EDMONTON, AB — July 1, 2025 — In a heartwarming reunion that has the entire hockey world buzzing, Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid rediscovered the man who quietly kept his elementary school spotless—and learned, to his astonishment, that the dedicated janitor is still on the job at 79 years old.
A Chance Encounter in the Hallway
It all began last week when McDavid visited St. Anthony’s Elementary—the very school he attended before dazzling scouts with his prodigious talent. Walking the familiar corridors, McDavid was greeted by the unmistakable squeak of a freshly mopped floor and the sight of Mr. Frank Delaney, the school’s longtime custodian, expertly buffing the linoleum.
“I looked at him and thought, ‘That can’t be Frank—he must have retired decades ago!’” McDavid recalled with a laugh. “But sure enough, I heard him call out, ‘Connor? Is that you?’ It was like stepping back in time.”
Over Five Decades of Dedication
Frank Delaney joined St. Anthony’s custodial staff in 1966, just a few years before McDavid was born. Over 50 years later, he still arrives at 6 AM every weekday, armed with mop, bucket, and an unwavering commitment to the students and teachers he’s served through generations.
“I’ve seen families come and go, watched little kids grow up and some even grow old,” Delaney said. “Keeping this place clean has been my joy—and my routine.”
Staff and alumni say Delaney’s presence has become woven into the school’s identity. “He’s like part of the building,” explained principal Maria Santos. “Nobody thought he’d ever slow down—just part of Frank’s remarkable work ethic.”
McDavid’s Spontaneous Tribute
Moved by the discovery, McDavid organized a surprise assembly on Friday morning. As students and teachers gathered in the gymnasium, McDavid himself presented Delaney with a signed Oilers jersey—number 97—and a $10,000 donation to a local educational charity in Delaney’s name.
“Frank deserves this and so much more,” McDavid told the crowd. “He taught me that hard work and kindness matter just as much as any hockey skill.”
Emotions ran high as Delaney, visibly moved, accepted the gifts. “I never imagined this,” he said, tears welling. “I just did my job. This is for all the years the community has given me.”
A Lasting Legacy
Word of the reunion spread quickly on social media, prompting former students—now parents and even grandparents—to share stories of Delaney’s thoughtful gestures: plucking a lost toy from the trash, staying late to help a teacher set up for a fundraiser, quietly donating to families in need.
For Connor McDavid, the encounter was a powerful reminder that heroes come in many forms. “We talk about teamwork and leadership in hockey,” he said, “but Frank has shown it in real life for decades. It’s an honor to recognize him.”
As Mr. Delaney returns to his duties—bucket in hand and floor gleaming once more—he does so with the gratitude of an entire community behind him, and the affection of one of hockey’s brightest stars. And at 79 years old, his legacy of service continues, inspiring everyone who walks the hallways of St. Anthony’s to work with heart, just like Frank.
