Babcock, Goyette, Smyth to be inducted into Order of Hockey in Canada

Hockey Canada announced Tuesday its 2018 class of inductees for the Order of Hockey in Canada, and headlining this year's honorees are Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock, three-time Olympic medalist Danielle Goyette, and former NHL All-Star Ryan Smyth.

The honor is awarded annually to individuals for their contribution to the sport of hockey north of the border.

"As players and coaches, this group has led the way on and off the ice, teaching and inspiring Canadian players at all levels of the game," said Hockey Canada CEO Tom Renney.

"To be selected as a distinguished honoree of the Order of Hockey in Canada is one of the most prestigious accomplishments one can receive in hockey in Canada, and this year's honorees are well-deserving of the recognition."

NEWS | Mike Babcock, Danielle Goyette, and Ryan Smyth to be inducted to the Order of Hockey in Canada on June 18 at the Hockey Canada Foundation's Gala & Golf event in London, Ont. https://t.co/gJIDj2CeBY pic.twitter.com/HQ73DM5zOx

- Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) January 23, 2018

The awards were first handed out in 2012, with past recipients including the likes of Jean Beliveau, Wayne Gretzky, Pat Quinn, and Mario Lemieux.

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