A former Nova Scotian athlete who achieved success in both hockey and curling, Paul (Boots) Boutilier, has passed away at the age of 63. His death was confirmed by the NHL Alumni Association without disclosing the cause. Originally from Sydney, N.S., Boutilier was drafted by the New York Islanders in 1981 during their dominant era of winning four consecutive Stanley Cups, which made it challenging for him to secure a spot on the roster. Despite this, Boutilier remained optimistic and determined to showcase his skills.
During his career, Boutilier played nearly 300 NHL games, including stints with the New York Islanders and the Boston Bruins. Known for his humility and giving nature, Boutilier left a lasting impact on those around him. Bruce Rainnie, President and CEO of the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame, described him as a warm and welcoming individual who made everyone feel valued in his presence.
Off the ice, Boutilier pursued a diverse career path, transitioning into coaching roles in various hockey leagues and teaching international marketing at the University of Prince Edward Island. He also held leadership positions in the curling world, serving as the president of the World Curling Players Association and the executive director of the World Curling Tour. His dedication to both sports and his ability to adapt to different roles earned him respect from his peers.
Boutilier’s passion for curling stemmed from his family background, with his parents being avid competitors in the sport. He believed that curling and hockey shared similarities in terms of teamwork and individual accountability. Despite his accomplishments, Boutilier remained humble and focused on contributing positively to the sports community.
In his later years, Boutilier continued to be involved in coaching and mentoring young athletes, demonstrating his enduring commitment to sports development. His legacy extends beyond his athletic achievements, as he was instrumental in promoting women’s curling and negotiating broadcasting deals for major curling events. Paul Boutilier’s impact on the sports world and his dedication to fostering talent will be remembered by many.