If you wanted any indication of just how fast time flies, you need look no further than the full-circle moment that occurred at Miikka Kiprusoff's media availability in Calgary on Friday.
Just over 24 hours before the Flames will honour the legendary goaltender by raising his jersey to the rafters, the man from Turku, Finland was re-introduced to "Mini Kipper" — the young kid who became a fan-favourite during the Flames' run to the 2004 Stanley Cup Final by dressing up as his favourite goalie for every game.
Only this time, "Mini Kipper," also known as Brendan Peters, looked just slightly older than he did when he made regular appearances on TVs across North America.
Peters, who now paints goalie masks for a living, presented his idol with a custom mask he designed specifically for the Flames legend.
"It was an honour and a privilege to grow up watching you," Peters said as he presented Kiprusoff with the mask. "...Thank you so much for your dedication and everything you have done for this franchise. I will never forget you and neither will the fans of Calgary."
If this touching moment was any indication, it should be quite an emotional night on Saturday when Kiprusoff's No. 34 is raised to the roof. Even the Finnish netminder, who was known for his even-keeled nature in net, is worried that the emotions might get to him.
"I'll try not to cry," Kiprusoff said of the upcoming ceremony.
You can watch the full event honouring Kiprusoff on Sportsnet 360 and Sportsnet+ starting at 8:20 p.m. ET / 6:20 p.m. MT.
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