David Ayres will be a guest at next Friday’s Blades’ home game against Regina.

Ayres gained notoriety for back-stopping Carolina to a victory over Toronto last weekend as an emergency goaltender when both Hurricanes’ netminders were injured. Normally the Leafs practice goaltender and a Zamboni driver at Air Canada Centre, Ayres is also a kidney transplant recipient. It just so happens that next Friday’s game is Saskatoon’s W-H-L Suits Up to Promote Organ Donation contest. Following is the news release from the Blades…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SASKATOON, SK – The Saskatoon Blades are excited to welcome NHL back-up goaltender and kidney transplant recipient David Ayres to next Friday’s home game against the Regina Pats (7:00pm). Ayers will be on hand for the ceremonial puck drop, and will sign autographs and meet with fans during the game. This is in partnership with the Kidney Foundation and the WHL Suits Up to Promote Organ Donation, which will feature special-themed jerseys worn by the players.

Ayres received a kidney transplant from his mother in 2004, which ultimately helped him live out his dream with the Carolina Hurricanes. Last Saturday, Ayres was called into action as an emergency back-up goaltender and made eight saves for the Hurricanes, en route to a 6-3 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs. The 42-year-old turned into an overnight celebrity following the victory, appearing on numerous talk shows, including Good Morning America and The Today Show.