Scott Niedermayer has been awarded the Freedom of the City, Cranbrook's highest honour.

“Scott played a very integral role in leading the Canadian men to Olympic gold and that win adds a significant chapter to his storied hockey career,” said Mayor Scott Manjak in a press release. “The accomplishments that Scott has reached during his career are beyond impressive — it is truly legendary. On behalf of the entire City of Cranbrook, I want to extend my congratulations to Scott and the rest of Team Canada. It is a very proud moment for the City.”

Niedermayer recently led the Canadian Olympic men's hockey team to gold as its captain.

This is his second gold medal and adds to his many other accomplishments throughout his career.

He has won four Stanley Cups (three with the New Jersey Devils and one with the Anaheim Ducks) and has won almost every major championship in hockey, including the World Championships, the World Cup, the World Junior Championships, and the Memorial Cup.

City Council voted to bestow the award on Niedermayer at the end of the meeting, when Coun. Liz Schatschneider made the motion.

Residents are invited to express their congratulations to Niedermayer's Olympic success by signing a special guest book available at Cranbrook City Hall from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Monday to Friday.

The ceremony at which Niedermayer will be presented with the Freedom of the City is being planned and will be held at a time convenient to Niedermayer's playing schedule with the NHL's Anaheim Ducks.

Once a date has been determined, the public will be notified.