SportsXpress London Jan/Feb 2016

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MEC race wrap up

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JANUARY/FEBUARY 2016

Submitted by MEC

London & Area Edition

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The year ended off with MEC London chocolate fountain. We cannot wait to kick Race Five. On Oct 31, this race consisted off the 2016 race season! of both road and trail distance options.

What to expect in 2016 To date, we had our biggest race turnout We are very excited to announce the of 356. We also had our biggest day of dates for the 2016 race season. We will be registration with 56 runners. The weather hosting five races throughout London with was chilly, but fantastic for Halloween. many distance options available in both Runners were in great spirits with many trail and road. This year we have added dressing up in special costumes! This year a certified Full Marathon. This distance could not have been done without the is located in Pottersberg Park running amazing help of the MEC London Race volalongside the Thames River. Travel the city unteers. A huge thank you is owed to this as you head from South East London, to team, as they are what helps keep these South West London gliding through the great races running with low entry costs. downtown core and Western University.

As a thank you to all MEC London It’s the best route in town! Sign up for all Athletes, in December we hosted an five races for just $60.

Athlete Appreciation night. This night Go to: events.mec.ca. special guest speakers included: Cyclists MEC.ca Marten Mann - Training Principles, how to adapt to various schedules and lifestyles; Runner Ary Tsotras - A Personal Story (Ary, who is an amazing runner, happens to be blind and has used the MEC Race Series – as well as many other races – on his road to the Boston Marathon; and lastly Sue Safadi with Meridian Active Joint Physiotherapy Centre – Are you at risk for an injury? Focus on Prehab and It was a highly successful year for the MEC London Race Series, which not Rehab: A presentation wrapped up with its fifth race on Halloween. Next up is an exciting 2016 season, which will include a certified Full Marathon. on the Functional Movement Screen (FMS), a tool used to identify limitations or asymmetries in seven fundamental movement patterns that are key to functional movement quality in athletes. Other special guests included the MS Bike Tour, Goodlife Fitness, Pacer Running Club, and a few others! It was a great night with appetizers and a special

running................................................... pg 4 bowling................................................... pg 6 walking................................................... pg 7 lacrosse.................................................. pg 8 baseball............................................ pgs 9-11 soccer............................................. pgs 12-14 senior games.........................................pg 15 scholarship........................................... pg 20 dance.....................................................pg 21 accessible sports.................................. pg 22 climbing................................................ pg 23 rugby.................................................... pg 23 basketball...................................... pgs 24-25 aquatics......................................... pgs 26-29 volleyball....................................... pgs 30-32 golf................................................ pgs 33-35 cheerleading.................................. pgs 36-38 gymnastics..................................... pgs 38-39 hockey........................................... pgs 40-54 karate................................................... pg 54 Special thanks to Antony Chodas and Forest City Image Centre for the cover lacrosse photo of Taylor Chodas and Runners' Choice for the walking photo.

BEST. GIFT. EVER!

Road trips from London & Area to watch Pro Sports!

Upcoming Road Trips Toronto Maple Leafs at Detroit Red Wings

Mar 24

Montreal Canadiens at Detroit Red Wings

Mar 26

Pittsburgh Penguins at Detroit Red Wings

Apr 9 & 10 Boston Red Sox at Toronto Blue Jays

MEC Race Series 2016 Come join us for MEC London's 2016 Race Series. $15 or all 5 for $60 (limitted time) Race 1 - Saturday, March 12 - Spring Park - 5K/10K/15K Road Only Race 2 - Saturday, April 16 - StoneyBrook Area - 5K/10K/15K Road & 6K/12K Trail Race 3 - Saturday, May 28 - Potterburg Park - 5K/10K/Half Marathon/Full Marathon Road Only Race 4 - Saturday, September 10 - Fanshawe Cons. - 5K/10K Road & 6K/12K/Half Marathon Trail Race 5 - Saturday, October 22 - Gibbons Park - 5K/10K/15K Road & 5K/10K Trail

@SportsXpressLON

Mar 13

Apr 12

New York Yankees at Toronto Blue Jays

May 28

Boston Red Sox at Toronto Blue Jays

July 1

Cleveland Indians at Toronto Blue Jays

Sept 24

New York Yankees at Toronto Blue Jays

Road trip details available on page 24 or at

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JANUARY/FEBUARY 2016 Check out our website at LondonSportsXpress.ca PUBLISHER Greg Matthison GregM@SportsXpress.ca 519–619–6029

EDITOR WEB GRAPHIC DESIGNER CONTRIBUTORS

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Todd Devlin Jim Taylor Britt Cobean Tyler Schepens, Andrea Chisholm, Richelle Hirlehey, Tracy Regan, Mike Stubbs, Dr. Natascha Wesch, Greg Matthison, Amie Matte, Brenda Pinelli, Troy Rick, Isabelle Hicks, Elizabeth Litchfield, Rayna Plante-Schneider, Mike Rogozynski, Elgin Middlesex Chiefs, Runners’ Choice, EMSA, The Little Gym of London, MEC, EBBA, Connect Sports London, London Badgers, London Sports Council, Junction Climbing Centre, George Bray Sports Association, London Blizzard Sledge Hockey, St. Thomas Soccer Club, London Sharks Volleyball, Forest City Volleyball Club, Bowlerama Royale Youth League, Sportmax Nutrition, Hockey Heroes Weekend, Power Cheer Gym, Middlesex Swimming, Preferred Insurance & Partners, London Senior Games, TGA Premier Junior Golf, Forest City Diving Club, Olympic Karate, Puckstoppers, London Volleyball Club, St. George’s Rugby Club, Western Mustangs, Twist London Gym, LDBA, Progressive Hockey Development, London Synchro, London Aquatic Club, London Lightning Basketball, the SportsXpress Team and local sports enthusiasts.

Samantha Fung, Norm Allison, Rob Cameron, David Leyes, MEC, Connect Sports London, London Badgers, London Devilettes, Runners’ Choice, London Heat Cheerleading, EMSA, London Volleyball Club, London Knights, London Junior Knights, Bowlerama Royale Youth League, Ilderton Jets Minor Hockey, Forest City Volleyball Club, St. Thomas Shock Basketball, George Bray Sports Association, London Blizzard Sledge Hockey, London Sharks Volleyball, London Lightning Basketball, Middlesex Swimming, London Senior Games, Centrefield Sports, The Little Gym of London, TGA Premier Junior Golf, West London Hawks, Junction Climbing Centre, CheerStrike, Nor’West Soccer, St. George’s Rugby Club, Preferred Insurance & Partners, Millar Sports Chiropractic, Puckstoppers, Olympic Karate, Power Cheer Gym, Sportmax Nutrition, London Synchro, Western Mustangs, LDBA, London Junior Golf, Twist London Gym, Progressive Hockey Development, London Aquatic Club, Elgin Middlesex Chiefs, the SportsXpress Team, various sports group photographers and community sports fans.

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Editorial Contributions: Submissions are welcome from writers, photographers, athletes, coaches and individuals. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. Contributors are responsible for obtaining all approvals for the 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. SportsXpress is published six times per year. For detailed circulation information, contact Sports Express Media Inc. Sports Express Media Inc. 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 Sports Express Media Inc. attempt to provide accurate and useful information and commentary. However, the editors, contributors and Sports Express Media Inc. cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of the information. We assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any readers based on the information provided.

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Expansion success Helping kidsaget in the game

By Steve Nancekivell

Submitted by Connect Sports London

The 2014 season, our 26th overall, saw theAdult continued resurgence London Play REC Sports = Free of Leagues Lightning Fastball.

It was another major for Kids In London! expansion year, with Lightning Fastball We allocate a portion of all profits adding another two teams to bring the from each adult league into our Connect total number of girl’s competitive fastball Sports Kids programs. teams to six.

Novice Blue (U14), in their second Sport Leagues season and led byLondon head coach Chris to Connect Sports is looking Askew,the entered three The bridge gap for kidstournaments. unable to play girls always played hard earned the organized sports!

We are and creating sports respect of the top teams. leagues and summer family days at no “I'm proud ofOften, the hard work my cost forvery individuals. families canplayers displayed this year,” Coach not afford to register their kids in sports Askew said. them to various locations. or transport Novice Red (U14), led by head coach Tackling these problems with grassroots Darren Walz, picked up where last leagues in a number of neighbourhoods year's team left off, winning one gold, is our goal. Our first leagues will consist two silvers and a bronze medal during of basketball leagues in 2016 for kids tournament play this season. The Novice aged 7-13.also accepted an opportunity Red team to head toSports White Rock, Connect KidsB.C. Dayto compete

atWe thehave Canadians in partnered the Tier II division recently with thein early August.

London Eco Park to run free family/sport days during the summer. Our goal is to Head coach and LLF President Terry

Woods and the London Lightning Bantam Blue (U16) began their inaugural season with a bang, winning five of six games at the season opening tournament and by continued Junior/Intermediate team coached by Bill transport kids & families bus from their winning ways for most of the the park Bantam Blue (U16) did a lot of winning in 2014, including various locations in London to a 3rd place finish at the Port Perry tournament year, earning a third-place finish at the for a day of FUN! Offering free activities, Port Perry tournament in June. fishing, hiking, sports events and a free Bantam Red (U16), led by head Sword. Having played in the Tri-County lunch for all. Our first Connect Sports coach Tim Burden, competed in four Kids day is scheduled for Saturday, July 9. league, the ladies had a fun and successtournaments, including one in Canton, ful first season.

To learn The moreteam about thebronze program or to Michigan. won in the 'A' London Lightning Fastball would like get involved, visit www.connectsportdivision at a tournament in Barrie in June, to thank all of our head coaches, asslondon.com. and won silver at the Provincial Qualifiers sistant coaches, parent volunteers and, in the TierAdult II division. of course, our sponsors for their supJanuary League Sports Long-time London Lightning Fastball port and commitment throughout the Registration player, coach, association member and 2014 season. Open workouts/tryouts Sign up solo, with friends or submit a newly-appointed Fanshawe Falcons are scheduled for early September for full team! League play begins January 11. fastball coach Catherine Arthur and her squirt (U12) ages and up, and our winter Register online.

Midget (U18) team had a successful year workouts will take place in the January – SportsupInclude: moving to the Tier I division. They March timeframe. Check out our website Basketball, Volleyball,Humber Dodgeball, competed in Brantford, College, for more details.

Futsal Soccer, Hockey, Men’s Ball Port Huron andFloor the Motor City tournaDan Szynkaruk & Eric Loveland are Connect londonlightningfastball.com.

Hockey MultiMichigan.

Sport League ment in and Canton, The team Sports members and huge supporters of the finished 7th in Ontario. www.connectsportslondon.com Kids program!

This was the first year for the LLF

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It’s Game On for Darts in London

Youth bowlers thriving What was once considered boys’ night at the old smokybypub has now become of the fastest Submitted Bowlerama Royale Youthone League growing sports across the country!

Rideout. “We also have around youth bowlers Paul Rideout knows his bowling. The the province throughout the season, kids Dartdirector leagues are sprouting up everywhere program of the Bowlerama Royale compete for the Ontario Provincial Team, between the ages of 7 and 18 are taking the Youthand League has been involved with and one bowlers is on the Canadian London is leading the the pack with oneofofourthe sport by in storm!

National District Team and has competed organization more than 14 years, first area’s for largest membership, the London Panama and Puerto Rico.” as a coach, then as co-program director Whether it’s a registered league or just some Men’s League. also the longest Rideoutrunning says the Youth League also before takingDart over the reins asIt’s director. friends meeting dartserved league in North of America dating back to He’s also as president the GMDD offers scholarship money that bowlers can in the garage once a week, bowling league on Tuesday for over earn to help darts is the new game night! It’s cheap, easy to 1946.

The Londonnights Ladies Dart League isn’tpay for school.

“As a league, we pay out overand $3,000 in of all, fun! For more information 25 years. learn most far behind, with hundreds of league members scholarships each year,” he said.

The Bowlerama Royale Youth League - drop

by Sanders Recreation & Fitness. gathering tobowlers try their best the program The at long-time director is currently consistsevery of moreweek than 75 always open to new faces in the league, ranging in age from 3 to 21. The league bullseye.

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, get great and those interested, either as a youth bowls on Saturday mornings each week, throwing tips fromyou thecan experts andhe find all“The of the the night fastest growingBowlers dart group appears get to fall,” said. kids like with aAnd practice on Mondays. bowler or as ato coach, should contact equipment you need to make your game the to watch their scores get higher each week Dozensworking of youth Saturday Rideout or the bowling centre. Or head on focusbe on kids! sportsmanship, to- meet every as they learn new skills. It’s also a chalout on a Saturday morning and outat Sanders! gether hand-eye coordination, best it check can be toashita team, the boards including a national champ, lenge to get better and raise your average, the action. balance, timing, and making adjustment right here from London! With tournaments held Check us out on-line today. tryingattoplaywithsanders.ca get as many spares and strikes Bowling is growing in popularity again, decisions based on how the ball reacts on as you can. and Rideout believes the reasons are the lane.

Bowling, Rideout says, is a sport where “Many of our bowlers compete on the simple. it doesn't matter what age you are or skill “Kids like bowling, it’s fun rolling the youth bowlers tour, which has tournalevel. You can still have fun! ball down the lane to see how many pins ments throughout the season,” said

DEXTER SHOES F O IR A P a y u B ker shoe bag ic K E E R F a e iv .

Rece ctions may apply ls. Some restri *Ask your local

The Bowlerama Royale Youth League boasts more than 75 bowlers aged 3 to 21 who are passionate about improving their skills and raising their scores

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Power UP your walk Submitted by Runners’ Choice Did you see a mysterious skiless cross-country skier on your way to work this morning?

Don’t be fooled, this person knew exactly what they were doing. Urban Poling – also called Nordic Walking – is a hot fitness trend spreading throughout Canada.

For years, health care professionals have stressed the benefits of walking for personal fitness and well-being. Urban poling takes walking to the next level.

Poling with specially designed urban poles provides a surprisingly impressive workout, engaging 90% of the body’s muscles, burning 46% more calories than regular walking while reducing stress on hips and knees.

The growing trend of urban poling can be seen throughout the London area, and its popularity is attributed Also called Nordic Walking, urban poling engages 90% to the incred- of the body’s muscles while burning 46% more calories than regular walking ible workout hard as you would like to. it provides.

People of all ages and fitness levels You develop your benefit from this fun and social form of own rhythm or groove, and as you exercise. become confident www.runnerschoice.on.ca you can work as

Urban Poling – Walk this Way

Urban Poling Clinics at Runners’ Choice NEW in 2016!

Learn the right technique for the best results!

Register online at runnerschoice.ca.

Or visit the store at 207 Dundas St. (just west of Clarence St.).

Urban Poling – Changing The Way We Walk

@SportsXpressLON

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London Minor Lacrosse Registration 2016 Join over 500 local athletes who play Canada’s National Summer Sport right here in London!

• House League and Competitive programs • For boys and girls, ages 3-21 • Box (indoor) and Field (outdoor) available

Sign up NOW for our winter lacrosse programs: Winter Skills Camp :

• Every Saturday from January 16 - March 5 • 9:00, 10:00 or 11:00 (groups divided by age/skill) • North London Optimist Centre • $150 for all 8 sessions, or $25/session

Registration dates for the 2016 summer season:

Give Lacrosse a Try:

• January 24 and/or February 21 $10/session 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 1:00 • Lambeth Community Center gym Skill instruction, basic game play with soft balls. Players bring hockey type gloves and helmets with cage and indoor shoes. We supply the lacrosse stick!

For full details visit: londonlacrosse.com

January 17 10-2 Oneida Community Centre January 24 10-2 Lambeth Community Centre February 21 10-2 Lambeth Community Centre March 6 10-2 Stronach Arena

London Lacrosse News

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@London_Lax

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A copy of the player’s Birth Certificate, Passport, Status Card or Health Card is required.

Lineup for 2016

at practice stations and then show off their new skills in friendly scrimmages. The program consists of nine 1.5 hour Submitted by EBBA and photo by Norm Allison sessions on Saturday mornings at Mornington Park with the Eager Beaver Baseball is as busy as final session on July 16 at Labatt Park. The its namesake, planning its 62nd season convener is Laura Kaufman tball@ebba.ca. of youth baseball. League president Rick Rookie: Players born in 2007 and 2008 Peters is expecting registration to be compete in an 18+ game, machine pitch strong this year. league with two games and one practice “The excitement of seeing the Blue Jays a week. Scores are kept, but the play is in post-season action is sure to trickle friendly and instructional. Season runs down to the youngest of fans,” he said. from May until mid August. Home Field is The first in-person registration is set for Mornington Park. Convener is Ryan Legros January 23 and will be followed by three rlegros@ebba.ca. more dates ending in March. On-line regisThe following divisions offer 18+ game tration will open in February. Weekly preseasons ending with playoffs in August. season clinics for the Rookie and Mosquito There are two games and one practice a divisions will start January 4. week.

Little Sluggers: Players born in 2011 Mosquito: Players born in 2005 and and 2012 are introduced to the basics 2006 have their first experience pitching. of baseball over five Saturday mornings Home field is Mornington Park. Convener is starting May 24. The one-hour sessions at Shawn Ramsay sramsay@ebba.ca.

Mornington Park are focused on developPeeWee: (2003 and 2004) Home field ing skills. Keith Blois will be convening is Mornington Park. Convener is Jake Little Sluggers this year and he can be Sorensen jsorensen@ebba.ca. reached at littlesluggers@ebba.ca.

Bantam: (2001 and 2002) Home field TBall: Players born in 2009 and 2010 is Kiwanis Park. Convener is Jason O'Neil have the opportunity to work on their skills

Coach Ryan Legros fine tunes the throwing technique at a preseason Rookie and Mosquito clinic, while Luke Walsh awaits his turn.

joneil@ebba.ca.

Midget: (1998-2000): Home field is Kiwanis Park Junior: (1994-1997) Home field is Citywide. Convener is Laurel Anne Belki lbelki@ebba.ca.

EBBA is an entirely volunteer organization. Volunteer coaches and managers are essential for not just the success of the program, but they make the program feasible. If you are interested in coaching, please contact the house league chairman Steve Moore: smoore@ebba.ca.

Further information on registration dates and fees can be found at ebba.ca.

www.ebba.ca

Pros choose London Submitted by Tracy Regan, GM Centrefield Sports There are very few businesses that service the 5-year-old tee ballplayer coming in with his first glove, while sharing space with elite professional players in the major leagues, but Centrefield Sports Facility can boast about having both of those athletes as their clients.

Jamie Romak, a former Diamondback and recent signee to the Nippon Professional Baseball League in Japan (Yokohama), still finds time in his busy schedule to train the young athletes at CFS. Meanwhile, up-and-coming athletes Brock Dykxhoorn (Houston Astros), Nick Hamilton (Boston Red Sox), Miles Gordon (Cincinnati Reds), and Demi Orimoloye (Milwaukee Brewers) also spend their days training at the facility. These athletes displayed their talents at this year’s Centrefield Sports College/Pro Showcase for MLB and NCAA scouts. Over 115 athletes from across Canada attended the one-day event.

Looking back at 2015 brings a smile to the faces of those who call Centrefield Sports their home. Business London magazine’s 20 Under 40 Award presented to Centrefield founder and owner, Adam Stern, is a proud moment to remember. However, true to his nature, while Adam was in the midst of being presented with this prestigious award, his focus was zeroed in on helping the community with the facility’s largest Sports Yard Sale, raising funds for the London Boys & Girls Club and CFS Outreach Program.

And who can forget Canada’s miraculous Baseball Gold Medal at the Pan Am games? Centrefield Sports was proudly represented on Team Canada by our very own Chris Robinson & Brock Kjeldgaard.

These two world-class players and coaches still find themselves teaching the roots of baseball during lessons, summer camps, and clinics at the facility. @SportsXpressLON

Jamie Romak (Yokohama), Brock Dykxhoorn (Houston Astros), Nick Hamilton (Boston Red Sox), Miles Gordon (Cincinnati Reds), and Demi Orimoloye (Milwaukee Brewers) have spent their offseason training at Centrefield Sports

Baseball fever in Canada has reached new heights with the Toronto Blue Jays reaching the ALCS in 2015. What better place than Centrefield Sports to continue the experience of baseball in Canada. For more information, please visit www.centrefieldsports.com or phone 519-691-1200.

www.centrefieldsports.com

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Badgers honoured, new year ahead Submitted by the London Badgers

The London Badgers will be holding a Rookie Ball development clinic beginning in January. The clinic is designed for all skill levels, and will help the players prepare for their upcoming seasons with their respective teams. The goal is to create a strong technical foundation for tomorrow’s young players. Each of our young ballplayers will be taught the following skillsets: • Fundamentals of Throwing, Fielding, Hitting, Base Running • Basic Defensive Tactics (where to throw the ball) • Proper Pre-Game Warm-up • Light Conditioning Cost: $150.00 (cheques payable to: London Badgers Baseball) Location: The Batter's Box, 1480 Dundas St., London, ON Times: 8:30am to 10:00am Dates: January 3, 10, 17, 24, 31;

February 7, 14, 21, 28; March 6, 27; April 3, 10 For more information, contact Mike Lumley at 519-619-6792

www.londonbadgers.on.ca

The Minor Peewee Badgers celebrate their OBA championship win

2015 Badger Award Winners Major Midget Pitcher of the Year: Travis Keys Hitter of the Year: Jacob Mansfield Defensive Player of the Year: Daniel Lichty

Minor Peewee Pitcher of the Year: Jordan Spring Hitter of the Year: Evan Prince Defensive Player of the Year: Brett Harrison

Major Bantam Pitcher of the Year: Connor Ambrogio Hitter of the Year: Alex Pettipiece Defensive Player of the Year: Brendan Johnston

Major Mosquito Pitcher of the Year: Lukas Meyer-Davis Hitter of the Year: Seth Hedges Defensive Player of the Year: Carson Lumley

Minor Bantam Pitcher of the Year: Jaryd Lund Hitter of the Year: Braydon Vescheuren Defensive Player of the Year: Brad Verhoeven

Minor Mosquito Pitcher of the Year: Blake Connors Hitter of the Year: Dylan Baker Defensive Player of the Year: Landyn Jamieson

Major Peewee Pitcher of the Year: Jacob Haak Hitter of the Year: Kieran Pook Defensive Player of the Year: Justin Maccabe, Ryan Bonter

Jr. Player of the Year: Jordan Spring Sr. Defensive Player of the Year: Brad Verhoeven Volunteer of the Year: Diane Berwick Graeme Nichol Scholarship Award: Jacob Mansfield Staples Scholarship Award: Jacob Mansfield

Kids and weights Submitted by Twist London Gym Is it safe for young athletes to lift weights? YES ... when it is properly performed. Should any young athlete do a MAX effort lift? Absolutely not! But with

As long as the movements are properly performed, youth athletes can benefit greatly from lifting light weights

light weights, they can safely develop strength and core stability, and create a more efficient nervous system.

With expert instruction and an emphasis on proper form, motor patterns, and creating body awareness, a young athlete can and will become stronger by lifting light weights.

If your 10-year-old can lift a gallon of milk, then he can certainly lift an 8-pound dumbbell. When your 12-yearold daughter jumps off the swings or drops from the monkey bars, she is putting an immense amount of force on her knees, ankles, and back ... far greater than any goblet squat with a 10-pound medicine ball would. In football, we put our kids in pads and let them run full speed into each other at forces up to 5 times their bodyweight, which is nowhere near what is done safely with equipment in the gym.

At Twist, we teach proper form and

Toronto Blue Jays vs

10

progress athletes slowly so that they learn the proper way to move and lift.

We also know that ‘heavy’ and ‘light’ are relative and not absolute. It is ‘light’ if a youth athlete can perform 15 reps, no matter what the weight is. If James can do 15 reps with 10 pounds, then it is light for him. It doesn’t matter that it is 10 pounds. Our job is to identify when a youth athlete needs to progress or regress in order to establish the solid foundation required to build upon. At Twist, we build bodies that work so that they are ready for whatever life or sport throws at them.

Move – Lift – Learn – Be Ready!

Twist Sport Conditioning Centre 31-1828 Blue Heron Dr., London info@twistlondongym.com 519.914.2682

www.twistlondongym.com Boston Red Sox Apr 9, 10 & May 28

Community baseball alive and well Submitted by LDBA With the colder temperatures here, what better way to think warm thoughts than to talk baseball. The Toronto Blue Jays had a season not seen since the early 90’s. In the Forest City, baseball is alive and well, including the London and District Baseball Association. The 2015 season was a very successful one by all accounts, with thousands of kids playing the game, from the ages of 5 years old up to 21, on diamonds in London, St. Thomas, and the surrounding area. Community baseball is certainly alive and well!

London and District teams represented the organization at both the provincial and national levels. Provincially, LDBA teams were successful at various championships across Ontario this past summer. The North London Nationals Major Peewee team captured Ontario Gold at their provincial tournament hosted in the

St Thomas Tom Cats Juniors

Also includes Aylmer, DelawareKomoka-Mt Brydges, Dorchester, Exeter, Lucan-Ilderton, Ingersoll, Mitchell, Sarnia, Strathroy, Tillsonburg, and Wyoming

Forest City. The St. Thomas Cardinals AA Minor Rookie Team captured gold, as did the Dorchester Diamondbacks in Major Rookie.

The Minor Peewee London Tecumsehs were silver medalists, while the Minor Peewee London Badgers captured AAA gold, and the Ilderton A’s were gold medalists in Major Bantam D. The midget London Badgers captured AAA gold and also won gold at the Baseball Ontario Elimination tournament, giving them an unprecedented 8th appearance at the 18U Baseball Canada National Championships.

Finally, the St. Thomas Tomcats AAA team earned a silver medal at the Elimination tournament, qualifying them for the 21U National Championships in Saskatchewan. Nationally, the Major Peewee Badgers captured bronze at the 13U Nationals in Quebec for the second consecutive season, and the Junior Tomcats captured bronze.

LDBA umpires represented the organization at many events last year. At Ontario Elimination tournaments, Jim Cressman was a supervisor at

midget, Justin Snively was an umpire at seniors, Eldon Dunseith was an umpire at senior, Bobby Blake was an umpire at senior, and Dan Mudry was an umpire at bantam. Nationally, Dan Mudry umpired at the 13U Atlantic Championships, and was the home plate umpire in the gold medal game. Justin Snively was an assistant supervisor at the 13U Atlantic and an umpire at the senior championships. Jim Cressman was a supervisor at midget, Rob Companion was an umpire at senior, and Shawn Taylor was an umpire at Bantam.

It’s never too early to start thinking about the 2016 season. Registrations for most associations will begin early in 2016. Information can be found at the LDBA website: ldbabaseball.ca. There, you will find links to all local association websites to assist with registering for the 2016 season. Also, in 2016 LDBA and the London Badgers will be hosting the 13U Baseball Canada National Championships at Stronach Park from August 25-28. This will be the second time the event has been hosted in London.

ldbabaseball.ca

St Thomas Cardinals Minor Rookie

London Badgers Minor Peewee

New York Yankees Apr 12 & Sept 24

Cleveland Indians Jul 1

Detroit Tigers Jul 9

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Lawrence in London Submitted by EMSA Natalie Lawrence, the assistant coach of the Whitecaps Academy Centre Female Program and the Girls Elite REX Program, was in London from December 3-7 for some special sessions.

Natalie Lawrence comes to Vancouver after spending the past four years working with New Zealand Football in a Women’s Football Development position.

As part of her role, Lawrence achieved significant growth in her region while implementing talent development programs -- specifically, the Talent Acceleration Programme, in which she was responsible for implementing player models for elite women’s football in New Zealand, and developing and delivering training sessions for girls aged 13 to 20 identified as national team prospects.

Lawrence also worked with Capital saw the sessions thought they were fantastic.

Football, and in 2014 served as the Head Coach of the ASB Women’s National www.londonyouthwhitecaps.com League senior side. In her role with Whitecaps FC, Lawrence will work closely with Humphries in both the Girls Elite REX and Academy Centre programs.

Additionally, she will work to build relationships with youth clubs in the soccer community.

Left to right: Alan Alderson (Whitecaps Academy London - Head Coach), All those who Ethan Gopaul, Bart Choufour (Head Coach Whitecaps Academy Centres), Patrick Melo participated and

Girls Team – Coach Abe Hadzic – 2007 Girls

Boys Team – Coach Ugo Decandido – 2008 Boys

Adult and Youth Spring Indoor Soccer Tournaments

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BMO Centre is located at 295 Rectory Street - London • Office Phone: 226 289 2838 LondonSportsXpress

Doug Tarry Homes is a proud supporter of the St Thomas Soccer Club

Dances with Wolves Submitted by St. Thomas Soccer Club and photo by Rob Cameron In 2015, the St. Thomas Soccer Club hosted a preliminary ID camp for the Wolves North American Academy. Ian McClurg, the Technical Advisor for the STSC in 2015, runs 1v1 Soccer, which is a partner club within the Wolves North American Academy. The Academy is the North American arm of the Wolverhampton Wanderers, from the English Premier League, Centre of Excellence. From this preliminary ID camp, STSC player Keegan Windover was invited to attend an ID camp in Atlanta, GA. This invitation only went out to the

was a member of the STSC ’99 Boys Crew team that won the Challenge Cup in 2014. When Keegan was asked to describe his goals, there was no hesitation from him: “To play professional soccer.”

Keegan did take a moment for reflection when asked about his biggest strengths on the pitch.

“I am naturally left-footed, and that has definitely helped me,” the youngster said. “But my coaches have always seen my ability to play any position on the pitch as a huge bonus. It just seems to come natural for me. When I’m out there on the field, things seem to be moving in slow motion, allowing me to read and react to the play quickly.”

The talented teenager is very excited at this opportunity, although it comes with a significant price tag. Keegan explained how the trip is going to cost $4,500 and his family is not in a financial position to help with that.

“I am actively searching for donors and sponsors to help lessen the financial burden,” he said.

There is no doubt that Keegan has the ability to compete against the best-ofthe-best, and the STSC wishes him the best of success as he travels across the pond to Dance with Wolves.

top 100 of over 10,000 players scouted from Keegan’s age group. Keegan had tremendous success at the Atlanta ID camp, and has been selected as 1 of only 10 players from North America from his age group to attend an Elite Assessment at the Wolverhampton Wanderers’ training facility in England in April 2016.

Keegan is a grade 11 student in St. Thomas, and an active member of the STSC. Not only is he an active player, but he is also one of the top young officials in the area, and an active volunteer at Club events throughout the season. Keegan

www.stthomassoccer.com

A great ID camp in Atlanta, GA has STSC player Keegan Windover headed to England in April 2016 for an Elite Assessment at the Wolverhampton Wanderers’ training facility

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Struck by Lightning Submitted by Isabelle Hicks, Elizabeth Litchfield, and Rayna Plante-Schneider The NorWest Lightning U16 Provincial team is made up of 20 unique young women who, together, create a unit that will strive to maintain an ideal balance of hard work and fun, in 2016. Over the years, the team has established a strong sense of camaraderie and friendship.

This tight-knit group has shown passion, determination, dedication and a drive to obtain their goal – winning WOYSL and qualifying for OYSL. Coach Brian Foster is very proud of the

Lightning girls and their successes.

“Originally, I had a three-year plan to achieve our goal of reaching L1, but we met it in only two!” he said.

Making the transition from a Regional to a Provincial team is huge. The players have been putting in a lot of time and making personal sacrifices. The team has had ups and downs; from coach and player changes, to developing a more positive mindset when approaching challenges.

“One of our central focuses has been convincing the players to believe in themselves,” Foster said.

“That through hard work and dedication, they can achieve their goals.”

To prepare for the challenges ahead, the team trains on turf multiple times a week and will participate in several Indoor, 11v11, tournaments this winter, in Canada and the U.S. In addition to conditioning and technical training throughout their

“off season,” the Lightning has dedicated time to mentoring younger NW players and volunteering for the club.

“They help out often!” said a NW Administrator. “Parents tell us how inspiring they were at our Jumpstart Free Play Fundraiser, and they walked the Hyde Park Santa Claus Parade sharing candy with families as our float passed. We’re proud of the girls for many reasons.”

The Lightning shared that they wouldn’t be where they are without training from Empower Conditioning, support and encouragement from their parents, coaches, and the NorWest Soccer staff.

Team captain, Rayna Plante-Schneider, is looking forward to the challenges that such high-level soccer brings.

“This coming season will be difficult, but an exciting new step for us!” she said.

Players and coaches alike are hopeful that next season will be as extraordinary as previous ones, and are eager to show Ontario what they’re made of!

@NorWestSoccerL norwestsoccer www.norwestsoccer.com

The Nor’West Lightning U16 Provincial team members are working extra hard this winter in preparation for a big season ahead

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Bentley Hearing recognizes Sporting Seniors Featured Organization: London Senior Games

Come join us Submitted by London Senior Games London is one of 41 districts in the Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA), which were originally initiated by the Older Adult Centres Association of Ontario (OACAO) in late 1982. In 1983, OACAO approached the Ministry of Tourism and Recreation for financial assistance to help develop the program and promote the activities throughout the various districts in Ontario with approximately 4,600 participants in 31 activities in 21 different communities.

This increased in 1984, as 8,300 people participated in 38 activities in 35 districts/communities.

In 2011, the Ontario Senior Games Association began branding their identity throughout Ontario and is now referred to as OSGA 55+.

London Senior Games (LSG) - District 30 is a totally volunteer association that was established in 1985. In the beginning, a representative from most of London’s Senior Centres sat on the board. Today, volunteers from across London meet the first Wednesday of each month, excluding July and August, working hard to administer LSG, and make possible the use of community facilities for promoting an active

lifestyle for people aged 55 and up by procuring conveners to oversee a wide range of FUN games and activities.

Annually, LSG hosts a variety of summer and winter games. During the even years, LSG sends its gold qualifiers to the Ontario 55+ Summer Games. In the odd numbered years, participants can qualify for the Southwest Regional 55+ Games and the Ontario 55+ Winter Games.

These events are a great way to engage in the community, meet new people, and stay active!

Please help keep LSG active and successful. Without YOU, there would be no LSG. Please come out to our meetings the first Wednesday of every month. We are looking for people to help with the running of the games and board activities at our meetings. It’s not hard ... just volunteer a tiny bit of your time.

We desperately need your help!

• Participate • Convene • Volunteer Your input and participation will help us continue to provide the best games possible for the 55+ generation in London, District 30.

We NEED YOUR HELP!

www.londonseniorgames.com

Sports Include: • Prediction skating • Snooker • Squash • Table Tennis • 10 pin bowling • Volleyball • Wii Bowling, • Badminton • Crokinole

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Highlighting 3 staff at Dulux Paints who sportsfiles teamprofiles are involved in community sports

Dulux in the community Why girls’ hockey is great!

By SportsXpress Team

Ladouceur helping on the diamond Story and photo

by Coleen Dalton

Outside of work, Paul Ladouceur, a Trade Sales Representative at Dulux Paints, There is nothing like the excitement spends a lot of time on the diamond. of watching your daughter take theThe puck veteran baseball hastime spent four years down the ice forcoach the first and score coaching houseCheers leaguefrom baseball, and three her first goal! the fans in with his current organization, thefrom North the stands, a wave to parents the London Softball ice, andGirls a smile thatAssociation. could light up the “I gotare involved in coaching arena what follows thatbecause amazingI like to be on the field helping out,” moment.

Teammates hug and fistsaid bump Ladouceur, whocoaches himself has activeof on the bench, are been so proud in baseball, volleyball and kenpo karate. their athletes, and the player has gained “My focus is knowing to help the kidsshe learn and have confidence that is part of an some fun.” thing – a team! incredible There have been plentyhelps of highlights Playing girls’ hockey create during his time coaching the girls, but his favourite moment came in 2014 at the end of the year playoffs. Two of his players hit key home runs.

“It was extraordinary to see the whole team and the coaches and parents cheering,” Ladouceur said. “The game happened to be our last of the season, so we ended the year on a great note!”

friendships that last a lifetime.

The “I found that I could help develop The 40 members of London’s youth dart league meet every Saturday morning atmosphere in the dressing room not only the skill set required to play is full at Moose Lodge 1300 on Charterhouse Crescent of music,but chatter and laughter while the baseball, I could help with many league (approx. 200 members) and Dave is girls prepare tothe play together as asaid team! other aspects of players’ lives,” a member of the men’s dart league as well What the does it mean to beatpart ofPaints. this Anjema, store manager Dulux now and 22(approx. and have been apart for as the21 Treasurer 475 members). team? Most recently, aencouragement, group of my eldest “Things like teamwork, rea few years.

What amazed me watching The league is affiliated with Darts Ontario, daughter’s teammates were brought spect, sportsmanship, leadership…

I wanted thisthe group wascompete the easeinwith which their and players a zone shoot to together through a sad and difficult to show them that baseball could be much “sisterhood” instantly returned.

They qualify for Provincials in March (held in St. situation – the passing of one of their more than just a game played on the field.” have been through amazing wins and difCatharines). long-time coaches. enjoys Many of thesethe girls Anjema especially seeing playThey “It’slosses a hugetogether. achievement to have makecheered Team played hockey they ers develop into together leaders onsince and off thewere field.6 ficult together and cried together.

They have Ontario because there are around 250 of the or“To 7 years until they were 18put and have old all the hard work they in getalways had each other.

They will always top youth players in Ontario vying for a spot ting ready to leave They are during practices andfor theuniversity. games all come be a team! on the team,” said De Groot. together is very rewarding and gives you a There is something incredibly strong Last March, Mike De Groot finished great sense of pride,” he said. and unique aboutmale girlsand being able to be number 1 in senior represented De Groot heads up darts league part of a girls’which hockey team.

Team Ontario, went on toThe winconfiboth Dulux Paints Regional Operations dence they build, theCanada friendships, the Nodor Cup and the Cup atand the Manager, Dave De Groot, along with his wife the memories, which they will carry with Nationals.

Denise, are the conveners of London’s youth them for the rest of their lives. dart league, which plays out of Moose Do you want more information on how Lodge 1300 on Charterhouse Crescent. The to get your daughter involved in the great league has three divisions: Tyke (up to age game of hockey? Check out the London Anjema embraces coaching ball 12), Junior (up to age 15), and Senior (ages Devilettes website: www.londondevFred Anjema was more of a soccer player 16-18), and is open to all calibre of players. ilettes.com. The Devilettes are dedicated growing up before heading behind the “The league provides a smooth transito the growth and development of female bench to coach his son’s minor baseball tion into the London Men’s and Ladies Dart hockey players! team. But while he figured the primary benLeagues,” said De Groot, adding that an efits would be getting to spend time with his awards ceremony and banquet is held at Therelearned is something about girls’ hockey andof theevery friendships and memories sons, he soon thereunique was even more Paulwww.londondevilettes.ca Ladouceur poses with his Fred Anjema with his son, Owen, the end season. at the ball diamond. Photo by daughter after a North London which will last for a lifetime to be gained by coaching youth sport.

Denise is a member of the ladies dart Melissa Anjema Softball Association game

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The physiotherapy and sport rehabilitation specialists at Fowler Kennedy provide comprehensive assessment and treatment programs which focus on return to optimal performance and injury prevention. A dynamic, exercise based approach ensures a seamless progression from early rehabilitation to peak fitness and performance.

One of the keys to successful recovery is early intervention which may reduce the severity of an injury, allow a faster return to participation, and help prevent recurrence of injury.

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10 locations to serve you in Southwestern Ontario @SportsXpressLON

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Millar joins the London Knights

By SportsXpress Team Don Millar likes working with teams.

The long-time chiropractor says treating athletes on teams gives him a sense of being part of a family, which you don’t get with individual sports. And teams certainly like working with Don Millar too.

Millar Sports Chiropractic has not only been an advertiser with the London Knights for the past 14 years, but Millar is also involved in treating players in need of chiropractic adjustments throughout the wear and tear of a season.

“I go to Budweiser Gardens once per week after their practice is over, and treat whichever players the trainer has determined need chiropractic treatments that week,” says Millar, who has been in business for 31 years. “I also report to the Medical Room an hour before each home game and right after each home game ends, to see if any players need chiropractic treatment.”

Millar, who is a Fellow of the Royal

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College of Chiropractic Sports Sciences, says he sees a lot more acute hockey injuries now than he did when he saw hockey players only in his office, and that experience helps him to be more accurate in his diagnosis and treatment regimens.

Besides the Knights, Millar has worked with the Canadian Rowing Team for 20 years, London City Soccer for 10 years, the London Majors baseball team for eight years, and the London Devilettes. He has a great relationship with all of these teams.

“Once they understand what a chiropractor can do for them, the players on all the teams I work with are very receptive to chiropractic treatments.”

dbmillar.com

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Don Millar and Ashely Naranjo (office administrator) proudly wear their London Knights attire

sportsfiles

Turkey Bowl smashes record Submitted by Preferred Insurance & Partners Preferred Insurance & Partners raised an amazing $37,210 for Childcan at Turkey Bowl 2015, smashing their fundraising goal and previous record.

The Preferred Insurance Turkey Bowl had a small and humble beginning nine years ago as a thank you to business partners. It has since evolved into a huge hospitality, networking and charitable event. The goal for 2015 was to raise $30,000 for Childcan, and thanks to the partnership and generosity of more than 100 business partners, the goal was surpassed and a new record was set at $37,210.

Every year, we dream it bigger and better, and every year we make it happen.

The Turkey Bowl is a special day for our business partners, as we invite them to connect with us on a mission to raise money for Childcan, an amazing organization that helps families cope with childhood cancer.

Our biggest transformation came

from partnering with BELFOR Property Restoration as our Signature Event Partner. The move has substantially helped take it to another level, and we are very grateful for their continued partnership. Our total raised for the past four years has now surpassed $100,000.

The Turkey Bowl is a fun day with a special purpose, and it is proof that many hands joining together can accomplish something truly outstanding.

The 2015 edition continued with a significant digital presence, which had commenced a year earlier. There were special partner contributions from Boss Hog's Smokin Chophouse, Holiday Inn & Suites, New Era Graphix, Scherba's Great Floors, Carr's Shell and Bloomers at the Market, which certainly made enhancements and are appreciated. We welcomed the Forest City Volleyball Club 17U Girls Green Team as our guest hospitality team for the event. They had a great expe-

rience and earned funding for their team through their participation.

Preferred Insurance proudly displays All-Star its new Turkey Bowl fundraising Partners who record of $37,210 for Childcan made special excess donations beyond regular partnership amounts included: Hagerty Classic Car Insurance ($800), CARSTAR London East ($1,000), CARSTAR London West ($1,000), Downtown Auto Glass ($1,000), Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($2,000), and Gore Mutual Insurance Company ($3,000).

We are extremely proud and grateful to have such fantastic partners.

Together, we raised $37,210 in one amazing day!

Turkey Bowl 2015 proved to be the best one yet, and thanks to the generosity of numerous business partners, the event for Childcan smashed its fundraising goal.

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These community stories proudly sponsored by

Smith to guide LSC Submitted by London Sports Council Bill Smith is the new Executive Director of the London Sports Council, and he’s been serving in this position since November, busy planning for the new year and organizing all of the many committees under the LSC umbrella.

The London Sports Council oversees the London chapter of KidSport, the London Sports Hall of Fame, the Volunteer Recognition Evening, and the Accessible Sports Council. These committees are all made up of volunteers from London.

“We work very hard on all of these committees, but we put extra effort into the KidSport committee, because that

is the program that provides grants to financially disadvantaged families so that their children can participate in sport,” said Smith. “KidSport is a registered charity and has helped more than 200 families this year alone.”

The London Sports Council has organized the Jim Allen KidSport golf tournament for the past two years to help supply the necessary funds to give back to the families and children in the London community.

“Our tournament will be held again in 2016 on June 8 at The Oaks Golf Club, and we're looking to increase our numbers and our financial results too,” Smith

Bill Smith is the man in charge at the London Sports Council, having been named Executive Director in November

said. “Another of our major events will be the 2nd annual Volunteer Recognition Night on April 13 at Western Fair District.”

For more information, please visit the London Sports Council website at www. londonsportscouncil.ca.

www.londonsportscouncil.ca

Ally Carr Forest City Volleyball Club Ally Carr is a well-rounded Grade 11 student at Parkside Collegiate Institute. She has competed in cross country, Field Hockey and Badminton, and she was the winner of the Jr. Athlete of the Year. She has earned multiple trips to OFSAA for Track & Field, and tied the Parkside high jump record and broke the long jump record.

Her favourite sport above all else has become volleyball. She is a proud member of the Forest City Volleyball Club 17U Girls Green Team where she was last season’s MVP and captain this season. She has captured gold at numerous tournaments on the OVA Beach Volleyball Tour, and earned provincial gold medals as back-to-back Ontario championships. She is a two-time captain and MVP of the Parkside Jr. Volleyball Team, and is captain of the Senior team this year.

Ally is an honour roll student and vice president of the Student Athletic Association. She spearheaded a Jeans for Teens in need collection drive, volunteered for St. Joseph’s hospice, peer tutoring, and with her teammates from FCVC has participated in an event the past two years that has raised over $67,000 for Childcan. Congratulations, Ally!

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LondonSportsXpress

A passion shared

By Richelle Hirlehey for Dance Extreme For many, Dance Extreme is a home away from home. Most children are enrolled into dance classes at the request of their parents who are looking to try something active and creative. Others, like our studio babies, are enrolled because their parents love to dance and they want to share their passion with their children.

Five of Dance Extreme’s Director’s and Faculty have children who have embraced Dance Extreme as their own, just like their moms. This isn’t always the case when you enroll your child into something that you loved as a child. But these five moms have been blessed to share the love of dance with their children.

Owner and Artistic Director of Dance Extreme, Rebecca Brettingham-Filice, and her daughter, Isabela, have had Dance Extreme in their family since 1998, well before Isabela was born. When asked about her involvements at the studio that her mom owns, Bella says honestly, “It can be hard. When my mom goes somewhere special with the studio, I get to go with her. I spend a lot of time with her so we get a lot of mommy/Bella bonding time. But when she goes somewhere boring, I have to go to those places too. I get to meet a lot of cool people/ teachers.”

Mom Rebecca loves having dance to share with her daughter.

Andrea Gittens and Ella Hirlehey

“We get to spend a lot of time together. Sometimes I feel bad, as my expecElla Hirlehey tations for her in and outside the classroom are higher. We talk about it and she understands, but it can be tough at times. We have amazing memories of trip and experiences that we’ve had together through the studio, and for me that's priceless.”

As with any activity that you or your child are deeply devoted to, there will be ups and downs, especially when both are involved. But they can also be deeply rewarding.

Assistant Director, Richelle Hirlehey, shares her love of the art of dance with her 6-year-old daughter Ella. When asked what she loves best about being with her mom at Dance Extreme, Ella says she “loves to see her friends in class, and loves to dance,” because she “has such great teachers including my mom and it is fun!”

Hirlehey feels the same way about having her daughter Ella involved.

“I always said I would let her try a variety of activities, and we have, but she loves to dance and that makes my heart happy.”

Zoë Brown, 7 years old and daughter of Megan Alfano, faculty member for the past four years, says she “loves dancing at Dance Extreme! All the teachers are fun, but dancing with my mom is the best, because I love her and I love dancing and I love doing it together.”

Miss Megan feels the

Isabela Filice

Zoe Brown. Photo by David Leyes

same way. She too loves sharing the gift of dance with her daughter.

“It's wonderful to see something that gives me so much happiness affect her in the same way. I'm grateful we are able to share something we love together!”

Ten-year-old Zoe Lacey, daughter of Faculty member Miss Andrea Gittens, also shares this same love of dance as the others. She says that if she has had a bad day, when she comes to Dance Extreme she feels free to be who she really is.

“My mom gets it. It’s why I want to stay committed to dance and why I love it so much. So, it’s so awesome to share this with her.”

Ty Novak, age 11, also grew up at his mom Miss Jeanette Novak’s place of work, and he likes dance because it is a good way to get his mind off of bad stuff that happened and to let out his emotions.

“I like that my mom can help with my dance stuff, which makes it a lot easier since she is a teacher at Dance Extreme. I even was lucky enough to have her as my teacher for one year and she was able to give me pointers.”

It is a gift to have your children share in something that you love, and we hope that as you choose activities for your children that you and your child find the same joy that our Dance Extreme Faculty and their children have found in dance.

www.danceextreme.com

Richelle Hirlehey and Ella Hirlehey during dance class

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Andrea Gittens instructing warm-up

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Accessible Partners

Accessible Sports News Submitted by George Bray Sports and London Blizzard Sledge Hockey

George Bray… Hockey and so much more…

You have to be here, to see it, to believe it!

Hockey may be what most people think of when they hear the name George Bray, but if you are part of our association, you know that it is so much more than just hockey!

What are some words that come to mind when people think of George Bray?

Inclusive – this is a league for kids and adults with intellectual and developmental needs. Everyone is made to feel welcome and part of the family. Here, everyone is Equal.

Friendship – in a world of special needs, making friends is not always easy.

At George Bray, friendships abound!

Diversity is welcomed. Heck, it is embraced! Here, everyone is Equal.

Life Skills – we teach hockey, sure … but we also teach life skills. Respect is given and taught. How to respect your teammates, your coaches and your family. Here, everyone is Equal.

Compassion – we have a saying here

London Blizzard Sledge Hockey

On January 28, 2005, the London Blizzard held its very first sledge hockey tournament with 28 teams competing in two divisions. This year marks the 12th annual tournament with 44 teams from across Canada and the United States participating. These teams range in skill levels and age, and play in six divisions.

The tournament is held every year at the Western Fair District Sports Centre, where the London Blizzard also hosts home games on weekends and rigorous practices Wednesday nights. The London Blizzard has two teams playing in the tournament: one each in Intermediate B Junior Sledge Development (JSD). Last January, the Intermediates won Bronze in the “C” division, playing well against some tough competition. The JSD worked hard and placed fourth in their division of nine teams.

This season, both teams have been

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at GBSA, You have to be here, to see it, to believe it! Players from opposing teams stopping to make sure an opponent is okay when falling down, congratulating the goalie from the opposing team after she stopped a great scoring chance.

Here, everyone is Equal.

Confidence – something that most of our players lack when it comes to their day-to-day lives. Out on the rink, it is a totally different story! Shy, introverted kids come to life on the ice. Our amazing volunteers spend countless hours developing skills and providing positive reinforcement to our players. Here, everyone is Equal.

FUN! – It may be the last thing on the list, but it is one of the most important!

Our players have a great time – not just on the ice but in the extra activities that the GBSA participates in. We participate in the annual Santa Claus parade, we go to

sporting events at UWO like football and hockey games, we have an annual banquet where every player gets to celebrate the achievements of the year!

It is never too late to register, we accept new players at any time, and we also have an Equipment Loaner Program to help get it all going. For more information about the George Bray Sport Association, check out our website at www.georgebraysports.ca, and like us on Facebook.

Or contact Murray Howard directly at 519200-8422 or murrayhoward@execulink. com.

www.georgebraysports.ca

you are interested in coming out to see working hard at practices and are hoping to improve their results at the tournament the team or want to try out, practices are held Wednesday evenings at 6:45 p.m.

January 22-24. The Sledge Development until 8:30 p.m. Contact Todd Sargeant team has played well in league action for more information: toddsargeant@ so far and has great hopes of an imhotmail.com. proved result in January. They have a balanced attack and the Intermediates www.londonblizzard.com had some players move up from the JSD team this season. James Dunn has been great at scoring and controlling the puck, and also made Sledge Team Ontario in September. Mackenzie Spong has played well so far, and her tenacious style helped her land a spot on the Canadian Women’s National team as their youngest member. Dylan Kett is also in his first season and brings a wealth of experience to the Blizzard.

The London Blizzard is always open to having memThis year marks the 12th annual London Blizzard sledge hockey bers of the community come tournament, and it will feature 44 teams from across Canada and the United States out and try sledge hockey. If competing at the Western Fair District Sports Centre from Jan. 22-24.

LondonSportsXpress

sportsfiles

Rugby is my life

me humble.

4. Character & Respect – There are lots of opportunities in sports to ‘play dirty’ or throw cheap shots. But rugby is about respect. Winning with integrity and merit is paramount. This attitude transfers into everyday life and makes me a better person.

5. Inclusivity – No matter your race, religion, sexual orientation or body type, you’re welcome at the rugby pitch. We recognize that having a diverse team is in everyone’s best interest.

6. Confidence – It’s an unfortunate reality, but as a female I need to be aware that I may need to defend myself.

Because of rugby, I lack the vulnerability that attackers look for in a victim and feel much more confident in my ability to defend myself.

7. Family – Knowing there’s a large group of people willing to do almost anything for me is overwhelming. Whether it’s an everyday issue or a death in the family, my rugby family has been there. This has to be the reason I’m most grateful for rugby in my life.

By Margaret Dow I was un-athletic and 200 pounds when my high school started a girls rugby team. My friend asked if I wanted to try out. I laughed at first, but reluctantly agreed to go. That was 17 years ago, and I can’t imagine what my life would be like if I hadn’t gone that day.

Rugby touches everything I do, and I wouldn’t change it for anything. Here’s why …

1. Fitness – I’d never gone for a light jog, never mind play 80 minutes of an intense game! Gradually, I made healthier food choices and achieved a fitness level I’ve been able to maintain for years. I’ve challenged my body to do things I never thought possible.

2. Hard work – Working harder and giving more will get you the results you want. You have to give everything, otherwise you’re going to get walked on; you have to be prepared to do one more rep, one more sprint, one more tackle …

3. Teamwork – Working with others to achieve a common goal isn’t always easy, but when it comes together it’s always rewarding. Teamwork has taught me patience, understanding, and empathy, and has kept

www.londonrugbyclub.com

Climbing builds confidence Submitted by Junction Climbing Centre With the darkness of winter abounding, we quickly start to dream and plan for warmer months ahead. The Junction is your summer destination for youth camps. We offer unmatched climbing

facilities and an exciting, challenging program ideal for kids looking for a break from traditional sports.

Campers build confidence and trust as they learn the skills of belaying, knots, harnesses and climbing. They will be challenged

physically and mentally by our soaring 35-foot walls, and engaging climbing terrain. Our staff work hard to find the right mix of challenges for your child.

The Junction is London's premier climbing destination. It is bright, clean, and centrally located in London. To find out more about summer camps at the Junction, visit www.junctionclimbing.com, email ryan@junctionlclimbing.com, or call Ryan at 519-438-1717.

www.junctionclimbing.com

Summer Camp Dates July 14 to 18 July 28 to August 1 August 11 to 15 August 25 to 29 Cost: $275 More and more, climbing is being seen as an activity that can provide an intense and focused workout

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and exhibition games that run from October to April. During that time, we will practice two times per week for a total of 60 practices. Our program’s belief is that you should practice twice as much as you play at a young age. While winning is our goal, it isn’t the reason we play. Skill development, knowledge and an even greater love of the game is what our true focus is for this season!

By Troy Rick, St. Thomas Shock Basketball

Matthew Richards, Ethan St. Thomas Shock Basketball is a Bell, Mitchell Fillmore, not-for-profit program that has been Owen Hardy, Alex Foshay, Collin Banman, providing St. Thomas youth with THE Luke Henderson, Carter Richardson and best fundamental and skill developing Christian Vecchio. The team is coached basketball program since 2003. The by myself and Tyler Dawdy. organization has done this by providOur season will consist of 25 to 30 basing both a development program and a www.shockbasketball.com ketball games, including six tournaments competitive program that offers basketball to all youth from the beginner to the advanced.

The competitive side of the program is developed using tryouts from the participants who are attending the clinics.

I have the pleasure of coaching the Major Bantam Boys team that consists of grade 7 and 8 boys. This year’s team is comprised of the following players: Niko Dennis, Clark Renaud, Jack Stubbs, Jack Tunstill, Max McCaulley, Tiekae Shock Major Atom Boys 2014: (Left to right): Damian Dawdy, Collin Banman, Charlie Shock Major Bantam Boys 2014: Front (Left to right): Ethan O’Danski, Cole Verhulst, Cooper Magri, Christian Vecchio, Jonathan Zhakata, Jack Tunstill, Niko Dennis (upper), Bryer Stock, Jonathan Hudson, Ethan Baell. Middle: Teylan Fairbanks, Mitchell Fillmore, Taye Dillard, Owen Waterhouse, Stock (lower), Owen Waterhouse, Max McCaulley, Jack Stubbs, Tyler Cayen, Tiekae Donald, Owen Hardy, Nate McCaulley, Mitchell Pallister. Back: Coach Troy Rick, Malachi Ndur, Dillard, Alex Foshay (back), Clark Renaud. Coaches: Deryl Dawdy and Rhonda Dawdy

Luke Henderson, Coach Tyler Dawdy

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Road Trips from London and Area to watch Pro Sports Mar 13

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Will Lightning surge in 2015-16?

Submitted by the London Lightning Although the London Lightning season starts later than usual this year, the players are more prepared than ever. A grueling training camp led by new head coach Kyle Julius has pitted player against player, and even made Julius’ job a difficult one to make the final roster.

Surely, some new names will replace old ones. Some veterans will keep their spots The London Lightning (and their fans at Budweiser Gardens) are hoping the championship trophy returns to the Forest City when all is said and done in 2015-16. over inexperienced rookies. What’s cerThe fifth anniversary of the NBL promtain, though, is that Julius will choose the ises to be a whirlwind of highlight reel players he believes give the Lightning the action. best chance to capture a third title. www.lightningbasketball.ca It wasn’t long ago that the London Lightning were kings of the National Basketball League of Canada (NBL). A championship in its inaugural season in 2011-2012 was followed up by a promise from Coach Micheal Ray Richardson that they would repeat. Sure enough, the Lightning hoisted a second trophy at the end of the final buzzer of the 2012-2013 campaign.

Recent years, though, have been unkind to the team. A conference finals loss at the hands of their rivals, the Windsor Express, and an early exit from the playoffs last season have left a sour taste. In fact, the Express have mirrored the Lightning by winning back-to-back championships, the celebration happening a few hours down the 401.

It’s the most anticipated season of the NBL since it began. Commissioner Dave Magley is now in charge, steering the league in the right direction for the future. The league has also welcomed a new team to Ontario, the Niagara River Lions. Only the Express and the Lightning have won championships so far; will a new winner be crowned this year?

Lightning fans and players alike certainly hope not. They’re looking to turn the tables on their Ontario adversaries to bring the cup back to the Forest City. @SportsXpressLON

Home Schedule all games at Bud Gardens at 7pm (* = 2pm)

Jan 02 vs Orangeville A's Jan 03 vs Windsor Express* Jan 14 vs Niagara River Lions Jan 23 vs Orangeville A's Jan 30 vs Moncton Miracles Jan 31 vs Island Storm* Feb 04 vs Saint John Mill Rats Feb 06 vs Windsor Express Feb 10 vs. Niagara River Lions Feb 18 vs Windsor Express Feb 24 vs Niagara River Lions Mar 05 vs Orangeville A's Mar 19 vs Halifax Hurricanes Mar 30 vs Orangeville A's Apr 02 vs Orangeville A's Apr 06 vs Niagara River Lions Apr 16 vs Orangeville A's Apr 30 vs Windsor Express

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sportsfiles

Middlesex club busy in pool Submitted by Middlesex Swimming The Middlesex Swimming club was busy in the pool to close out 2015, enjoying a successful last couple of months competing both in London and on the road.

In late November, the water polo club played an exhibition game against the Western Mustangs to help prepare the university squad for its Ontario

University Athletics (OUA) championship.

The Mustangs beat Middlesex, 16-8, in the friendly, before going on to finish 5th at the provincial event after a 12-5 victory over Queens University (they finished sixth in 2014).

In early December, the Middlesex water polo team traveled to Waterloo for the Kitchener-Waterloo Classic, registering two teams into the tournament: Under 18 and Under 12. Both teams showed great improvement, and the new U12 squad won its first game in team history, beating Guelph 11-3.

Meanwhile, the Middlesex swimmers were in Windsor for the The Middlesex Swimming club was busy both at meets and water Border City Invitational, which the polo tourneys heading into the Christmas break. club co-hosted with the Windsor

The Middlesex water polo teams traveled to Waterloo in December for the Kitchener-Waterloo Classic. There, the new U12 squad played and won its first match in team history.

Aquatic Club. The meet attracted teams from across the province and from the United States. The Middlesex swim team came away with an impressive 104 medals (40 gold, 30 silver, and 34 bronze) while setting 41 new club records. The team also increased its number of provincial qualifiers to 10.

Finally, before Christmas, several Middlesex Masters swimmers headed to Toronto for the Masters North York Gators Pentathlon for a fun and exciting competition before taking a break for the Christmas holidays.

Interested in learning more about Middlesex Swimming? Contact us for more information: info@middlesexswimming.ca.

www.middlesexswimming.ca

Middlesex Masters attended the North York Pentathlon on Dec 13. Both Terri MacDougall and Erika Hendrick (pictured above) swept their age group winning 5 gold medals each.

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Synchro shows impress Submitted by London Synchronized Swimming Club On Saturday, December 12 at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, over 300 friends, family and community members had an enjoyable night as London Synchro Club amazed with a variety of routines. Performances included Novice Competitive, Provincial Competitive, Masters, and University Team swimmers.

The December water show is the first opportunity for swimmers to showcase their talent and skills before the beginning of the competitive season. For many swimmers, the water show is their first opportunity to perform in front of a crowd. And while some routines are not yet finished, it didn’t stop our swimmers’ enthusiasm and excitement!

To date, London Synchro Club has a Novice program of over 30 swimmers making up several teams with age ranges from 6 to 14 years of age. Our Novice program swimmers, after only six weeks of instruction, have come an exceptional

distance in learning the techniques of the sport, and our coaches couldn’t have been more proud.

The Novice program is a wonderful opportunity for swimmers to progress their synchronized swimming skills over a full season. They have fun learning and enhancing their skills while working as a team. It’s also an excellent stepping stone for girls who may be interested in a competitive stream, as the program introduces the girls to two competitions

in 2016.

It was easy to see that the girls had a great time during the performances, and LSC is proud of their enthusiasm, commitment and hard work! Way to go, LSC!

www.londonsynchroclub.ca

Before Christmas, the London Synchro Club impressed audiences with performances from their athletes ranging from Novice and Provincial Competitive, to Masters and University Team lev

@SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

LAC closes out year strong Submitted by the London Aquatic Club The London Aquatic Club concluded its 2015 fall season by sending 56 swimmers to the Pointe Claire AA/AAA

Invitational, where the team placed 5th overall and 3rd on the men's side in the AA meet, led by Samantha Fish who earned three podium finishes in the 14-year-old girls category, as well as by Michael Quigley, Bram Majoor and Lochlan Goodreau, who were also multiple individual medalists.

That same weekend, LAC had

15 swimmers compete at the Winter Provincial Championships in Etobicoke, placing 12th overall out of 80 clubs. Once again, the team was led by the impressive Maggie MacNeil, who claimed three provincial titles. William Stewart, meanwhile, also swam to victory in one event.

londonaquaticclub.ca

Nora at the 2015 Pointe Claire AAA Invitational after her great 200 butterfly victory

LAC racing smart and tough in Pointe Claire 2015

Nathalie and Sabrina at the 2015 Ontario Winter Championships

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A successful start!

Submitted by Forest City Diving Club and photo by Samantha Fung The Forest City Diving Club opened its 2015/2016 competitive season by attending an Internationally recognized dive meet in Montreal, Que. FCDC brought home three medals, as Joshua won a gold medal on the 3m, while Faith captured two bronze medals (1m and 3m).

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Katelyn, meanwhile, all placed www.stthomasford.com top 12 in groups with over 20 competitors. Overall, it was a very in Winnipeg, 2017. successful event. As we move into the This year, a unique opportunity has New Year, many of our divers have been arisen for some of the FCDC athletes. invited to training camps. The purpose Three diving clubs in Canada have been of these camps is to allow the invited to attend a training and competidivers complete focus without tion camp in Shenzhen, China. CAMO, distraction to work on skills to Dive Calgary and FCDC, each with a coach improve their diving. Coaches and six divers, will embark on a two-week are also invited to learn various training camp where they will learn from techniques to help progress elite Chinese coaches, experience culture their athletes towards becoming and make new friends. elite divers.

Winter session has started, and regisKatelyn has been invited trations are still open. If you have a child to attend a Dive Canada High who is interested in diving, consider signPerformance Training Camp ing up for a learn to dive session or a week in Montreal, Que. As well, five of camp during March Break. FCDC will divers (Al’x, Joshua, Faith, host its Invitational dive meet on February Anika and Camryn) will head to 27-28. Please come and be a spectator, it Toronto for the Canada Games may spark a new passion!

Bound for China: Coach Luda Zakharenko, Katelyn Fung, Camryn www.forestcitydiving.com Hughes, Joshua Inglis, Anika Holland, Faith Zacharias and Al'x Pierre. training camp which takes place

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LVC celebrates Christmas!

Submitted by London Volleyball Club It was a sea of green and red at Saunders Secondary School, as the London Volleyball Club celebrated two big parties. The party rang in the holiday season and marked the end of the first session of Timbits and Feed the Fire. Santa and Mrs. Claus spread some

holiday cheer with the LVC Timbits and handed out Timbit photo-cards and Fire Wear! The party roared on as the 13U to 18U athletes took the courts for two hours of frenzied 2-on-2 and 3-on-3 Champions Court.

More than 400 LVC athletes attended

the two parties, which served as an awesome final club event in 2015!

Happy Holidays, and let’s make 2016 the best year of LVC Fire yet! #weareLVC

www.lvcfire.com

The London Volleyball Club welcomed more than 400 of its members to Christmas parties in December, celebrating the festive season and also a successful end to the first session of Timbits and Feed the Fire.

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sportsfiles

Sharks attack this winter Submitted by London Sharks Volleyball The London Sharks Volleyball Club continues to show its strength in developing future volleyball players. The developmental programs, which focus on game fundamentals within a fun environment, have always been great and are now getting stronger. The Ontario Volleyball Association has selected five clubs in the province to launch a brand new program called SMASHBALL, and the London Sharks have been selected to carry it out in London.

SMASHBALL For boys aged 7 to 11. It’s a fast, fun, strong and dynamic form of volleyball. It starts on January 17 and runs for 8 weeks.

Spaces are limited.

LITTLE SHARKS For kids aged 4-9 with no volleyball experience. Kids will learn volleyball

FUNdamentals in a fun environment with drills and games following the LTDA (Long Term Athlete Development) model from the Canadian Sports For Life (CS4L). Also, they will work on their SAQ (Strength, Agility and Quickness), which is great for all sports. The program re-starts January 10.

our competitive teams.

SHARK TANK-DEVELOPMENTAL LEAGUES This program is excellent for 11 to 15-year-olds who are new to the game or have limited experience. They can learn and improve their skills in order to be ready for a competitive team or simply to play for the love of the game! This is also the most recommended program for those boys and girls looking to join a school team but are hesitant about their skill level. The Developmental Leagues will help them build the confidence necessary for those school tryouts.

For more information on these programs, please go to our website, www. londonsharks.ca, or email us at info@ londonsharks.ca.

SHARKS ACADEMY For 8 to 11-year-olds with some volleyball experience that are ready to fine tune their volleyball skills, have a lot of fun, and improve their teamwork skills.

The program returns on January 6 and the Academy practices Wednesdays and Sundays. We follow the Volleyball Canada and FIVB recommendations for training with this age group. Excellent for Little Sharks graduates or similar programs, and graduates from this program are ready for

www.londonsharks.ca

The focus is on fundamentals and the future for the London Sharks Volleyball Club, which has various programs to choose from and will introduce SMASHBALL to some of its players this winter.

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Early success for FCVC! Submitted by Forest City Volleyball Club Thank you to all the parents and supporters of this season's Forest City Volleyball Club U16 and U17 Girls teams.

The technical development and coaching they've received over the years is definitely showing on the court! You can keep track of all FCVC teams through the website at www.forestcityvolleyball.com.

London's U17 Forest City Girls Green team had a successful start to the season with a 5th place finish at the U17 Provincial FCVC huddle Cup

and brought home the Gold at an U18 Provincial Cup tourney! Upcoming competitions include a trip to Lexington, Kentucky to play in the Bluegrass Tournament with over 350 teams entered!

The team is working hard to peak at the end of the season when the Provincial Championships and the National Championships (hosted in Edmonton, Alberta) are contested. To offset the travel costs, the girls have been gratefully sponsored by WINMAR Property Restoration Specialists and several other local businesses. The team would also like to thank Preferred Insurance and BELFOR Property Restoration for their support and allowing the team to once again be involved in the Childcan

fundraiser in November.

Good luck this season, FC U17 Katelyn Grasman (11) and Hannah Petcoff (10) with the block Green!

London's U16 Forest City Girls Green team has started off the 2015/2016 season with a bang! In their first month of competition, the athletes won Gold playing up in 17U, and repeated their success in mid-December with another Gold achievement in the U17 Championship Tournament. The road ahead to Nationals is a long and tough one, but with hard work, mental toughness, and thousands of repetitions, this team will definitely be a force to be reckoned with.

FCVC 16U team: Back row (left to right): Assistant coach Kylie Wasser, assistant coach Brad West, FCVC medalists: Front row (left to right): Leah Dunlop, Ally Brouwer, Corina Holly Thompson, Kiana Huggins, Iris Fletcher, Maggie Greenfield, Brianne Camirand, head coach Simpson, Jaime McKee, Jordan Pranger. Back row: Joffre Ribout, Jason McKee, Kiana Huggins preparing to ace Emily Sparks, Danielle Morrelli, Ally Carr, Ainsley Acton, Amye Pellow. Absent: Peter Gauld. Front row: Josie Heeney, Emily Pratt, Katelyn Grasman, Nicole Nguyen, Natalie her serve Ashlyn Kadlecik Lyons, Hannah Petcoff and Megan Nevett

forestcityvolleyball.com | facebook: FCVCLondon | twitter: @go_fcvc | instagram: forestcityvolleyball

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sportsfiles

The year of performance and development

By Tyler Schepens In 2016, two organizations come together to create a phenomenal golf experience for golfers of all levels. The London Junior Golf Development Centre and Performance Golf London are set to provide opportunities for London and surrounding area residents to grow their

Brian Gallant. Brian and his team look forward to guiding golfers of all levels. To follow the launch of the programs, and for more information, visit www.golfbetter.ca.

skills in the game of golf. With a new indoor location at 711 Oxford St. W. and the outdoor location at Fire Rock Golf Club, these two organizations provide support in all aspects of the game.

There are several opportunities available throughout the year for both organizations. A brief list below notes the 2016 programs.

Team London battles in Florida at National Championship The Maple Leaf Junior Tour’s National Championship saw two local juniors compete with some of the best players across Canada. Carson Dethomasis and Cam Kellett enjoyed preparing and executing their game at Reunion Golf Resort in Kissimmee, Florida. Under the guidance of awarding winning PGA coach Brian Gallant, Carson battled hard without his best game, while the week was highlighted by Cam recording his lowest tournament score in his career. We are proud of you both!

Performance Golf London • • • •

Golf lessons Indoor golf Winter Indoor leagues Family golf

London Junior Golf Development Centre

Under the guidance of coach Brian Gallant, junior golfers Carson Dethomasis and Cam Kellett competed against some of the country’s best at the Maple Leaf Junior Tour’s National Championship at Reunion Golf Resort in Kissimmee, Florida.

• • • •

Active Start Junior League Junior Camps Competitive Team London Leading the way for both organizations is PGA of Canada teaching professional

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Avoid protein spiking Submitted by Sportmax Nutrition A customer came into the store recently expressing concern about protein quality after reading a CBC Marketplace article about ‘protein spiking’ (sometimes called ‘amino spiking’ or ‘amino acid spiking’).

This happens when an unscrupulous manufacturer adds cheaper amino acids to a protein powder in order to bring the cost of the protein down. However, what appears on the nutrition panel might then not be the whole truth.

Protein costs (whey in particular) have risen dramatically in the last few years, so it’s understandable that consumers might be looking to reduce what they pay, and unfortunately some manufacturers have cut corners to satisfy/fool those consumers.

On the positive side, most protein manufacturers remain honest, and it’s only a minority that have been accused of cheating. I say ‘accused’ because at this point nothing has been definitively proven yet.

Don’t worry, Sportmax Nutrition has your back regarding the whole protein spiking issue, but be wise when spending your hard-earned dollars on protein, because you’re getting exactly what you pay for.

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Kevin DeLuca is the protein guru at Sportmax Nutrition

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sportsfiles

TGA London, YMCA join hands!

Submitted by TGA London – Premier Junior Golf TGA of London -- providers of North America’s largest after school golf and life skills programs for kids aged 4 to 14 – have joined hands with the YMCA of

•

Western Ontario to deliver extraordinary golf and life skills lessons and experiences.

Certified TGA coaches will deliver the full compliment of TGA golf enrichment classes, life skills lessons and summer camps throughout 2016 at YMCA gymnasiums, golf courses and golf practice facilities.

TGA London and the YMCA share a common set of core values that will ensure the longevity and success of this unique joint venture, aimed

at not only producing better young golfers but also incredible citizens.

It’s more than just golf! Children who enrol in the TGA/YMCA golf programs will also be taught the fundamentals of respect, caring, responsibility and integrity. Kids will learn the proper grip plus how to putt, chip and drive the golf ball in a safe, fun and educational environment.

TGA of London and the YMCA of Western Ontario are thrilled to bring the entire TGA curriculum to the parents and children of London and area and look forward to forging new relationships while introducing current members to this outstanding new program.

Details of this program can be found at www.PlayTGA.ca/London or at the registration desks of your local YMCA branch.

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TGA of London and the YMCA of Western Ontario have partnered to provide young players with programs that will help produce better young golfers and citizens

@SportsXpressLON

www.playtga.ca/london

LondonSportsXpress.ca

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sportsfiles

National champs, local leaders Submitted by Power Cheer Gym The late fall season at the Power Cheer Gym was packed with competition successes and a ton of team building both inside the gym and in the community.

pcgvipers

@PCGVipers

The Western Mustangs swept the Large Coed and All-Girl divisions at the 2015 Collegiate Nationals in Toronto. It was a hard fought finish for a first National title for the All-Girl program and an unbelievable 30th win for the powerhouse coed ‘Stangs. Both teams will head to the CheerSport Nationals in Atlanta in midFebruary, where the Coed team has won four previous times.

Power Cheer Gym is home to four collegiate-aged teams (Fanshawe Black Falcons and Crazy Fish, along with the Mustangs), and is the number one training facility in Canada for athletes wishing to pursue the sport after graduation from high school.

The Viper teams roared out of the gate early this year with solid placings in Youth (ages 7-11), Junior (11-14) and

Youth Vipers at Fall Classic

The Western Mustangs cheerleaders pose for a team shot at the most recent National Championships

Senior (14-18) categories at the Cheer Evo Fall Classic in Toronto. In December, all nine Viper teams, including the Special Needs squad, competed at the Power Cheer Christmas Competition in Strathroy, a charity fundraiser with proceeds going to the Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

We’re frequently asked, “can we still join a team now that the season has started?” – and the answer is always YES! Every team and ability level has openings, and the gym offers a big discount on registration for athletes wishing to get involved mid-year. Interested athletes/parents are invited to call the gym (519)-667-0565 or drop in any day of the week to tour the facility and even participate in a team workout!

www.powercheergym.com

The Junior Viper ‘Pink Practice’ for Breast Cancer Awareness month

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sportsfiles

A Royal Family

By Brenda Pinelli, CheerStrike parent As a former competitive high school cheerleader, I am very excited to once again be immersed in the world of cheer.

Cheerleading has gone through a huge transformation since my time, and it is now recognized for the true sport that it is. Three years ago when I heard that a new cheer club, the CheerStrike Royals, was opening in the north end of the city, I couldn’t wait to get Aislynn, my then 5-year-old daughter involved. I was even more thrilled when I found out that it was the CCH cheerleading coaches that were opening it. As a Western Alum, and having completed a teaching practicum at CCH, I was well aware of the calibre of cheerleader that London produced.

As a CheerStrike cheerleader, my daughter has gone from not being able to do a cartwheel in her first season to now working on her back handsprings.

The coaching staff at CheerStrike are

very supportive and encouraging, and developed between the teammates and parents, both inside and outside of the the dedication and level of responsibility gym. We truly are a Royal Family! of their young staff amazes me. It is also fantastic to be involved with a group of www.cheerstrikeroyals.com parents that are so enthusiastic and positive about the progress made by all of the athletes at CheerStrike.

This year, I was honoured to be selected as the Royal Ambassador (team mom) for the Mini Monarchs. It has been wonderful to see the Brenda Pinelli poses with her daughter, Aislynn, a proud CheerStrike Royal bonds that have

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Heat spreading like fire Submitted by Amie Matte, Head Coach, London Heat London Heat Cheerleading started the 2015-2016 season in July and added an additional team for the new year. We are so excited to be in our ninth season and continuing to grow! London Heat has a team for everyone and for every level, offering programming for athletes aged 3 to 18 years old. Our 11 teams can accommodate any skill level and commitment. More recently, we also started a pre-competitive program allowing families to participate without the travel

commitment.

Our teams and coaches have been working hard for the past four months to prepare for their first competition of the season. Five of our teams traveled to Kalahari in Ohio the first weekend in November, and they all set FIRE to the competition floor! A special congratulations goes to our Mini team, Ignite (8 years and younger) who placed first, won grand champions, the “Rocking Routine Award,” AND a paid bid to US Finals! This

team of all new athletes prove that hard work and dedication at any level will lead to success!

Our Tumble & Cheer recreational program is now open for registration for the Winter 2016 Session starting in January.

Registration is available online or in our office.

For more information on any of our teams or programs, please email Jamie at londonheatjamie@yahoo.ca.

londongymnasticsacademy.com

London Heat Cheerleading has something for everyone within its program that now boasts 11 teams

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Submitted by The Little Gym of London Want your child to succeed? They need EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE We should be your first stop when choosing programing for your child, and here’s why ‌ At The Little Gym, we see this all the time. The child that has never left his/ her parents’ side, or is uncomfortable being independent or making a decision.

A child that is nervous around other kids, or has a hard time handling their emotions and struggles to calm themselves down. These are the kids we want to help the most. Once their emotions are in check, their minds are open to learning, and their confidence SOARS, both in the gym and later in life.

What is “EI�?

stress hormones and other physiological indicators of emotional arousal. Their parents and teachers alike rate these children as having fewer behavioural problems, such as rudeness or aggressiveness. These children can also pay more attention, and so are more effective learners.

Another reason EI is an important subject is because of the impact low emotional intelligence can have on children in academics. Almost all students who do poorly in school lack one or more of the elements of EI. The most common cause of disability among teenagers is mental illness. One out of three teenagers report symptoms of depression.

One of our goals at The Little Gym is to help parents understand their child’s developmental stages and help parents understand critical developmental milestones, like Emotional Intelligence.

We start young, at 4 months, and there is a reason for it (see chart). If you are interested in reading the full article, write us at tlglondoncan@thelittlegym. com. There are still spaces in classes for January. If you have a child starting school in September, we should be your first stop in School Readiness!

Visit tlglondoncan.com to view our full schedule.

According to Daniel Goleman, emotional intelligence is “regulating one’s own feelings, developing a rich emotional life, understanding others’ emotions, having empathy and compassion for others and working well with others.� It is the balance between the head and the heart.

Why does “EI� matter?

Emotional intelligence is more than just primitive brain function ‌ it represents the core of who we are. This sense of self is a filter for how we see the world, what we think about the world, and how we behave.

One can be academically intelligent and emotionally lacking. And the reverse is true as well. Many of our most

successful creative geniuses, busi†‚ ‡  ˆ  nesspeople, and athletes under achieved in schools that empha „� sized language tasks and math, ‚  ƒ and excluded artistic capacities ­  � € � and people skills.

When parents are emotionally Â? Â Â? Â? Â adept, compared to those who

handle feelings poorly, their chil dren are better at handling their Â

own emotions, are more effective � ­ �  � � ­ …

at soothing themselves when

upset, and get upset less often.

At The Little Gym of London, children are put in a situation where they can The children are also more relaxed flourish and develop a strong emotional intelligence (EI), which helps them in all areas of life. biologically, with lower levels of

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LondonSportsXpress

Moffatt & Powell is a proud sponsor of many teams in the community.

Great homes start at Moffatt & Powell

Sabres skating well

By SportsXpress Team The South Huron Sabres Peewee Girls C team is in good hands. Combined, their coaching staff has 15 years of experience, from minor boys hockey to senior mens.

But that staff – Head Coach Jason Schilbe, Assistants Steve Campbell and Sean McCann, and Manager Shonyn Coward – have recently switched over to coaching girls hockey, and they’re loving the challenges and the benefits of coaching the girls game.

The Sabres play in Division 1 of the Western Ontario Girls Hockey League. At the time of this writing, the girls sat in 3rd place in the standings with a record of 125-7. The team also fared well in a Stratford tournament made up of Peewee B teams from larger centres, bowing out in the semi-finals to the eventual tournament champions.

“It was a good challenge for the girls,” said the team’s head coach, Jason Schilbe. “Now, we’re South Huron Sabres Peewee Girls C team: Back row (left to right): Steve looking forward to our Pink On The Cambell, Olivia Hurley, Sherry Wedlake, Hallee Schilbe, Jason Schilbe. Middle row: Sean McCann, Shaelin McCann, Alix Coward, Gabriella Cote-WawrysZyn, Rink Tournament early in January Brooke Lewis. Front row: Kayla Orr, Cassidy Campbell, Shailyn Foran, Faith Melady, Madelyn Rau in Exeter, as well as the Walter Gretzky Tournament in Brantford.” one another to encourage and back each The girls are also working hard for other up.” a chance to qualify for the Provincial Schilbe says one of the team’s main Championships for the third year in a row goals, as set at the beginning of the year, later this year in Toronto. is to be a tough team to play against. No As far as strengths, the Sabres Peewees matter the outcome, the coach says, he are very good defensively as a team doesn’t want his team to be outworked. and don’t give up a lot of good scoring “The girls seem to use this as motivachances. The girls pride themselves on tion,” he said. “No matter what the score this mentality, working as a team. is, they want to go out and play as hard “Not only on the ice, but off the ice as as they can and not let their teammates well,” Schilbe notes. “The majority of the down. As a result, this makes it easy to girls are good friends and play multiple find positives even in the games that the sports together and are always there for girls don’t win.”

Calendar of Events Jan 5

Jan 24

London Knights Players Appearance, Jack Astors South

LMLA Try Lacrosse, Lambeth Arena Gym

Jan 6-7

Jan 29-31

Sr. Girls High School SuperVolley Volleyball Tournament, Fanshawe College

Jan 8-10

Woodstock Wildcats Tournament, Southwood & Civic Arenas

Jan 8-10

38th Jayden Elmore HL Tournament, Western Fair Sports Centre

Jan 9, Feb 20, March 26

Forest City Derby Girls in action, Western Fair Agriplex

Jan 15-16

Sr. Boys High School Roundball Basketball Tournament, Fanshawe

Jan 15-17

West London Byron Optimist AA/A & MD Tournament, Various locations

Jan 31

Mar 14

London Knights Scavenger Hunt, White Oaks Mall

Mar 19-21

Speed and Custom Car Show, Western Fair District

Feb 19-21 Feb 19-21

Mar 25-27

All Equine Show, Agriplex - Western Fair District

23rd Annual Barry Hall Girls Classic (Basketball) U15 & U19, Various locations

Mar 25

London Devilettes Girls Hockey Tournament, Western Fair Sports Centre

Feb 21

The McFarlan Rowlands Downtown 5K Run, Victoria Park

Feb 6

Feb 23

2016 Canadian Ringette Championships, Western Fair Sports Centre/Nichols Arena

Feb 5-7

Hockey Day in Canada, Kamloops

Jan 21

Feb 12-14

Blizzard Sledge Hockey Invitational, Western Fair Sports Centre

London Golf Show, Western Fair District

Family Day Adult Co-ed Soccer Tournament, BMO Centre

Feb 2

London Knights Players Appearance, Jack Astors Richmond Row

Mar 12-13

Feb 15

London Boat, Fishing and Leisure Show, Western Fair District

Feb 12-14

Jan 22-24

Feb 15

Kids Skate with the London Knights (Kid's Club), Budweiser Gardens

London Knights Players Appearance (Road Hockey Challenge), Toyota Town

L.M.H.A. Thunder Classic House League Tournament (Neil Barker Memorial Tournament), Western Fair Sports Centre 37th Annual Sports Spectacular, St. Anne's Centre in St. Thomas

To promote your event contact London@SportsXpress.ca

23rd Annual Barry Hall Girls Classic (Basketball) U10, U11, U12 & U13, Various locations Oakridge Aeros House League Classic, Oakridge Arena

Feb 12-15

The London RV Show, Agriplex - Western Fair District

LMLA Try Lacrosse, Lambeth Arena Gym

Apr 3-9

Rogers Sports Celebrity Dinner & Auction, Convention Centre

Apr 10

Feb 27-28

Run for Retina, Harris Park

Mar 6

Harlem Globetrotters World Tour, Budweiser Gardens

Mar 10-13

Forest City Road Races, Victoria Park

Maple Leaf Monster Jam Tour, Budweiser Gardens

Woodstock Recreation and Leisure Fair, Cowan Park Indoor Soccer Fields Disney on Ice, Budweiser Gardens

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Apr 24 May 8

Stars on Ice, Budweiser Gardens

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health&fitness

Talent and mindset

By Dr. Natascha Wesch, PhD Why is it that some of the most talented athletes never achieve their potential, while some athletes with less ‘natural’ talent seem to achieve so much success?

A large part has to do with the type of mindset an athlete adopts.

There are two types of mindsets: a growth mindset and a fixed mindset.

Those with a fixed mindset believe that their talents and abilities are set – in other words, they ride their talent and coast on their success. Often, these athletes do not fulfill their potential. On the other hand, athletes with a growth mindset think of talents and abilities as things they can develop; they believe that potential is achieved through effort, practice, and instruction.

Almost every truly great athlete has a growth mindset – Clara Hughes, Michael Jordan, Sydney Crosby, to name a few.

These athletes do not rest on their talent; they constantly push themselves, and

Natascha Wesch continuously work on improving. And, they know that making mistakes is part of the process. They’re not afraid to make them, and are willing to push themselves outside of their comfort zone in order to get better.

Research shows that athletes who adopt a growth mindset have healthier attitudes towards practice and learning, are hungry to receive feedback, have a better ability to deal with setbacks, and perform better over time. Athletes with a fixed mindset are never willing to take risks.

They never want to admit they’ve made a mistake – they think it makes them look bad and takes away from their success.

In the long run, the fixed-mindset athlete stops growing and doesn’t improve once they’ve maxed out their talent.

Here are 3 guidelines to help you develop a growth mindset: 1. Learn, learn, learn – Look for challenges in any situation. You may not get

Ilderton on the ice

it right the first time, but be ok with being uncomfortable; challenge is the only way to improve. Yes, care about winning, but care first and foremost about learning.

2. Work with passion and dedication – Place high value on effort. Be ready to work hard; even if you have tons of talent, work hard to get better. We improve through struggle, sweat, and practice.

Effort is what ignites ability and causes it to grow over time.

3. Embrace your mistakes – Confront your deficiencies. A failure or a mistake is simply an opportunity to learn, grow, and get better. Do not fear mistakes; they happen to everyone. Be willing to take chances and risks. Every human that has achieved greatness has stumbled first.

Article adapted from Mindset: Developing Talent through a growth mindset, by Dr. Carol Dweck, Stanford University..

Dr. Natascha Wesch is a Mental Performance Consultant Counsellor & Coach in private practice who works with athletes, coaches, and teams of all levels and sport backgrounds. To learn more and to contact her, visit her website:

www.elitemindperformance.com

proudly sponsored by

By SportsXpress Team Ilderton may not be a large town, but the community just north of London has a hockey history that dates back more than a century. Ilderton Minor Hockey, in fact, has been a constant in the town just like the ‘Ilderton Fall Fair,’ an event held annually on the last weekend of September.

Currently, Ilderton Minor Hockey consists of 26 teams and 366 players. The teams are made up of both boys and girls, and the program offers both house league and competitive leagues.

In the last years, Ilderton has won four Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) championships, while also enjoying great success in Regional and International Silver Stick tournaments and provincial championships.

This year, the organization is hosting a special event in town, ‘Hockey Day in Ilderton,’ which will be held on Saturday, January 16. Several activities are planned for all ages throughout the day.

Brian Heessels is playing a major part in not only the special event Jan. 16, but

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within Ilderton Minor Hockey as a whole.

He’s been involved with the organization for eight years, and has spent seven of those eight years behind the bench coaching youth players. Heessels takes care of a lot of core The Ilderton Jets’ 2015-16 Mite team tasks. smoothly and put in place to make the “I work to ensure hockey season an enjoyable one for all that all players our registered with OMHA kids involved. and are on an OMHA approved team,” he So, while Ilderton may not be a big said. “And I work with the coaches and centre, there’s no doubt youth in the comother members of the Executive to help munity are provided with a minor hockey them with rules and regulations that we experience that rivals that of much larger must adhere to with regards to OMHA cities. And it’s all thanks to volunteers policies.” and an Executive that wants to see kids The current Executive is made up of 16 enjoy their time playing the great game of members. Heessels serves as the Vice hockey.

President and OMHA Rep. The Executive www.linexlondon.com gets together once a month to discuss any www.ildertonjets.com issues and ensure everything is running LondonSportsXpress

fromthesidelines

St. Thomas Williams Funeral Home Minor Atom Stars are on the Rise Submitted by Mike Rogozynski The St. Thomas Williams Funeral Home Minor Atom A Stars are starting to hit their stride. After a tough start to the season, the team has posted some hard fought wins and played well in their last two tournaments. The Stars finished second, bringing home the silver medal in the hometown, St. Thomas Minor AE Tournament. They also helped Team Canada win the Nations Cup championship in the Metro Detroit area by winning 3 games, including their seeded final game.

and every player has improved since the beginning of the season.

to a successful 2015/2016 season.

The hard work of the both the players and coaching staff, as well as the support of their parents and families is giving this team unlimited potential. Each player brings something to the table and makes this team the dynamic unit it has become.

These Stars are looking to shine brighter with each game and are looking forward

is a proud supporter of sports in St. Thomas.

Head coach, Joe Doyle, has done a great job focusing on skill development, while at the same time, continuing to encourage the players to have fun. Skating fundamentals have also been a priority for the team. With the assistance of Mike Ellis and Progressive Hockey Development, the results are definitely starting to show. Each

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sports@school

Katelyn Gosling wears the red and white Submitted by the Western Mustangs Western Mustangs defenceman Katelyn Gosling was one of the 22 players selected to represent Canada at the 2016 Nations Cup (January 4-7) in Füssen, Germany.

“When I got the phone call saying that I was selected for the team, I was in disbelief and overwhelmingly excited,” said Gosling. “I could not believe that I was being given this opportunity, and I felt honoured to have been chosen. I cannot thank my team, family and my coaching staff enough for the overwhelming support and motivation they give me.

They are amazing individuals who helped make this opportunity possible.”

“We continue to be very proud of Katelyn's progress and accomplishments,” said Mustangs head coach David

Barrett. “She is a late bloomer on our National Team's radar who has tremendous upside potential due to her work ethic and drive to continually learn more about the game.”

The Nations Cup involved Canada's National Women's Development Team, as well as national teams from Finland, Germany, Russia, Sweden, and Switzerland in a four-day tournament.

Players for the Nations Cup squad were selected based off of their performance with their club teams, as well as Canada's National Women's Team Fall Festival in September, and a three-game series against the United States during Canada's National Women's Development Team selection camp in August.

Gosling was one of three current CIS

Western Mustang Katelyn Gosling was named one of 22 players to represent Team Canada in Germany

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players on the roster, and was joined by forwards Mélodie Daoust from McGill, and Montreal's Catherine Dubois. Along with the three current CIS players, Nipissing head coach Darren Turcotte was named as one of the team's assistant coaches, while former Mustangs assistant Amanda Mazzotta served as the team's goaltending coach.

A two-time CIS All-Canadian and threetime OUA All-Star, Gosling had one goal and five assists in 13 games at the time of this writing, and had career numbers of 17 goals and 52 assists for 69 points in 103 regular season games. Her playoff numbers are even more impressive, with eight goals and 13 assists for 21 points in 25 games played.

www.westernmustangs.ca

Gosling, a London, ON native, is a two-time CIS All-Canadian and three-time OUA All-Star

LondonSportsXpress

Since 1988

ONE OF THE LONGEST RUNNING GOALIE TRAINING PROGRAMS IN THE WORLD

Peak in playoffs with Puckstoppers Submitted by Puckstoppers

Adult Hockey League - Spring, Summer & Winter:

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We are into the final stages of the hockey season and the time when goaltenders are counted on to be the difference, to steal a playoff series or to help their team secure a playoff position. It is vital to be prepared well in advance for the stretch drive.

Goalies must continue to work hard, developing and maintaining good work habits and technique. At Puckstoppers, we always see a big spike in private goalie training sessions just before playoffs and tryouts, as goalies prepare for the challenges and exciting times that

Senior Instructor Craig Addy works with Fundamentals student Kylan Casier and one of the coaches from Puckstoppers’ Certification program

Scoring Genius:

await them nearing the end of the season.

Regular one-on-one training sessions at our Training Centre will allow you to be that game changer, a goalie who is prepared and is the difference. Don’t be the goalie who lets in soft goals, or gets cut because of poor pre-tryout preparation.

This is also the time of year when parents begin the quest of searching for the right goalie school, the one where their child will learn the most, have fun and develop their life skills as well.

Puckstoppers is one of the longest running schools in the world, with literally thousands of happy goalie customers.

We’d like you to visit our website and consider one of our 10 program options this summer.

We even have a new book coming out that was written specifically for coaches and goalie parents, discussing how to properly work with goalies in minor hockey. ‘Target Practice: 8 Mistakes That Ruin A love Of The Game’ is available now for pre-sale. This is a ‘must have’ compliment to our Coaches Goaltender Training

DEDICATED ACCESSORY DEPARTMENT NO-CHARGE OIL CHANGE PROGRAM

scoringgenius.com Book for Coaches, Parents & Goalies:

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Certification program that runs four days in August and should be on EVERY coach’s list of things to do.

JFFHL Adult Spring & Summer Hockey is now accepting registration for Thursday evening, prime time games at the Western Fair. We’re now entering our 24th season.

SCORING GENIUS program for players teaches all the tricks of the trade, developing scoring prowess by understanding the movements and tendencies of the goaltender. This program has been proven very effective.

Upcoming News/events Daily Private Goalie Instruction ON ICE Goalie Clinics (London):February 14, 2016 - 6 to 7:30pm Summer Goalie Schools 10 Summer Program Options - August 2016 Scoring Genius School Learn How to Score More Goals - August 2016 Coaches Certified Goalie Trainer Course Designed for Minor Hockey Coaches JFFHL Adult Hockey League Spring & Summer, prime time, Thursday evenings

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A fixture in the community

By SportsXpress Team

Play it Again Sports is one of the original recyclers of sports equipment.

We have been buying quality used sports and fitness equipment for more than 30 years as a company (and 22 years in London). By professionally evaluating all sports equipment based on brand, safety and condition, we are able to offer different options to all of our customers when they are looking to sell or trade in their gear. Our customers can also take advantage of our Email Club and one of

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the best Loyalty Programs in the city.

One of our claims to fame is that we carry gear in almost every sport, including the newest hot sports … Blitzball and Disc Golf. Our store is packed full of used Cross Country Skis, Downhill Skis and Snowboards, as well as a full array of all sizes of new Snow Shoes.

In terms of Services, our skate sharpening is done by all of our EdgeVantage certified skate sharpeners, and we are equally proficient with Hockey, Figure

and Goalie skates. We also do the full array of snowboard and ski tuning and waxing by our certified ski technicians.

Complimentary At PIAS, we proudly support numerous Appetizer kids sports teams in Hockey, Baseball, Soccer and Lacrosse, and many other sports. In addition, we do special events for some of the local hockey associations, as well as support some school programs in London through donations to Silent Auctions and other support.

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Hawks soaring thus far

that, he spent six years with the Milton Winterhawks).

This year’s Hawks squad is showAs you might imagine, Ken Van deing very well on the ice. At the Hespeler Haar of Play it Again Sports is active in Olympic House League Tournament, the the local sports community, particularly West London Bantams won all four of their on the ice. The veteran hockey coach is games en route to winning the championcurrently in his fourth season guiding ship (including a 7-1 victory in the final). the West London Bantam Hawks (prior to “Our players came together, passed the puck well and kept pressure on the opponents in their zone,” said Van deHaar. “Our entire coaching staff was proud of every player.”

The team has two more tournaments, including one in January and one in March.

Off the ice, the players are going to be involved in the 2015-16 West London Bantam Hawks: Back Row (left to right): Coach Rob, Coach Kevin, Eric, Jack, Josh, Matt, Dallas, Nerissa, Coach Eric, Coach Ken. Front Row: Jayden, second half of their Bottle

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Drive early in the new year, which helps families by reducing the out-of-pocket costs for tournaments, exhibitions and team get-togethers.

Van deHaar, who grew up playing hockey as a kid himself and began coaching 10 years ago, says he’s very pleased with his talented group of Bantam Hawks this year.

“We have a great group of players that are relentless in how they pressure their opponents,” the coach said. “We have multiple strong offensive and defensiveminded players, a strong defensive core, and a goalie that is very scrappy and game smart.”

TJ, Nick, Hunter, Jacob, Patrick, Alex, Sammy, Justin. Goalie: Will

Detroit Red Wings

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vs Toronto Maple Leafs Mar 13

teamprofiles

Get to know: Ella Shelton

By Andrea Chisholm Ella Shelton, captain of the London Devilettes Junior Hockey Team, recently won a gold medal at the U18 National Championships in Huntsville, Ontario as a member of the Ontario Red Team.

Ella started skating at the age of three or four, but couldn’t get herself moving with all of her hockey gear on.

After a couple of years of early morning power skating before school with just her skates, helmet and gloves, she played hockey on a predominantly boys team until her hockey centre fielded a girls team in Atom. The first year that she tried out for the London Devilettes, she made the PeeWee A team.

Her devotion to hockey was influenced by her family who told her to always give 100%, as you never know where it will take you. At practice, Ella says she always worked hard, paid attention to the drills, and was first in line because she wanted to show she had what it took to take her game to the next level. She also made time to take power skating during the season and go out on the ice with her dad to work on her skills.

She attended hockey camps in the summer. Ella works out year round. Her favourite warm-up music is country, but she also likes pop. Before each game she tells herself all the things she needs to focus on: keep it simple, do the basics, keep your feet moving. She reminds herself of what defines her and what makes her a good defenseman.

• Favourite animal: Big animal lover, wants to be a vet • Hidden talents: Can knit and can work a tractor • Advice for young players who want to play Junior Hockey: Give 100%, don’t hold back because in tryouts you only have a few opportunities to show the coach your true potential. Play for your-

self, not the crowd, and keep smiling!

Ella is committed to Clarkson University where she hopes to develop as a player and be invited to Canada’s National Women’s Team tryouts. She also hopes to play for Canada in the Olympics someday.

www.londondevilettes.ca

Ella Shelton, a London Devilette who recently represented her province at the U18 National Championships, has worked hard ever since she first put a pair of skates on as a youngster.

Ten Questions with Ella Shelton • Favourite hockey team: Edmonton Oilers • Favourite player: Eric Karlsson of the Ottawa Senators because he jumps into the play a lot and is an offensive defenseman, which reflects how she plays • Idol: Her dad, who played Junior B hockey in Tillsonburg. People tell her she plays like her dad • Other sports: Soccer and school sports like basketball • Siblings: 3 brothers • Pets: 2 horses and a dog • Favourite colour: Blue

Montreal Canadiens Mar 24

Pittsburgh Penguins Mar 26

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fromthesidelines

Chiefs alums eye Canada roster Submitted by Elgin Middlesex Chiefs The Elgin Middlesex Chiefs are looking to be well represented at the World Juniors this holiday season. After a successful campaign last year, Chiefs alumni Lawson Crouse is expected to be a lock again on the team this year. In addition, Travis Konecny, former Chief and captain of the Ottawa 67’s, has been invited to the selection camp in Etobicoke December 10-14.

Crouse was the 11th pick in the first round of last year’s NHL draft by the Florida Panthers. He also led Kingston of the OHL in points last season.

Konecny, a first-round draft pick of

the Philadelphia Flyers, is one of 13 OHL players invited to the 30-player selection camp.

Chiefs fans will anxiously be waiting for the final roster of Team Canada.

At the time of this writing, the Chiefs organization has two teams in first place in their division and all other Chiefs teams are within striking distance of first.

It looks to be another strong postseason for all Chiefs teams, and we wish the best of luck to all squads.

Mentor, Ron Horvat. Please note, to coach the Minor Bantam, Major Bantam and Minor Midget teams, head coaches must be HP1 certified.

www.elginmiddlesexchiefs.com

Coaching Application is online

It is that time of year again where we begin looking ahead to next season. The Elgin Middlesex Chiefs are accepting coaching applications for the 2016-2017 season. Interviews for head coaches and assistant coaches will be conducted in January. If you are interested in coaching one of the Chiefs teams (Major Atom - Minor Midget), please complete the application on elginChiefs alumni Lawson Crouse (left) and Travis Konecny, seen here in the classroom, middlesexchiefs.com, could both be wearing the red and white of Team Canada at this year’s World Junior or contact the Coach championships. Photo by Craig Glover, London Free Press

Lawson Crouse, an 11th round pick by the Florida Panthers, figures to be skating with the Team Canada Juniors this year.

Travis Konecny, who captains the Ottawa 67’s, has been invited to the Team Canada selection camp.

LIVE. WORK. PLAY. LINE-X London

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sportsfiles

These community stories proudly sponsored by

Some heroes wear skates Submitted by Hockey Heroes Weekend The Heart and Stroke Foundation is offering local hockey players in London the chance to lace up their skates with NHL alumni at the inaugural Hockey Heroes Weekend.

Hosted at the Western Fair Sports Centre from April 8-10, 16 teams will compete on the ice in an effort to raise money in support of the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Together, sponsors, players

and NHL alumni will help make a difference in the fight against heart disease and stroke.

The event offers participants an opportunity to play hockey with NHL alumni. Some of the greatest NHL heroes have shared the ice with Hockey Heroes Weekend participants already, including Gary Roberts, Joe Nieuwendyk, Dale Hawerchuk, and many more.

NHL Alumni participating in Hockey Heroes Weekend include Todd Warriner, Rick Vaive, Kevin Maguire, Al Iafrate, Gary Roberts, Gilber Dionne, Dale Hawerchuk, and more.

“The Heart and Stroke Foundation is committed to increasing physical activity rates across the province to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke,” said Jamie-Lynn Huitema, Sr. Area Manager, Community Engagement at the Heart and Stroke Foundation. “This is a unique opportunity to get active, lace up the skates, and play our national sport with NHL heroes. It’s not just an event for local hockey players; it’s an event that the whole province can be proud of. Funds raised from the weekend will support research and health promotion initiatives across the province.”

The Foundation is looking for sponsors and teams who have a passion for hockey and the fight against heart disease and stroke. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities and the event, visit www. hockeyheroesweekend.com.

www.hockeyheroesweekend.com

Move for mental health!

By SportsXpress Team London’s second annual Walk & Talk for Mental Health is set for Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, and it is sure to be an important day in raising awareness of mental health issues and de-stigmatizing mental illness in the London community.

Once again, the day will consist of a short walk downtown, starting at Victoria

Park (10am), followed by post-walk festivities (indoors!) with food, fun, a guest speaker, and a fundraising raffle.

‘Move for mental health’ is the slogan of the Defeat Depression campaign, a national mental health awareness, antistigma and fundraising campaign that encourages people to get moving and

Last year, more than 150 walkers helped raise nearly $25,000 for mental health resources in the London community

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reap the benefits of exercise and physical activity.

Depression is a very common illness. It’s estimated that at least 1 in 5 Canadians will suffer from some form of mental illness in their lifetime. One way to help combat these illnesses is through physical activity, which has widely-known positive benefits for one’s mental health and wellbeing.

Interested in participating in London’s Walk & Talk for Mental Health? Register online (mdsc.akaraisin.com/London2016), sign up as a participant, and consider asking friends and family to sponsor you!

Most importantly, come out for the day and help take a stand against stigma!

The proceeds from this year’s event are going to the London and District Distress Centre.

See you on Feb. 27!

mdsc.akaraisin.com/London2016

sportsfiles

PHD clients flourishing on ice Submitted by Progressive Hockey Development (PHD)

PHD involved in athlete study Progressive Hockey Development is conducting a research study for the Toronto Maple Leafs Sports Science Department. Working with Kristine Walker, a student at Western University who is writing her PhD on vision tracking and peripheral recognition in high-end athletes, Mike Ellis has started to gather data for CIS athletes and MLSE athletes for the study.

Jr. Stars starting to flourish Over the last several years, the St. Thomas Jr. Stars Minor Hockey program has struggled on the ice, routinely being under .500 when it comes to wins and losses. However, over the last three seasons, things have started to change to the point that the Jr. Stars programs is starting to become a force to be reckoned with.

“We started working with a few teams, then more kids started coming to camps … the players I first started with in the IP program are now playing Novice A and

you can really see what a strong group of skaters these players are,” said Mike Ellis, PHD’s head instructor. “This season we have worked with every competitive team from Novice AE right up to the Peewee A team currently playing in the AA Alliance loop. In fact, we have three A teams that made the AA Alliance loop this year (Atom A, Minor Peewee A, and the Peewee A teams). The credit really belongs with the players for all their hard work, the coaches and the parents. We’re here to help them along the way.”

“When you look at St. Thomas Minor Hockey's win-loss record over the last three seasons, you can see a major im-

provement,” said Brent Smith, STMHA President. “The skill level has increased, the skating has improved. The players and coaches have put in a lot of hard work. The STMHA made a really great move bringing Mike Ellis and PHD into the fold.”

PHD continues to grow On top of working with the Toronto Maple Leafs, the AHL's Toronto Marlies, and the St. Thomas Jr. Stars Minor Hockey Association, PHD has also added as clients the OHL's Guelph Storm, Toronto Marlies Major Midget AAA, Oakville Rangers AAA (Major Bantam & Major Peewee), London Jr. Knights AAA (Major Peewee), London Jr. Knights AAA Minor Peewee, London Jr. Knights AA (Minor Peewee), Elgin Middlesex Chiefs AAA (Minor Bantam), Dorchester Dragons Minor Hockey Association, and Ingersoll Express Minor Hockey Association. Watch progressivehd.com for more information.

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Peewees evolving mental game

By SportsXpress Team London Jr. Knights coach Steve Kippen is in a good position this year. His team, the Peewee White AA team of ALLIANCE Hockey, is full of players hungry to get better and have fun on the ice.

“They’re a good group of kids that enjoy

each other and coming to the rink,” said Kippen, who is in his fourth year with the organization. “As a minor hockey coach, that’s what you want to see.”

At 12 years old, the players are now starting to learn about the mental aspect of the game. As Kippen explains, while maintaining and building on core hockey skills is obviously of utmost importance, it’s the mental side of the game that separates the good from the great.

“It’s things like being a good teammate, showing leadership, self-motivation, working hard in every practice, and having a team-first attitude,” Kippen said. “For The London Jr. Knights Peewee White AA team were victors at the LJK Green & White tournament: Back row (left to right): Assistant coach Rich McEvoy, trainer Steve Arnold, Steve Lee, Tristen Gerth, Caleb Young, instance, there are lots of Steve Lee, Riley Wood, Assistant coach Ryan Renneboog, Coach Steve Kippen. Second row: Daniel Kippen, Roj Abdullah, Jack Begin, Owen Kernohan, Brendan Arnold, Diego Sabino. Front row: Spencer Jarvis, Graham guys in the NHL that have MacMillan, Matthew Dixon, Declan McEvoy, Logan Pace-Roth. Laying down: Coby Harvey

the skills of a Jonathan Toews, but it’s his mental strength and preparation that makes him an elite player.”

Last year, Kippen’s team represented their country in the Nations Cup, and won the Canada #1 Seed vs. U.S. #1 Seed game. The Americans won the overall tournament, but the Junior Knights players wore their Team Canada jerseys with great pride at practice for the next few weeks.

It’s still early this year, but the team is starting to develop its identity and its strengths, Kippen says, which include the ability to move the puck with speed and playing strong in all three zones.

Goaltending is also a team strength, thanks in part to goalie coach Jake Riley.

But above all else?

“Our main goal as a coaching staff is for the kids to enjoy the game of hockey while trying to make them better players and well-rounded individuals,” Kippen said.

alliancehockey.com

Detroit Red Wings vs Toronto Maple Leafs Mar 13

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Hunter quickest to 600 wins

By Mike Stubbs and photo by London Knights Winning Percentage; Most Wins; Most Points; Fewest Losses; Most Road Wins; Longest Undefeated Streak; Most Shutouts; Fewest Goals Against.

There have been improbable playoff series wins. There have been many more highs than lows.

Hunter boils it down to a mix of a system and playing to players’ strengths.

“It’s a mix of both,” he said. “In junior, you go from year to year and you are going to lose players. All of a sudden, you might have a big goal scorer out of the lineup or you might lose a top defenceman. You try to get the best out of what you have.”

One of the things that has changed the most is the use of video. As Hunter says, it has gone from “Bob Hammond with a single video camera where I would re-watch the game at home and then draw out what I saw on a wipe-off board in the dressing room to drop-boxing players’ shifts in games so they can watch them on the way home on the bus.”

He jokes that coaching young players keeps you young, but it also changes you.

“Look at this grey hair,” he says.

At 600+ wins, Dale Hunter is looking great on and off the ice.

Mark and Dale Hunter sat inside the London Ice House in 2001 and talked about a major decision that would affect their lives and their hockey team immensely.

They were in need of a head coach.

There were certainly candidates who could fill the position. Some of them had pretty impressive resumes behind the bench.

Mark Hunter could have decided to take the reins himself. He had years of coaching experience at both the OHL and AHL level.

But, as the two brothers have done so many times, they decided to go in a direction that no one could really even see.

They ended their conversation and announced that Dale Hunter would become

the next coach of the London Knights.

“We decided that one of us had to be the coach and one of us had to be G.M.,” Dale said. “I had just finished playing, and Mark had already been involved with the league as a coach in Sarnia, so it made sense for him to manage and I took the coaching side.”

That’s the kind of accountability that often goes unnoticed in the success the pair has had with the Knights. They’re not just the owners of the theatre, they’re also part of the cast and crew. Decisions are always made with the best interest of the team and its players in mind.

No one knew as Dale Hunter stepped behind the bench for the opening of the 2001-02 season what kind of a rocket fuse was being ignited. The Knights won that day, beating Sarnia 6-4 on the backs of four combined points from Rick Nash and Corey Perry and 37 saves from Glen Ridler.

It took just 906 games for him to reach 600 wins. He joins Brian Kilrea, Larry Mavety, Stan Butler, former Knight, George Burnett, and the late Bert Templeton as the only OHL coaches to accomplish the feat. Hunter did it faster than anyone else.

Along the way, the impact that Dale Job #: 34416-48 Color(s): 4 Hunterx 3.125” and his teams have Dale Hunter joined five other OHL coaching legendsSize: 7.375" Bleed: N had on the OHL Branch: 343-London Pub: significant: Sports Xpress Best this year by recording his 600th win behind the bench, record book has been

www.londonknights.com

and he became the fastest to do it.

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West London Tykes take flight

By Greg Matthison The Leafs are one of eight teams in the West London tyke hockey program, a league that provides a whole lot of fun for the kids, parents and coaches. At games and practices, there is loads of excitement from the parents and the army of

coaches, managers and trainers involved.

This is an introduction to the great game of hockey, and it truly is amazing to see how quickly the kids progress with their skills. Most of the youngsters begin with basic skating lessons and are often

very timid on the ice, wanting first and foremost not to fall. But once they get their hockey equipment on and realize it doesn’t really hurt to take a spill on the ice, the kids really throw themselves out there.

The kids progress from taking steps on the ice to learning how to take strides. And then they go from striding to skating, and then skating and passing! It’s a thrill a minute as their skills improve leaps and bounds. Of course, one of the highlights is when a youngster scores his or her first goal, especially with family watching and cheering from behind the glass.

Fortunately, and unfortunately, the game will become more serious and competitive in the years to come. But the kids, parents and coaches will always The Leafs of the West London Tyke hockey program (Left to right): Charlie Davis, Sam Curphey, Jordan Collins, Nathan Degroot, Katelyn Hobson, Alexandra remember where it started.

Dolson, Elliott Usher, Sophia Norman, Jake Bates, Jack Matthison. Missing is Wilson Debicki

www.westlondonhockey.ca

The best you can be Submitted by Olympic Karate At Olympic Karate, our core philosophy is “learn to be your best,” which helps our students know that everyone’s personal best is different: someone might strive for 10 push-ups, while another might strive for 100. What you put in is what you get out, and by giving your best you will, in turn, receive the best for yourself.

As a martial artist, you are taught to use your skills only in defense, and to avoid confrontation at all costs. Showboating one’s skills and boasting about abilities are not something fundamental to martial arts; in fact, that opposes the basic philosophies taught at the beginner level. This can make martial arts a solemn art, an

art that places emphasis on personal victories rather than glory and fame.

To help our students set goals and test the limits of their own personal bests, we have a bi-annual Tournament of Champions.

On Dec 5, 2015, our dojo welcomed most of our students for a day of competition and fun. Students competed in three main events: kata presentation, fitness evaluation, and point-based sparring. We had an amazing turnout and all of our competitors had fun. We will be hosting another tournament in the late spring/early summer. Contact us for additional info.

“Learn to be your best.”

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www.olympickarate.on.ca LondonSportsXpress

Mackenzie represents the beginners by taking a first place in beginner fitness with near perfect push-ups! Girl power!

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