19 | Name: Ronald 'Ron' Murphy
Home:
Jersey Retired: 2021 | Ron has been an enduring icon in the hockey community of the United Arab Emirates. As a player, he was a formidable competitor, and as a person, he was a cherished friend and mentor. Ron played a pivotal role in founding the Emirates Hockey League (EHL) and led his team, the Dubai Mighty Camels, to multiple championships, solidifying his legacy in the sport. A cornerstone of the Dubai hockey scene, Ron transformed the annual Dubai International Tournament—now known as the Murphy Cup—into the largest hockey tournament in the region, uniting players from around the globe. For many of us, this event is a cherished opportunity to reconnect with old friends and forge new friendships. Ron was also instrumental in developing hockey in Abu Dhabi. Through his guidance and support, our community grew from a handful of players into the thriving Abu Dhabi Hockey League we know today. We are forever grateful for his contributions, which have enriched not only our local community but the broader hockey landscape. In the wake of Ron's sudden passing, which has left us all in shock, the Abu Dhabi Scorpions Ice Hockey Club has decided to retire his jersey number. This gesture honors him, his family, and our profound respect for a true hockey legend. |
76 | Name: Ali Kaddas Al Romaithi
Home: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Jersey Retired: 2000 | Ali is the founding father of the Abu Dhabi Scorpions Ice Hockey Club and the Abu Dhabi Hockey League. As a young boy, he marveled at the Canadian expats gliding across the ice, and when invited to join, he quickly fell in love with the fastest game on earth. Since that moment, Ali has become more than just a friend to the Abu Dhabi hockey community; he is an irreplaceable part of our family and will forever remain so. With hockey friends around the globe, Ali frequently travels to participate in tournaments, making him a cherished addition to any roster. Over the years, he has been the go-to person for countless members of our community. His leadership, wisdom, and guidance have been invaluable, often helping others with personal matters, establishing businesses, and driving the growth of our hockey community. As an IIHF certified referee, the chairman of the Abu Dhabi Ice Sports Council (ADISC), and the Abu Dhabi Ice Sports Federation, Ali has played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of hockey in our region. Without his dedication, the Abu Dhabi Hockey League would not be what it is today, and many of us would not have had the opportunity to play the sport we love. In honor of this remarkable man and friend, we are proud to retire his number 76, a tribute to his birth year. From now on, this number will be reserved exclusively for the Godfather of Abu Dhabi hockey himself.
|
99 | Name: Wayne Gretzky
Home: Brantford, Ontario, Canada
Jersey Retired: 2024 | There isn't much more to say about the man who holds nearly every record in hockey. In his honor, the Abu Dhabi Hockey League and the Abu Dhabi Scorpions Ice Hockey Club have retired his number, joining many other leagues around the world in this tribute. We firmly believe that no player can ever truly do justice to The Great One, and therefore, no one will wear #99 again. This decision ensures that his legacy remains untarnished and respected. |
