Peterborough's Iian Norrie, 51, has enjoyed his role as stick/water boy with the OHL's Peterborough Petes , dating back to an era when Dick Todd was a coach and Jeff Twohey was a trainer.

It is only fitting he will drop the puck during opening ceremonies of the game between the Petes and Ottawa 67's at the Memorial Centre at 7 p.m. Thursday.

It is Community Living Peterborough night and Norrie is a client of the agency, currently living in East City. The agency is a not-for-profit organization formed in 1953 that is dedicated to providing supports and services that promote the personal growth, full inclusion and community participation of people with an intellectual disability.

"I like meeting all the players and want to do a good job. I have liked all the guys. I don't have a favourite. I just like doing it and helping them."- Iain Norrie

Also scheduled to be on the ice with Norrie will be Community Living board of directors president Craig Adams, his daughter Hailey and Petes GM Dave Reid. Fans who buy tickets with the promotional code CLP can get a $16 regular bowl ticket of which $4 will go to the agency, which will have a booth set up in the main lobby.

According to many, Norrie hasn't missed a game during his time with the Petes.

"I like meeting all the players and want to do a good job," he said at Wednesday's practice. "I have liked all the guys. I don't have a favourite. I just like doing it and helping them."

As for dropping the puck and being part of the night Thursday, he said: "I will be a little nervous but I feel good. It's a big night. They (CLP) help me. It will be good."

Last season, Norrie received the Vince and Lottie Garvey Award at the Petes banquet for his off-ice contributions to the Petes over the years.

"I was happy and it meant a lot to me," he said. "It was a great night."

Norrie's contribution has been noticed by many.

"It has meant something for these players to see Iian do a job with his commitment level and enthusiasm and hasn't let any challenges get in his way," said Petes trainer Brian Miller, who appreciates all his help. "He is doing a great job and is dedicated to the team."

Petes assistant GM Aaron Garfat agreed and added: "He brings a light hearted atmosphere to the team. He is buddies with everybody and has a smile that brightens your day. No matter how your day has gone, he will lift you up. He talks to you all the time. He has been here for a long time and deserves this (dropping the puck) tomorrow night. We are pleased to help them (Community Living)."

Community Living Peterborough CEO Jack Gillan and other members were looking forward to the evening.

"Iian has been a valued member of the Petes organization for over 20 years, illustrating that all people have the ability to contribute to the community at all levels," Gillan stated.

Community Living communications officer Mary Bucholtz added: "Iian and the Petes area testament to inclusion at work and we are thrilled to be the organization of choice and part of it (Thursday night)."

She added proceeds will to go the Home of Our Own: 100 Homes for 100 People campaign and will facilitate housing options for 100 people currently on the supported living waiting list.