ARCOLA
Over the years, many communities have held minor hockey day tournaments and Arcola is no different.
Arcola's latest Minor Hockey Day was Dec. 16, which was different from traditional events hosted in January or February. The committee decided they would hold it before Christmas to avoid conflicting dates with other towns. Hockey season for the minor leagues begins in mid-November and lasts until March, so this was a good way to start the hockey season for 2023-2024.
The Arcola Co-op sponsored $250 and gave each athlete a big freezie after the game. Arcola Minor Hockey, FSK Construction Services, CEDA, T4 Farms, John Lees, Laurie James, Redvers Ag. and Three Buffalo Workshop sponsored a raffle table of prizes.
Carlee Annis with the committee said they are very thankful for the sponsors who made this day possible.
The first game was the Arcola U7's facing off against Carlyle. The eager young players tried hard to show their skills to their families and friends.
Arcola coaches Michelle Cundall and Curtis Johnston said they enjoy coaching the younger kids as they are so fun to teach. The youngest player on the team is four years old.
Next up was the U9 team also playing against a Carlyle, and the kids played hard trying to win as well.
A lunch break took place with the canteen open all day.
The female U18 A Carlyle Wildcats took to the ice to face off against Swift Current later on. Women displayed their speed and ability to score within a brief period with a quick goal.
Once the game was over and the Zamboni had the ice cleaned up, the U11 Arcola team faced the Carnduff Red Devils, which was another great game played by the youth.
Up next was the U13 age group, meeting up with Estevan Wolves - another game of skills and great hockey.
To finish off the day, everyone was asked to come back and support the Arcola U18 men which faced Milestone in a fast-paced and exciting game.
Throughout the day, a progressive 50/50 draw took place and Colleen Fornwald was the lucky winner.
Annis was pleased with the great turnout.
Events like this take a lot of work from volunteers, organizing it, sponsors, supporting, parents, bringing their kids, and coaches, instructing the players all about hockey.
It is a team effort which brings enjoyment to all those that attend.
