Andrew Ference joined the Edmonton Oilers in 2013 after winning a Stanley Cup with the Boston Bruins, bringing a wealth of experience to a young roster. Named captain in his first season, Ference was tasked with helping guide the Oilers through a transition period. His jersey quickly became a favorite among fans who appreciated his gritty style and community involvement. Wearing number 21, Ference embodied perseverance and provided steady leadership during challenging seasons.
Ference began his NHL career with the Pittsburgh Penguins before spending many years in Calgary and Boston. When he returned to his hometown of Edmonton, the veteran defenseman was eager to give back. His arrival signaled a new chapter for the organization, and supporters took pride in seeing a local product wear the Oilers crest. Fans purchasing his jersey saw it as a symbol of loyalty and commitment, traits Ference exemplified on and off the ice. His dedication to charitable initiatives made him a beloved figure around the city.
The look of the jersey itself blended classic Oilers styling with modern touches. Ference wore the traditional royal blue and orange, with his name proudly displayed above number 21. During his tenure, the team also introduced alternate uniforms, including a striking orange jersey that paid homage to the team’s early years. Whether he was sporting the standard or alternate design, Ference made it clear that representing Edmonton was an honor. Supporters who donned his jersey at games celebrated his work ethic and leadership qualities, establishing a special connection between player and fan.
Beyond the aesthetics, Ference’s jersey came to represent his passion for environmental causes. He founded the NHL’s “Green” initiative, encouraging teams to reduce their environmental impact. In Edmonton, he spearheaded efforts to promote biking as a way to get around the city. The defenseman often rode his bike to games and events, a habit that earned admiration from environmentally conscious fans. Wearing his jersey felt like supporting not only the Oilers but also a broader commitment to sustainability.
On the ice, Ference was known for his reliable defensive play and willingness to block shots. Though not a high-scoring defenseman, his contributions went beyond the stat sheet. He served as a mentor to younger players like Taylor Hall, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Jordan Eberle, helping them navigate the rigors of professional hockey. His jersey, then, took on another layer of meaning: it signified the bridging of generations within the franchise. Parents would point to Ference as an example of perseverance, telling their children that leadership is about effort as much as talent.
During a period when the Oilers struggled to make the playoffs, Ference’s commitment never wavered. He was a consummate professional who faced the media with honesty after difficult losses and celebrated with genuine enthusiasm when the team succeeded. Wearing his jersey allowed fans to connect with that sense of accountability. For many, Ference represented what it meant to stay positive through adversity. His presence offered hope that the Oilers would one day return to the heights enjoyed during the dynasty years.
Ference’s impact extended well beyond the rink. He launched community projects such as recycling initiatives and neighborhood cleanup campaigns. His efforts were often hands-on, and he encouraged teammates to participate. The defenseman built a reputation as one of the most approachable players in the NHL. Whether meeting fans at charity events or signing autographs after practice, he made a point to listen and engage. Owning his jersey became a badge of honor for those who valued his commitment to making Edmonton a better place.
As captain, Ference faced the challenge of uniting a young locker room. He set a tone of hard work and respect, two principles that resonated with fans who had endured years of rebuilding. The number 21 jersey thus came to symbolize perseverance amid change. Supporters cherished memories of Ference leading the team out onto the ice, his jersey flapping as he skated laps during warmups. Even when injuries limited his playing time later in his career, his leadership remained crucial, and the jersey remained a fixture in the crowd.
In October 2016, the Oilers celebrated their rich heritage with an outdoor Alumni game at Commonwealth Stadium. Ference, though sidelined by injury, participated in the festivities and helped honor the storied players who came before him. He took time to meet fans, sign autographs, and share stories about what it meant to represent Edmonton. The event underscored his deep connection to the franchise and the city. For many supporters, seeing him stand alongside legends in his Oilers jersey cemented his place in team history.
When Ference eventually announced his retirement, his impact on the community remained clear. The Oilers recognized him for his dedication, and fans continued to wear his jersey as a sign of appreciation. Many looked back on his tenure as a pivotal moment in the franchise’s evolution. His contributions helped lay the groundwork for future success, instilling a culture of professionalism that players like Connor McDavid would later build upon. The lasting popularity of his jersey is a testament to the respect he earned from teammates and supporters alike.
Today, Ference’s Oilers jersey serves as a reminder of his unique legacy. It represents the values of perseverance, environmental responsibility, and community engagement. For those who still proudly wear it, the jersey evokes memories of a player who led by example and inspired others to do the same. In many ways, Ference embodied the spirit of Edmonton: hardworking, resilient, and deeply connected to the community. His jersey stands as a lasting tribute to that spirit and the impact one person can make on a team and a city.
This page is preserved as part of the HockeyOilersShop.com archives, celebrating the players who have shaped the franchise. Andrew Ference’s jersey remains a cherished piece of memorabilia for fans who appreciate everything he brought to the team. While the site no longer sells jerseys, we continue to share these stories so that future generations can understand the history and heart behind each player’s time in Edmonton.