More than 1,000 fans lined up at the local arena in Neepawa on Thursday to meet a hometown hockey hero and Lord Stanley's famous cup.

Boston Bruins defenceman Shane Hnidy, who grew up in the western Manitoba town, brought the iconic Stanley Cup for a visit, posed for pictures, and signed autographs.

"I'm not going to lie, I was a little shaky when I grabbed the cup. I've had some pictures with it before, but to have Shane there as well, I just felt the heart pumping a little harder," said fan Brad McDonald.

Fans form a long line outside the distant red doors of the Yellowhead Arena in Neepawa, waiting to meet Bruins defenceman Shane Hnidy and the Stanley Cup. CBC

Ann Kuharski, who watched Hnidy grow up, said she is proud he included the community in his celebration.

"It means everything to all of us, when you can give back to people who've helped you along the way," she said.

A banner outside the Yellowhead Arena declares Neepawa as the proud home of Stanley Cup champion Shane Hnidy. CBC

Hnidy, who now lives in Winnipeg, said he was overwhelmed by the support in Neepawa.

"It's amazing, This is for them — the people who've been behind me. I've been fortunate to bring this back and share it with them," he said.

Hnidy's Bruins knocked off the Vancouver Canucks in seven games, 4-3, to win the NHL championship series in June.

The NHL has a tradition that is unique in professional sports, granting permission to each player on the Stanley Cup-winning team to spend at least 24 hours with the coveted cup, taking it wherever they want.

Last year, Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews brought the silver chalice to Winnipeg.