Huskies retire late athlete's jersey

It was an emotional whirlwind for Stephanie Vause as she was presented the game jerseys belonging toher late fiance, former University of Saskatchewan Huskies athlete Cody Smuk on Saturday night.

• Former Huskies hockey player Cody Smuk dies after battling cancer
• Saskatoon groom battling cancer wins dream wedding giveaway

Smukdied of cancer in June. Two months later, Vause was alerted by coach Dave Adolph that Smuk would be commemorated in a special way.

I'm just so proud of him.- Stephanie Vause

"All of his alumni came and stood on the ice for him," said Vause. "They officially retired number24."

Smuk's family was also at thespecial ceremony that retired the jersey. It took place at Rutherford Rink prior to Saturday night's game.

"[Cody's family and I] were all nervous and sad at the same time. But now we can go into that rink and it holds a special place in our hearts," Vause said.

"We will continue to come out to the games and cheer on the Huskies knowing that Cody is always there supporting as well," she added.

With overwhelming gratitude for the Huskie organization, Vause said she was happy to see the team warming up in Smuk's number as a tribute.

A banner now hangs in the rink in honour of Smuk that reads, "We all play the Cody Smuk way."

"That quote is so true because he was a grinder and he worked so hard and that's the way he was in life as well," said Vause. "I'm just so proud of him."