ROGERS HOMETOWN HOCKEY IN LINDSAY
Hometown
Hockey made its way to Lindsay this past weekend, October 23-25. It was a fun celebration
of free games, skills competitions, and entertainment, and a time to honour local
hockey players past and present. People of all ages and players of all levels of
hockey, as well as folks new to the game, got to try out some hockey activities
and enjoy the free food, prizes, and giveaways.
The Central
Ontario Wolves were invited to participate in the weekend, along with several other
local hockey associations. Although most Wolves teams were on the road over the
weekend, many Wolves players participated in several events.
The U10 Wolves hit the ice Saturday afternoon against the Quinte Red Devils on pad 1 at the Lindsay Recreation Complex. Both teams lined up for introductions and the playing of O Canada, the game was professionally announced, and Rogers Sportsnet was there to capture the action on camera. Although the team was not victorious in score, they had a great time. Even Wolves Mascot, Howler, made an appearance! Special thank you to LMHA for switching ice pads to maximize the experience for this eager young team.
After cheering on the U10 team, the U12 team hit the Desjardins ball hockey rink for some team bonding and 3 on 3 action in a fun game of blue vs. white. The players were definitely warmed up for their scheduled practice to follow!
U12 player Brayden McIvor was randomly selected by Hometown Hockey to represent the Central Ontario Wolves in the outdoor shootout competition that took place on Sunday afternoon versus 3 other local players, who were also randomly chosen to represent their hockey associations. The four participants were competing for a chance to win $3000 for the not-for-profit organizations of their choice. After netting all 5 shots in the elimination round, Brayden moved onto the playoff round in sudden victory style format. Competition intensified when the finalists were told they had to shoot backhand only, and in the end, Brayden was the clear champion! After completing a victory lap, Brayden was presented with a giant cheque for SickKids Foundation, with specific allocation to the Grace Bowen Tribute Fund (his not-for-profit of choice), and he also received a trophy. Congratulations Brayden, you represented the Wolves very well!
On Monday evening, many braved the rainy and cold weather for the outdoor viewing party of the live broadcast of the Toronto Maple Leafs vs the Carolina Hurricanes game, with highlights of local hometown hockey heroes and alumni from Lindsay and the City of Kawartha Lakes area, including by not limited to, Vince Dunn and Jeff Beukeboom. Many local musical artists were also celebrated, as well as the local community and landscape. Following the game, U18 Player Karter Robertson, along-side Lindsay Lynx Player Emma L., had the exciting task of selecting the three starts of the game, followed by live interviews with Ron MacLean and Tara Slone. Both Karter and Emma did amazing jobs of sharing their touching stories. Karter, you are an inspiration and an excellent representative of the Central Ontario Wolves!
Thank you to Rogers Sportsnet Hometown Hockey for shining the spotlight on Lindsay, and to the City of Kawartha Lakes, and all the hockey organizations and volunteers who came together to provide such an amazing experience for so many to enjoy this once in a lifetime opportunity.