SportsXpress Chatham/Kent Nov/Dec 2017

YOUR COMMUNITY SPORTS CONNECTION

Chatham-Kent & Area Edition

November/December 2017 Volume 4 Issue 6

Andy Fantuz – awareness fo Raising r dia imaging equip gnostic ment in CK See page 11

Curling is for Kids too!

See page 7

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Sarnia Sting Hockey 2017-18 Regular Season Schedule DAY OF WEEK

Friday Sunday

Friday Wednesday

Friday Sunday

Friday Saturday Wednesday Saturday Thursday Sunday Wednesday

Friday

Friday

Friday Saturday Saturday Sunday Monday Saturday Sunday Sunday Saturday Wednesday

DATE November 10th November 12th November 17th November 22nd December 1st December 3rd December 8th December 9th December 13th December 16th December 28th December 31st January 3rd January 5th January 12th January 19th February 3rd February 10th February 11th February 19th February 24th February 25th March 4th March 10th March 14th

OPPONENT Sault Ste Marie Greyhounds Owen Sound Attack Windsor Spitfires London Knights North Bay Battalion Oshawa Generals Erie Otters Peterborough Petes Saginaw Spirit Flint Firebirds Windsor Spitfires London Knights Saginaw Spirit Flint Firebirds Windsor Spitfires Sault Ste Marie Greyhounds London Knights Niagara Icedogs Sudbury Wolves Saginaw Spirit Erie Otters Flint Firebirds Owen Sounds Attack Guelph Storm Kitchener Rangers

For tickets call 519.541.1717 or visit sarniasting.com

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 Chatham-Kent & Area Edition

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sportsfiles

Sarnia Sting Continue Record Year Written by SportsXpress

It has been a record start to the year for the Sarnia Sting franchise. With a 12-1-0-0 record and 11 straight wins, the Sting continue to dominate their opponents on the ice. Clearly gold is the perfect team colour.

On Wednesday, October 25th, the Canadian Hockey League announced week six of the CHL Top 10 rankings for the 2017-2018 season, selected by a panel of NHL scouts, with your Sarnia Sting at number one.

In October, players Jordan Kyrou and Adam Ruzicka held their place in the top three league leaders for points, while goalie Justin Fazio holds the second highest save percentage in the OHL. The Sting have a reputation for developing players who go on to the pros, 45 of which have been drafted to the NHL. Players such as Steven Stamkos, and local Travis Konecny once spent many hours in the Progressive Auto Sales Arena.

Coming up in the new year, the Sarnia Sting will honour Steven Stamkos on January 12th when they retire the number 91 jersey. Ticket sales open October 30th and are sure to sell fast!

Only an hour from Chatham, the Progressive Sales Arena offers locals a chance to have some family fun while watching the future of hockey.

Join the community and come watch a great game on the ice! Tickets can be purchased online or by calling our box office at (519) 541-1717. Don’t delay..

Come see what the buzz is about.

03 | Sarnia Sting Continue Record Year 07 | Curling Season is Around the Corner 08 | Kyra Joseph Turns Passion into Success 11 | Andy Fantuz Helps Raise Money for Hospital Equipment 17 | Curtis McCallum – Give it Your All, All the Time!

18 | I CAN! YOU CAN! WE CAN! EIGHT COUNT CHEER!

fromthesidelines

04 | Letter from the Publisher 06 | Welcome to ICU Auto Glass 10 | Blazin BBQ Wins Award for Inclusivity 14 | Getting the Community Involved with Lacrosse 16 | CK Special Populations Provides Amazing Opportunities

behindthebench

04 | Aaron Rodgers: Titletown MVP

by Rob Reischel 13 | Winter Programs on Their Way

sportshistory

05 | Chatham-Kent is Home to Many Great Hockey Triumphs

health&fitness

09 | Local Competitors Looking Ahead to Provincial Winter 55+ Games 15 | Take Your Workout Outdoors

asktheexpert

12 | The Right Workout

sports@school

18 | CCS Takes Part in the Terry Fox Run

SportsXpress is partnering with YourTV to bring you athlete interviews.

Send us your idea today!

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Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

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behindthebench Titletown MVP by Rob Reischel

Network

TM

Aaron Rodgers:

Submitted by Kate McCullough

Learn about two-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers’ rise to legendary fame as the Greenbay Packers star quarterback. With dozens of colour photos and the insider scoop on how the star athlete won a Superbowl and Superbowl MVP award, this book is sure to please all NFL fans.

Available at a Chatham-Kent Public Library branch near you or through our website, www.ckpl.ca.

Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cksportsxpress Read Us Online PUBLISHER Rebecca Reimer 519.436.4990 rebecca@cksportsxpress.com EDITOR Lauren Perry GRAPHIC DESIGN Debbie Dunmall ddunmall@gmail.com

www.ckpl.ca

fromthesidelines letterfromthepublisher As we come up on the end of the year, we take time to remember those who have fought for our freedoms.

We take time November 11 to honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and we pray for those who are still on the front lines, and for their families, who make a sacrifice too.

May the holidays bring you cheer and may you be reminded of what really matters, material things fade, but memories are always cherished. I hope you make some new ones this Christmas!

We are so excited to launch a sports segment with YourTV Chatham-Kent in November and hope you will send us your recommendations for future shows.

We are also working on developing new ways for you to reach your audience and look forward to sharing them with you soon. We continue to be YOUR SportsXpress, open submission and ready to hear from you.

Happy Holidays Rebecca Reimer, Publisher CK SportsXpress rebecca@cksportsxpress.com 519.436.4990

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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2017

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

CONTRIBUTORS Liz Collins, Dr. Brian Sides, Gary Patterson, Erin Burnett, Don Hector, Sharon Smith, Jody Noah, Barry C. Yetman, Jamie Knight, Candice Jeffrey, Samantha McFadden, Deb Veccia, Rob Abbey, Jeff Armstead, Canadian Press, Daniel Hawkins, Wendy Smith, Matt Jenkins, Kathleen Meyers, Curtis McCallum, Andy Fantuz, SportsXpress Team and other sports enthusiasts PHOTOGRAPHERS Liz Collins, Cindy McFadden, Don MacLennan (Captured Moments), Linda Wolting, Jody Noah, Jamie Knight, Sarah Ytsma, Rob Abbey, Sarnia Sting, Michael Wilson, Allan McCallum, ODEN, SportsXpress Team and members of various local sports organizations and community sports fans AFFILIATES Cambridge Chatham-Kent London Mississauga Waterloo Windsor

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress is an independently owned and operated member of the SportsXpress Network Editorial Contributions: Submissions are welcome from writers, photographers, athletes, coaches and individuals. Please contact the publisher. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. Contributors are responsible for obtaining all approvals for publication of photos and content prior to submission. All submissions may not be used. We may edit, publish, reproduce, distribute and archive submissions in any form or medium without any compensation. We are not responsible for lost or damaged submissions. Contents copyrighted. All rights reserved.

Reproduction or transmission of any article, photograph or artwork in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher is prohibited. Chatham-Kent SportsXpress is published six times per year. Chatham-Kent SportsXpress is committed to protecting your privacy as our customer. We may collect personal information only if it is required for the proper functioning of our business and only share this information with our business partners. The editors and contributors who write for ChathamKent SportsXpress attempt to provide accurate and useful information and commentary. However the editors, contributors and Chatham-Kent SportsXpress cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. We assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any readers based on the information provided.

sportshistory

Chatham-Kent is Home to Many Great Hockey Triumphs Submitted by Gary Patterson, Photo credit SportsXpress

The conversations that float through coffee shops and restaurants will hit many topics but they will always touch on the local hockey scene. There will be second guessing of coaches, talk of the one local kid that should be on the team but isn’t, and talk about a hot goalie or a skilled forward but the common thread will be the local Jr. Hockey team.

Chatham-Kent is blessed with four teams in the Provincial Junior Hockey League, The old Great Lakes Jr. C League, as well as one in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League.

South CK is represented by the Blenheim Blades and Wheatley Sharks.

The Blenheim Golden Blades entered the old Border Cities League in the inaugural 1968-69 season and stayed around when the league became the tiered Great Lakes Jr. Hockey League for the 1970-71 season. The Blades won

the Jr.B League Championship in 1969, the Jr.D League Championship in 1970 and were league finalists in 1973, 1975, and 1995. Todd Warriner, Ryan Jones, Bob Gryp, Chris Allen, and Matt Martin have all moved from the Blades organization to the NHL as players. Dave Torrie has moved through the management side of the ranks and is a scout with the LA Kings.

The Wheatley Sharks are the new kids on the block as they hit the ice for the 1995 season. The Sharks have made it to the championship series five times including 2002, 2003, 2006, 2011, and 2013.

In North CK the Dresden Kings and Wallaceburg Lakers are the teams that bring each community together.

The Kings are the talk of Dresden as they were the Jr. C Champs in 1968, 1969, 1971, 1984, and 2004 including an OHA title in 1971. The Kings made it to the league finals in 1970, 1972, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1987, 2005, and 2009. Dave Kelly, Brian Wiseman, and Shawn Babcock

moved on to play in the NHL from the Kings organization.

The Lakers made their debut in 1975 and won the Great Lakes title in 1999.

Wallaceburg finished up as league finalists in 1983, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2008, and 2010. Brad Staubitz played for the Lakers and went on to play 230 NHL games.

The Chatham Maroons have a storied history and now play in the Greater Ontario Jr. Hockey League. The Maroons first season was 1959 and have racked up 13 league championships, including provincial titles in 1970 and 1999.

The Maroons have sent 15 players on to the pro ranks with the most notable being Ken Houston, Brian Wiseman, Andy Delmore, and Kevin Westgarth.

No matter the town they represent Jr. Hockey teams are the lifeblood of a community as they give every minor hockey players something to strive for and dream about. Each team is the pride of their community and allows fans to lose their troubles for a few hours a week as they cheer on the young men and live or die with each goal. The Canadian fabric is weaved with these threads that set our towns and our country apart from everyone else.

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fromthesidelines

Welcome to ICU Auto Glass Submitted by SportsXpress and ICU Auto Glass, Photo credit Michael Wilson

ICU Auto Glass was launched in 2011 and has grown from its first small shop on Lacroix St. to its current location at 258 Grand Ave in Chatham where it is conveniently located across from Goodwill. ICU Auto Glass has occupied their current location for the past four years and the business continues to grow and thrive. Starting a business is a daunting proposition and the Wilsons have been able to get through the crucial first five years and continue to grow. Owners Michael and Janine Wilson are a large part of the reason for this success. Both have business backgrounds and know that focusing on the “customer service” aspect of business is what separates them from the pack and puts them head and shoulders above the competition.

You can feel the positive attitude and attentiveness to the customers needs the second you walk into their clean, bright, and comfortable showroom.

“Hello, what can we fix for you today?” is the greeting you will receive upon arrival, and the Wilsons live up to that statement. Every type of Auto Glass repair is available there, from stone chips repair to windshield and rear glass/door glass replacement to mirrors and leak issues, they do it all.

As Mike says “We started out like any other business, with zero customers.

In our six years of operation we can proudly say that 80% of our customers today are either repeat customers, referrals from current customers or from Chatham-Kent’s Insurance brokers. This is a tribute to us as a business. When you can develop this type of customer loyalty, it shows people trust you and are satisfied with what you are offering.”

Janine, who does the invoicing and insurance claims end of the business, tells us that competition is fierce as “the big guys” as she refers to the corporate chain stores, “own the glass manufacturing plants, the glass distribution facilities, the insurance claims centres and the installation facilities. This makes it very challenging for independent business like ours to compete, but we do, and we will continue to do our best to provide exceptional service as that is what keeps us in the game. Remember, when it comes to insurance claims, you, the customer have the choice of where you get your car repaired, choose independent, support small business.”

ICU Auto Glass is truly a Chatham-Kent success story and a business that the Wilsons are very proud of, and it really shows.

complete auto glass repair and replacement services http://www.icuautoglass.com/ Family Owned & Operated Insurance Approved

258 Grand Avenue West Chatham 519-352-4646

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Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

Mobile Service - “WE PICK UP AND DELIVER ANY VEHICLE, ANY TIME (in city of Chatham)” Seniors and Veterans Discounts

sportsfiles

Curling Season is Around the Corner Submitted by Rob Abbey and Deanna Bullard, Photo credit Rob Abbey With the winter olympics fast approaching the interest in curling will rise, especially in our local youth.

Fortunately, our area has four curling clubs, one of which, is the Chatham Granite Club.

Not only do the curlers meet new people, but they will be challenged by the different ice conditions at each club.

The Chatham Granite Club has been in operation since 1862 and has developed a fun and healthy program for youth. The junior curlers at the club meet on Sunday afternoon from 1-3pm. During this time, the juniors are taught the basics of curling techniques, strategy, etiquette, and safety while having fun and making friends.

Curling has long been a social sport.

The teams that compete against each other sit together after the game as friends. It is no different with the club’s junior curlers.

To encourage the building of new friendships, sportsmanship, and respect, the youth have the option to

will be challenged by the different ice conditions at each club.

The Chatham Granite Club also offers programs such as the annual turkey curl, Hit, Tap, Draw competitions, and the annual family bonspiel. These events reinforce sportsmanship, respect, and fun, which are definitely key components at this club!

Curling is an inexpensive sport.

The Chatham Granite Club provides everything a junior curler needs – brooms, grippers, sliders, and of course the rocks! Curlers only need to dress warmly and protective head gear is suggested. The supportive and well trained coaches are eager to teach those interested about a game that they will be able to play throughout their lives.

For more information go to www. chathamgraniteclub.org.

participate in friendly bonspiels at five area clubs. Not only do the curlers meet new people, but they

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Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

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sportsfiles

Kyra Joseph Turns Passion into Success SportsXpress, Jody Noah, Barry C. Yetman , Photo credit Jody Noah Kyra Joseph, a resident of Delaware Nation was named the Top Pitcher in the Qualifying round by Softball Canada at the Canadian Championships in Brampton, Ontario last August. She is a member of the LaSalle Athletics Novice Girls team.

Kyra secured the top pitcher position striking out 33 batters in 18.1 innings pitched with an ERA of 0.38 and a batting average of 0.385. The qualifying round consisted of two games a day from Wednesday to Friday in which the team finished with three wins and three losses.

Their record put them in the B pool play where they lost their first game in the 11th inning to Palmerston.

To get to the Canadian Championships, the Athletics won their PWSA qualifying tournament in Corunna, Ontario and placed third in the PWSA Grand Championships held in LaSalle. Both their semi-final games in the PWSA Grand Championships went into extra innings and they squeaked out the win to secure a trip to the Canadian Championships.

“Kyra has grown up around ball. She has two older brothers who have always played on travel teams so she was constantly on or around the ball diamond throwing a ball around. I am often asked how she got into pitching…well one day while she was playing house league in Chatham, the regular pitcher was away and she was asked to go in. She agreed

to go in and pitch and started throwing strikes, at a pretty good speed for a six year old. She was excited about it and well we just nurtured it! She amazes me on the mound and I couldn’t be more proud of her and her team!” Explained Kyra’s mom” This sport has clearly been a huge part of Kyra’s life. She previously played with the Chatham Golden Eagles softball association and has participated in the Team Canada Spring Training at Fieldhouse Athletics. Kyra has also been involved in winter training in LaSalle and in Michigan at Premier Sports which begins in November and the season starts in May. LaSalle Athletics were the Grand Valley League Champions, Halton Hills May Classic Tournament Champs, and finalists at the Annual Niagara Falls Teddy Bear Tourney. She will be playing next season with LaSalle Athletics and heading to Orlando, Florida in July to participate in the Fastpitch World Series at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

Kyra’s coach, Barry C. Yetman, adds, “Kyra Joseph joined the LaSalle Athletics this past season. The team was well established over the past five years and had achieved increasing successes each and every year.

Kyra had an immediate positive impact on the team by exhibiting a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, a desire to improve her skills, and exuding all

the positive attributes of being a good teammate. She was welcomed by her coaches and fellow teammates and immediately fit in. Her sense of humour, her laugh, and her beaming smile are always welcomed and well known within our dugout.

Kyra and her family committed her fully to the specialized training she received in the off season and throughout the season. She worked incredibly hard all year long and became an exemplary pitcher and power hitter by the end of our season. Her coaches and her teammates came to rely on her throughout the many challenges we faced. She achieved great success at the Provincial and Canadian levels of play. All of the many sacrifices made by Kyra and her family throughout the year paid off in Kyra being named the Top Pitcher at Softball Canada’s Canadian Championships in Brampton, Ontario this past August.

The future is very bright for this wonderful athlete as her passion for the sport continues to grow. We are very happy to have her as a member of our great team.”

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Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

health&fitness

Local Competitors Looking Ahead to Provincial Winter 55+ Games Submitted by Don Hector, Photo credit Don MacLennan (Captured Moments) A series of play down events will be held in the Chatham-Kent area during March, 2018 as qualifiers for the 2019 Provincial 55+ Winter Games. These games are offered every two years at different host communities across Ontario. The 2019 games will be held in Huntsville, Ontario.

Curling, prediction skating, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, and ice hockey are some of the events that are being scheduled locally to determine who goes on to this provincial event.

In addition to Provincial Games qualifiers, local competitors are looking forward to participating in a number of other active and mentally challenging events in the Chatham-Kent area during October and November. These events are offered for fun, friendship, and fitness.

Over ten of these events will be offered at

a variety of venues across ChathamKent. These include Euchre (Merlin), Contract Bridge (Thamesville), Scrabble (Paincourt), Carpet Bowling (Chatham), 5 pin Bowling (Ridgetown), 10 Pin Bowling (Chatham), 6- Handed Pepper (Tilbury), Cribbage (Bothwell), Duplicate

Bridge (Leamington), and Bid Euchre (Ridgetown). Schedules and registrations forms are available at all 11 Adult Activity Centres in Chatham-Kent or by contacting Don Hector, Chatham-Kent 55+ Games Coordinator.

For more information on local Chatham-Kent 55+ games and events go to:

www.ckseniorgames.com Media inquiries or further information please contact: Don Hector, Chatham-Kent 55+ Games Coordinator Email: ckseniorgames@gmail.com • Telephone: 226 881-2453

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fromthesidelines

Blazin BBQ Wins Award for Inclusivity Written by SportsXpress, Photo credit ODEN October is Disability Employment Awareness Month. The movement is increasing awareness of the positive outcomes of hiring those with disabilities in Canada. According to www.ndeam.ca, “90% of persons with disabilities rate average or better on job performance than their non disabled colleagues. 86% rate average or better on attendance. 98% of persons with disabilities rate average or better in work safety than their non disabled colleagues.”

Wendy Smith, local Goodwill Workforce Projects Coordinator, says “Inclusivity is critical in the workplace as it creates diversity and empowers all staff to reach a new level of understanding and acceptance.”

When Matt Jenkins hired Daniel Hawkins, he was aware of his disability, but he did not realize how much his restaurant would benefit from hiring him.

“

Everyone here has accepted me, I’ve

”

never felt judged. I’m part of the family now, this job has been great for me!

In an industry that sees employees come and go quite frequently, especially kitchen staff, Daniel plans to stay long term. “He is punctual and dedicated,” says Jenkins. “He is working in prep right now, and working towards a line position, he’s learning and taking on more responsibility every day. He is a part of our Blazin BBQ family.”

On October 12th, Goodwill Industries and the Ontario Disability Employment Network (ODEN) held a cash mob at Blazin BBQ to honour their efforts to create an inclusive workplace. “We chose to honour Blazin BBQ as they were very accommodating for our candidate and really worked with him and us to ensure success,” say Smith, “They were willing to adjust their routine to fit Dan in and didn’t treat him any differently than anyone else in the kitchen.”

For Dan, this has been a chance to get back on his feet. “I haven’t worked for a few years and I was trying to get back into a hospitality position. Everyone here has accepted me, I’ve never felt judged. I’m part of the family now, this job has been great for me!”

Owner, Matt Jenkins, takes pride in this and he challenges other local businesses to do the same. “Our community is worth investing in… Contact Goodwill or Community Living, it can help your business, and you can help someone in the process.

Together we can all make a difference!”

This is only one of the ways Blazin BBQ gives back to the community. They have raised over $175,000 for community organizations since they opened their doors. For more info on how Blazin BBQ can help your organization raise funds, contact them today!

Blazin BBQ has helped raise over $175,000 for Chatham-Kent teams and organizations!

Ask us how we can help with your next fundraiser!

BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY (519) 380-0106 | 435 St. Clair St., Chatham |

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Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

80-90 GUESTS STARTING AT $13.99/GUEST NOVEMBER-JANUARY

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Andy Fantuz Helps Raise Money for Hospital Equipment Submited by Candice Jeffrey and Samantha McFadden, Photo credit Jeff Armstead and Canadian Press Chatham-Kent native and the CFL’s Hamilton Tiger-Cats Wide Receiver, Andy Fantuz, was named Honorary Chair of the Foundation of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance’s Diagnostic Imaging Equipment Renewal Campaign. The announcement was made at the campaign relaunch in August. Andy is joining campaign Co-Chairs, Greg Hetherington of 99.1fm CKXS radio and Depencier Builder’s, Dave Depencier.

The funds raised will support the purchase of 18 pieces of equipment, including 13 ultrasound machines for the Chatham and Sydenham campuses, a mammography machine, and a CT scanner. The Diagnostic Imaging Equipment Renewal Campaign has already raised $5.3 million with a goal of $6.9 million.

Fantuz made 631 catches for 8,308 yards with 44 touchdowns during his 11 CFL seasons with the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Ticats. After being sidelined at the beginning of the season, Fantuz returned to play in early October.

“I know how important it is to get a good overall picture of the injury in order to

know how to move forward with recovery,” said Fantuz. “Throughout my career, I have become familiar with diagnostic imaging and equipment like this has more than likely saved my career.”

The Hamilton Ticats recognizes the Foundation of CKHA’s campaign goes beyond sports and athletics.

“A lot more serious health issues can be addressed with the help of top-of-the-line equipment. These new additions to the hospital will attract new physicians to the area and improve the over-all ChathamKent community. I’m proud to be a part of this fundraising endeavour,” Andy added.

The Foundation of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance in encouraging sports teams to align with Andy’s views and to plan fundraisers on behalf of the Foundation. The Chatham-Kent Cougars, in tribute to Andy and his Chatham-Kent roots, selected the Foundation of CKHA as one of the recipients of their Punt, Pass and Kick fundraiser this fall. The Dresden Jr. Kings

also donated proceeds from the Paint the Rink Pink event to the campaign.

For more information on the campaign, or for information on how your team can get involved with helping the Foundation of CKHA to reach their goals, please visit foundationckha.com, or call (519) 436-2538.

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asktheexpert

The Right Workout Submitted by Dr. Brian Sides, D.C. , Photo credit Sarah Ytsma I wanted to share a great article I found by Dr. Jeff Spencer. Dr. Spencer was an Olympic cyclist who came to even greater fame as Lance Armstrong’s coach and chiropractor and now trains many world-class athletes. In this article, Spencer addresses the question, “How much exercise is too much.” Obviously, this is only relevant to those who are exercising regularly. But whether you are a beginner or a peak athlete this advice is critical.

Dr. Spencer points out that those that adopt the “more is better” approach will not usually get the results they are working for and will likely be nagged by continuous low-grade injuries that can ultimately interfere with workouts, create more stress, and zap motivation. All levels of training must be balanced with appropriate recovery. He breaks workouts into easy, moderate, and hard

categories. To simplify, an easy workout but his experience is that most people would be one where you could maintain overdo it. He recommends doing two a conversation through the workout. A hard workouts per week, but allowing moderate workout is where you could two easy workouts in between these talk, but would not want to - especially to provide balance. I think this is great in full sentences. A hard workout is advice for those already training in order where you simply could not carry on any to avoid setbacks and injuries. I also conversation. His biggest rule to prevent think this is helpful for those looking to overtraining is that hard workouts should get started to understand that you do not only be done once or twice per week have to kill yourself every day in order to with three days recovery in between. get the same results the pros get. If this Likewise, you should allow two days of interests you, please read next issue for recovery in between moderate workouts. another set of tips from this world-class Understand that you still can plan easy trainer and coach. workouts on these in between recovery days.

Dr. Spencer admits that high 226-996-1712 intensity training 467 St. Clair Street, Chatham is the best way www.ckperformancehealth.com to get results and stay fit, Chiropractic • Acupuncture • Massage Therapy • Movement Therapy

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Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

behindthebench

Winter Programs on Their Way Submitted by Shay Ireland-Heidt, Photo credit Jody Maynard With our fall sessions wrapping up, we are looking forward to Winter Session #1 beginning November 13, and Winter Session #2 in February. Check out our website for the many amazing programs we offer for everyone ages 3 to 18+, from drop ins to competitive programs, we’re sure to have something to offer your family.

Competition season is starting for both cheer and gymnastics and we have been developing our athletes and expect great things from them this season.

We are holding several fundraisers for our gym this season and would love to have you join us.

Join us for our annual Christmas Craft and Vendor Show November 12.

We recently joined flipgive.com which gives you a chance to shop online and support us at the same time, companies like Indigo, UnderArmour, Amazon, SportChek and more donate up to 18% of your purchase to our gym. You can get your Christmas shopping done and help us fundraise, all from the comforts of your own home!

We look forward to seeing you at the Chatham Christmas parade again this year on November 17. And of course in our gym anytime! Come out and give us a try!

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Wheatley Omstead Sharks Dresden Jr. Kings Amherstburg Admirals – Skate with the Lakers Mooretown Flags Essex 73’s Dresden Jr. Kings Petrolia Flyers Blenheim Blades Lakeshore Canadiens – Skate with the Lakers

Catch us at the Wallaceburg Christmas Parade November 18 2 pm

@WB_Lakers

Wallaceburg Lakers Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

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fromthesidelines

Getting the Community Involved with Lacrosse Submitted by Jamie Knight, Photo credit Jamie Knight

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Leave Your Mark Lacrosse (LYML) officially hit the floors this summer and our mission is be able to offer Lacrosse to as many kids in Chatham-Kent and surrounding area as possible. Owner, Jamie Knight, comes with 40 years of lacrosse experience and he has teamed up with his nephew, Jordan Durston, who plays professional lacrosse in the NLL the past two seasons in Vancouver and currently with the Buffalo Bandits. “We provide full week camps, personal/private/small group lessons and our goal is to get into some local schools and teach lacrosse during gym classes. We were fortunate enough to be invited to Delaware Nation in July to run a two day camp for boys and girls aged 5-15 that went over well. We then ran our first official camp in Bothwell and it was an overwhelming success with around 45 young athletes (many were first timers) packed in the arena from 9am3pm for three days. “For me, the coolest part of that camp was the diversity in regions as kids travelled there from all over CK, we even had a family travel from Thunder Bay for the three day camp!” We provide sticks and we teach stick skills in non contact drills and competitions that keep the kids interested and wanting more. We have five different one on one tournaments going on where the player gets to shoot and play net using a ball that will not injure anybody. “The event they enjoy the most is smashing watermelons,” each player gets five shots

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Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

to smash the watermelon and we actually had kids doing it by day three. Our goal is to make sure that every child on that floor improves over the course of the camp!

“I would like to thank Leave Your Mark Lacrosse for your efforts at making our July camp an overwhelming success. Your curriculum combined basic skills with innovative contest that made it fun for all participants. We found your instructors very good at interacting with the children.

Looking forward to continuing our relationship at future camps offered by our organization,” adds R.J. Hamilton.

We are currently running advanced skilled sessions for the serious lacrosse player at a gym in Wallaceburg and we are really happy with the turnout and how well it is going. We run all year round and we want to get the LYML brand to as many communities as possible and we will bring our show to you. We are online at www.leaveyourmarklacrosse.ca and you can follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

health&fitness

Take Your Workout Outdoors

Chatham-Kent Ministries

Submitted by Deb Veccia, Photo credit SportsXpress

In December 2016, in partnership with the Chatham Parks and Horticulture Department, the Chatham-Kent Public Health unit set aside funding to develop two additional outdoor fitness areas due to the popularity of the existing units at Family Fit Park in Kingston Park (Chatham), Fit Park in Memorial Park (Tilbury), and Blenheim B-Fit Park. Fitness equipment was also installed along the Tecumseh School Trail in Chatham.

Specifically, the funding set aside was to be used toward developing an outdoor fitness area in the south end of Chatham and in Pain Court at Centennial Park. This equipment encourages people to get out and get active and as this falls in line with ChathamKent Public Health’s mandate to improve the overall health of the community.

The two locations were chosen specifically for their close proximity to schools to encourage students to use the equipment. It also allows the high school phys-ed classes an opportunity to workout outside and is great for every age.

In order to proceed with the development of these two sites, administration contacted the physed heads of both McGregor School in Chatham and École Secondaire Catholique de Pain Court to generate feedback on the locations as well as seek their expertise for the phys-ed curriculum. Additionally, the Pain Court Parks Committee was consulted to determine the type of equipment that they felt the community would use.

The Pain Court Parks Committee also felt that the equipment was a fantastic community enhancement for all ages

and as a result agreed to donate $10,000 toward the project that would be fully accessible for all ages and abilities.

The funding from the Pain Court Parks Committee is raised through volunteer farming some of the parkland. The Pain Court Centennial Park Design will also have fully bilingual signage for equipment users to support the francophone community.

The equipment chosen through the evaluation is a static type equipment that is fully accessible with recycled rubber surfacing and the ability facilitate up to 25 people at any given time which is suitable in providing an outdoor classroom for phys-ed classes and for the general public use such as sports team or individual training.

The equipment offers a whole body workout that has been designed to be versatile, TREKFIT equipment will respond to the daily needs of amateur athletes as those of people who want to get back in shape as well as allowing users to perform many of the exercises with different levels of intensity. The programs are noted on clearly written pictorial style signage and can be modified to accommodate youth as well as a senior looking to maintain mobility and therefore not just for those who are young intense athletes.

“We are pleased with the partnerships that we established with the schools, students, and the community on both the Mud Creek and Pain Court Centennial Park outdoor fitness equipment and look forward to seeing the community benefits as a result of our partnerships,” adds Deb Veccia, Supervisor of Chatham Parks and Horticulture.

Giving Hope Today The Salvation Army in Chatham-Kent assists thousands of families during the Christmas season and year round.

We need your help to continue to meet those needs!

Ways you can give hope Organize a food or toy drive, over 1000 food hampers and 1000 toy hampers were distributed in CK in 2016

Donate Financially This years Christmas campaign goal is $460,000

Donate Your Time Stand at a kettle, several locations around CK, volunteers are needed for 2 hour time slots

Call your local office today!

Chatham 519-354-1430 Ridgetown/Blenheim 519-674-3765 Wallaceburg 519-627-8257 www.cksalvationarmy.org/

THANK YOU

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

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fromthesidelines

CK Special Populations Provides Amazing Opportunities Submitted by Erin Burnett, Photo credit Cindy McFadden My name is Erin Burnett, I have a 20 year old daughter named Jasmine who attends the CK Special Populations Programs. These programs give her the opportunity to be around her peers without judgement and allow her to be surrounded by people who understand her and help her with social and communication development.

Jasmine enjoys many programs like trampoline, horseback riding, sailing, music, drum fit, and so much more. All are great for exercise as well.

Powered by: Chatham

These programs that Cindy puts so much effort into means so much to us as parents.

For some, it gives respite and for others, just pure love to see the smiles it puts on our kids faces. Sometimes, it’s the little things that matter. Cindy goes above and beyond to create meaningful fun activities for all the kids and adults. She really takes the time to get to know each and every one of them. As a parent, I have no worries, I know that my daughter is in great hands.

Jasmine has made some long lasting friendships through the special

populations programs. As a parent I am extremely grateful. It is not always easy but with the programs like these it certainly helps. We have great appreciation for Cindy and her staff.

For more information about CK Special Population’s, feel free to email Cindy at cindymc@chatham-kent.ca.

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Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

sportsfiles

Curtis McCallum – Give it Your All, All the Time!

Written by CK SportsXpress, Photo credit McCallum Family

Curtis Allen McCallum started playing baseball at the age of 5 and has never looked back. The 18 year old Wallaceburg pitcher played with the Great Lake Canadians last season and is now being recruited by colleges in the US. The Great Lake Canadians Baseball program is ‘designed to provide an elite level team with high level competition, led by former professional baseball players’ (www.greatlakecanadians.com).

“Training with the Great Lake Canadians was really intense. We trained all through winter, 18 weeks of strength training and 13 weeks of baseball training. The season went from September until July.”

The training paid off, this fall Curtis was invited to Hastings College as a baseball scholarship candidate. “I got

the chance to meet the team and play some ball with them, toured the school etc, it was a great time! I hope to be there next year!”

Curtis credits hard work and dedication, and the support of his parents to his success. His parents say the financial load is not easy, between equipment, program and tournament fees and travel. They thank their community for their support financially and otherwise in getting Curtis to this level.

School has to be a priority to an athlete hoping to get a college scholarship. It requires a lot of work and planning ahead. With guidance from his parents, Curtis took as many required courses as possible in grades 9 & 10, so that when baseball required more time, he could give it.

Whenever an athlete gets to an elite level, you know that it took an entire support system to get there.

Curtis knows he wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for all the people who believed in him, and took the time to make his dream a reality. “I’d like to thank my parents Alan & Cheryl

McCallum, my first baseball coach, Kristen Blair, Dresden Minor Baseball and Wallaceburg Minor Baseball and of course Mike Hull. Thank you also to Matt Liberty for the opportunity to go see Hastings College, I’m very excited to see where that goes!”

Curtis played baseball in CK until last year when he got the opportunity to go to London, proving what the McCallum family strongly believes, “You don’t have to be in a big centre to be a good ball player”. With college on the horizons and dreams of going pro, his final advice to anyone wanting to go far, “Give it your all, all the time!”

Lots of great programs happening this winter, pickleball, adult exercise classes, sports agility clinics, bootcamp and more!

Give the gift of health! 2018 memberships available now! Contact us today!

943 Wellington St., Dresden, ON www.letsgetfitdresden.com Facebook.com/letsgetfitdresden Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

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sports@school

CCS Takes Part in the Terry Fox Run Submitted by Sharon Smith, Photo credit Sharon Smith It has become a meaningful tradition for the staff and students of Chatham Christian School (CCS) to participate in the Terry Fox Run every fall and this year was no exception. Students are encouraged to raise money and teachers raise awareness by discussing who Terry Fox was and how he was one of Canada’s heroes.

Students and teachers from JK through Grade 8 participated in an hour run/walk on a beautiful fall day.

A number of family members also joined in.

For many of the students, it is a very meaningful event because of their families’ personal experience with cancer. One student was running for her mother, who is a cancer survivor. Some other students were running for their piano teacher whose husband had just recently passed away from cancer. Other students were just running to support the cause.

It was so wonderful to see teachers, students, families, and the principal all running/walking together in memory and support.

Chatham Christian School www.chathamchristian.ca 519-352-4980

sportsfiles

I CAN! YOU CAN! WE CAN! EIGHT COUNT CHEER! Submitted by Liz Collins, Photo credit Liz Collins

At Eight Count Cheer Academy, we believe in “I CAN”. Our athletes learn

Our athletes learn to never give up and we are so proud.... to never give up and we are so proud of what they have accomplished so far.

With the season just starting, our teams are excited to show their routines on the performance floor. Our first competition is November 11th in Mississauga with Canadian Cheer Evolution. We will have open registration November 13th to November 16th, so there is still time to join this amazing sport.

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All Star Cheerleading is open to all interested individuals, boys and girls, ages 3-18, and adults 18 and older for

our parents’ team. No experience is needed. If competition is not for you, we have recreational classes as well. We also just celebrated

Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

our Open House and it was a huge success!

Visit our facebook page for video links and information, or check out our website at www.eightcountcheer.wixsite. com/mysite. We are located at 480 Riverview Dr Unit #3, just across from the bingo hall. Your first class is free to try and you can message us for class times at eightcountcheer@gmail.com.

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November 2017

Public SkatingSchedule Location Times Blenheim

Sundays 12:00 - 1:30 pm

Bothwell

Sundays 12:00 - 1:30 pm

Dresden

Fridays November 3, 10, 17 3:00 - 4:30 pm

Sundays November 5, 12, 19 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Ridgetown

Thursdays 3:30 - 5:00 pm / Saturdays 6:30 - 8:00 pm

Chatham Memorial

Saturdays 12:00 - 1:30 pm

Thames Campus

Sundays 1:00 - 2:30

W.K. Erickson

Fridays 4:00 - 5:30 pm

Tilbury

Sundays 1:00 - 2:30 pm

Wallaceburg

Sundays 2:00 - 3:30 pm

*Occasionally recreational skating may be pre-empted.

Be sure to check cancellation postings at the arena, online at www.chatham-kent.ca or call 519.360.1998

Our designs are in the Hockey Hall of Fame, get us to make you stand out this season!

281 Richmond St Chatham 519.380.9111 rpmhky@mail.com

• Make sure to thank your ice sponsors with your patronage • Chatham-Kent SportsXpress • November - December 2017

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ANDY FANTUZ

needs your help CFL’s Hamilton Tiger-Cats Wide Receiver, Chatham native and Foundation of CKHA’s Honourary Campaign Chair

Growing up playing football for John McGregor Secondary School, Andy’s sports related injuries as a teen could have prevented him from becoming a professsional athelete.

The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance’s Diagnostic Imaging equipment saved his career.

We can save your favourite athlete’s career too.

$6.9 MILLION CAMPAIGN GOAL

$5.3 MILLION RAISED SPRAINS • PULLS • SCIATICA CONCUSSIONS • BROKEN BONES TENDON INJURIES • CARTILAGE INJURIES

HELP ANDY FANTUZ

REACH HIS GOALS Launched in 2014, the Foundation of CKHA’s $6.9 million Diagnostic Imaging Equipment Renewal Campaign will purchase 18 new pieces of equipment: • Point of Care Ultrasounds (5) • Bone Densitometer • Fluoroscopy Machine • Mammography Machine • General Ultrasounds (5 for Chatham, 2 for Sydenham) • Cardiac Ultrasound • CT Scanner • SPECT CT Scanner You can help Andy to raise the remaining funds needed to finish this campaign by March 31, 2018.

PLEASE DONATE TODAY www.foundationckha.com | 519.436.2538 Foundation of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance 9 Ursuline Ave, PO Box 2030, Chatham, ON N7M 5L9 (mailing address) 325 Margaret Ave, Wallcceburg, ON