Ted Hampson, a long-time NHL scout known for his dedication and mentorship, is set to receive a prestigious accolade from the Western Canadian Professional Scouts’ Foundation. Hampson, who is being honored with a place on the foundation’s Wall of Honour, is celebrated for his significant contributions to hockey scouting throughout his extensive career.
Born in Toigo, Saskatchewan, Hampson played professionally across the NHL, WHA, and minor leagues until he was 44. His final playing stint was with the Central Hockey League’s Oklahoma City Stars, where he also served as a player-coach. After retiring from playing in 1981, Hampson transitioned into scouting, beginning with the NHL’s Central Scouting Bureau before taking on roles with the St. Louis Blues and later the Colorado Avalanche. His most recent role before his retirement was with the Vancouver Canucks, where he contributed significantly to their scouting efforts.
Hampson’s scouting career was marked by his keen eye for talent and his ability to mentor young scouts. Among his notable achievements, he was instrumental in recommending Brock Boeser as the Canucks’ first-round pick in the 2015 NHL Draft. This recommendation reflected his deep understanding of player potential and his influence on the team’s drafting decisions.
Shane Malloy, a hockey consultant, emphasized that effective scouting involves more than just finding top talent; it’s also about avoiding mistakes and mentoring others. Malloy highlighted Hampson’s role in guiding and improving younger scouts, noting that Hampson’s mentorship has been invaluable in shaping the next generation of scouting professionals. This sentiment is echoed by many who have worked with or known Hampson, including TSN’s Craig Button and long-time hockey agent Ben Hankinson, both of whom admire Hampson’s dedication and character.
Button described Hampson as diligent and purposeful in his work, while Hankinson praised him as a great human being. John Garrett, a former teammate of Hampson’s, recalled Hampson’s leadership and ability to keep a team together during challenging times. Garrett noted Hampson’s support for Boeser and his role as a captain on the Minnesota Fighting Saints, highlighting his perseverance and leadership qualities.
The Western Canadian Professional Scouts’ Foundation, founded by Ross Mahoney and Garth Malarchuk, aims to honor veteran scouts like Hampson who have made significant contributions to the game. The foundation’s mission is to recognize these individuals’ achievements, support charitable causes, and foster mentorship within the scouting community. Malloy emphasized that this type of peer recognition is highly valued and signifies the respect and gratitude of the scouting community.
Overall, Hampson’s career is a testament to the impact that dedicated and selfless individuals can have on the sport of hockey. His recognition by the Western Canadian Professional Scouts’ Foundation underscores his lasting influence and the high regard in which he is held by his peers.
