The area’s youngest hockey stars were on display Jan. 5 at the Rotary Spirit Centre at the 10-team Westlock Warriors Timbits Initiation Tournament.
Dazzling their biggest fans, 135 young skaters swapped out in three-minute shifts over the 48-minute games. The ice surface was cut in half to help players get a taste for the game and some much-needed practice on skates.
“Most of the kids are first-year players, but we do have a few second- and third-year players,” said organizer Michelle Hill. “We follow the Intro to Hockey guidelines from Hockey Alberta.”
Two Westlock teams were joined by squads from towns like Athabasca and Wabasca to show off their skills to their parents, grandparents and extended family. At the end of each game, players were awarded candy, medals and a select few were given T-shirts for exemplary play.
To keep selections of the heart and hustle and MVP awards fair, the opposing team’s coach selected the Top 2 players for each team.
“That way there’s no possibility of favouritism, it’s just from what they see,” she said. “In the younger levels of hockey it’s a lot more to do with fun and less for competition. It’s a great way for kids to dip their toes into the sport of hockey and see if they like it or not.”
Raffles were held throughout the day, with prizes ranging from Nintendo game systems, toys and even a full set of hockey gear.
Hill expressed her thanks to everyone who came out and especially to the 20 volunteers who helped run the tournament.’
“Our parents and many generous businesses donate to support our raffle year after year,” she said.
“Also a big thanks to all the other hockey associations that came out.”
