The Impact paid tribute to his significant contribution in the club’s history and in the development of soccer in the province of Quebec. He will act as ambassador for the club during some community-related and promotional activities throughout the province.
“If the team has success today, it’s also due to the efforts and sacrifices of those who preceded us,” said Montreal Impact president Joey Saputo. “It’s thanks to players like Grant who were devoted to soccer, under circumstances that were at times difficult, that the team has today a soul and an identity.”
“It’s a huge honour for me,” said Grant Needham, who is now colour commentator for Montreal Impact games on the English radio station CJAD 800. “I am being recognized for the efforts that I put in the game from 1993 to 1998. All the years I played, I gave body and soul on the field. I always did the best I could. To play in Montreal, my hometown, has been awesome. I had the opportunity to play here with a first-rate organization. Everything was great in Montreal. I lived so many things with this team that I will remember for the rest of my life. Yes, there were ups and downs, but I have no regrets at all. I loved every second of my career.”
Grant Needham was a member of the Impact’s inaugural edition, in 1993. He helped the team win regular season titles in 1995 (17-7 record), 1996 (21-6) and 1997 (21-7). Needham was the club’s leading scorer in 1993 (6-3-15). He was chosen to the First All-Star Team in 1995. He is currently fifth in club history in goals (19) and game-winning goals (9), and is sixth in points (52) and assists (14).
During the press conference, it was also announced that Sony, who joined the Impact as a partner for the next four years, would also be involved with the Impact Builders.
“Sony is excited to sponsor and team up with the Impact Builders,” said Claude Chartrand, Regional Sales Manager – Eastern Canada, of Sony Canada. “These Impact ambassadors are highly respected within the soccer community, having played a determining role in developing the team and sport in the region. We are proud to support and applaud them, as well as the Montreal Impact, for their continued effort in promoting soccer in Quebec.”
Lloyd Barker, Patrick Diotte, Rudy Doliscat and John Limniatis were the first four players to be named Builders, on May 10, 2006.
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Source: Patrick Vallée, Montreal Impact
Info: 514-328-3668 (ext. 27)
