2026 Builder Inductee - Grace Harvey

 

Grace Harvey (Small), was born in London and relocated to Wallaceburg at age four. She graduated from Wallaceburg District Secondary School in 1968 and obtained her DSW degree two years later.

In 1966, some girls discussed the idea of playing hockey in the same way as the boys did. Grace had the nerve to ask the arena manager (Harold Ribson) if the girls could have ice time to play hockey. The arena manager said if they could get enough girls to play then he would give ice time. Within a week, they had a coach, general manager

and a full team. They became the Wallaceburg Hornettes.

Harvey's love of hockey came from watching her brother Wayne play hockey. The Hornettes used the men’s Hornets jerseys and figure skates to play. Their first activity was in 1967 was the inaugural Lipstick Tournament. Grace Harvey endorsed the lips on the mini stick that represented the tournament.

Harvey played in the tournament in her last two years of high school. Recently, Harvey was featured in Ian Kennedy's book, “Ice In Their Veins" which highlights the growth of women's hockey. The book features an interview and picture of Harvey.