SportsXpress London Nov/Dec 2015

LondonSportsXpress @SportsXpressLON

Bump, Set, Spike!

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Supreme Courts and local clubs are developing elite athletes

REV3K Biggest Loser Fitness Redefined

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Runners’ Choice eyeing big 2016

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015 London & Area Edition

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Submitted by Runners’ Choice Run clinic season is quickly coming to a close, and after another successful year of training it is now time to start planning for 2016. Over the past year, our coaches have helped more than 250 runners and walkers reach their goals.

This past year was highlighted with too many successes to mention; from beginners completing their first 5k, runners reaching their own personal goals, and runners qualifying for the Boston Marathon. The upcoming year of clinics looks to be bigger and better than ever before, with new training options for the athlete within everyone.

Runners’ Choice athletes pose for a photo after a training run during the summer.

®

The biggest addition to our clinic offerings for 2016 will be our Learn to Urban Pole Walk clinic. Urban poling is an amazing workout for those that want more than just walking; burning 46% more calories than just walking. Our certified instructor will teach you the proper technique and make your workout more than just a walk in the park.

With the half marathon being one of the most popular race distances in North America, our new focus on this distance will give runners of all abilities the perfect clinic to help them reach their goals. Our other clinics continue to grow and offer excellent coaching and advice for runners.

What are current clinic members saying about our groups?

“I got my exact goal time I set out for in the spring, and I can't be happier!” – Liz D. “Such wonderful support and advice from so many runners truly made for the best race I have ever had.” -- Jennifer G. “This group truly has great people, and without the support this weekend there's no way I would have been able to run the time I did with how I felt Saturday morning. Great weekend, and let's do it all over again in a few months.” – Paul A.

running................................................... pg 3 darts....................................................... pg 6 karate..................................................... pg 7 baseball...............................................pg 8-9 curling............................................... pg 10-11 soccer...............................................pg 12-16 football..................................................pg 17 squash.................................................. pg 18 climbing................................................ pg 19 aquatics...........................................pg 22-25 volleyball.........................................pg 23-26 golf.................................................. pg 29-31 scholarship........................................... pg 29 gymnastics............................................ pg 32 cheerleading....................................pg 33-34 dance.................................................... pg 35 basketball........................................ pg 36-37 nutrition................................................ pg 38 rugby.................................................... pg 40 hockey............................................. pg 41-49 events................................................... pg 50 Big Game Road Trips..............................pg 51 Thanks to Forest City Volleyball and REV3K for the cover photos.

BEST. GIFT. EVER!

Road trips from London & Area to watch Pro Sports!

Upcoming Road Trips

www.runnerschoice.on.ca

Nov 26 Nov 27 Dec 3 Dec 10 Dec 27 Dec 27 Jan 23 Jan 29 Feb 28 Mar 13 Mar 20 Mar 26 Apr 8 & 9 Apr 12 July 1

Philadelphia Eagles at Detroit Lions Edmonton Oilers at Detroit Red Wings Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions Montreal Canadiens at Detroit Red Wings Dallas Cowboys at Buffalo Bills San Francisco 49ers at Detroit Lions Anaheim Ducks at Detroit Red Wings Cleveland Cavaliers at Detroit Pistons Toronto Raptors at Detroit Pistons Toronto Maple Leafs at Detroit Red Wings Orlando Magic at Toronto Raptors Pittsburgh Penguins at Detroit Red Wings Boston Red Sox at Toronto Blue Jays New York Yankees at Toronto Blue Jays Cleveland Indians at Toronto Blue Jays

Road trip details available on page 51 or at

A look at the Runners’ Choice training group prior to the Grand Rapids Half and Full Marathon.

2016 CLINICS (MORE DETAILS AT WWW.RUNNERSCHOICE.CA) @SportsXpressLON

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London

Adult sports for Londoners!

Your Community

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Sports Connection

London and Area

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Submitted by Connect Sports London

Check out our website at LondonSportsXpress.ca

Corporate Teams Welcome Connect Sports not only caters to individuals wanting to play adult sports in London, we also welcome corporate teams.

Join Connect Sports London for the ultimate sports experience!

We offer co-ed recreational weekly sport leagues all across London.

• League play is a great way to improve teamwork in a fun, recreational setting.

• Corporate discounts are available for all sport leagues.

• Friends, spouses and others can also join the corporate team.

• All skill levels are welcome and we encourage anyone to join.

• League play is available on various nights and we always accommodate teams.

We work with your organization to provide a superior service and create a fun atmosphere for all employees to join!

Contact us for more details on Winter Leagues and we’ll get you set up for a fun sport league!

®

Brothers Big Sisters of London & Area, was a great success. The weather was beautiful, and all 22 teams had a great time throwing bocce balls in downtown London. It was a hard fought battle, but in the end the team of Andrew and Trevor were victorious. Thanks to all participants and sponsors who helped us raise $750 for BBBSOLA.

PUBLISHER Greg Matthison GregM@SportsXpress.ca 519–619–6029

EDITOR WEB GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Jim Taylor Britt Cobean

CONTRIBUTORS

Tyler Schepens, Andrea Chisholm, Richelle Hirlehey, Jim Van Horne, Dr. Natascha Wesch, Jay Nash, Penney Shore-Talbot, Burt Dowsett, Christine Aitcheson, Barry Westman, Donna Krotz, Elgin Middlesex Chiefs, Runners’ Choice, EMSA, FC LONDON, The Little Gym of London, EBBA, Connect Sports London, The Batter’s Box, London Badgers, London Marconi Soccer, Junction Climbing Centre, London Squash Club, St. Thomas Soccer Club, Supreme Courts, CheerStrike, Forest City Volleyball Club, Sportmax Nutrition, London Beefeaters, City of London Municipal Golf, Power Edge Pro Hockey, Power Cheer Gym, Middlesex Swimming, TGA Premier Junior Golf, Forest City Diving Club, Olympic Karate, Puckstoppers, Western Continuing Studies, London Volleyball Club, St. George’s Rugby Club, Western Mustangs, Twist London Gym, Progressive Hockey Development, London Synchro, London Aquatic Club, London Lightning Basketball, the SportsXpress Team and local sports enthusiasts.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Cam Vassallo, Kyle Montgomery, David Chidley, Robert Wilson, Claus Andersen, EBBA, Connect Sports London, The Batter’s Box, London Badgers, Devilettes, Runners’ Choice, London Curling Club, Highland Curling Club, EMSA, Bluewater Hawks, London Beefeaters, London Volleyball Club, Forest City Volleyball Club, Middlesex Swimming, The Little Gym of London, TGA Premier Junior Golf, Junction Climbing Centre, Power Edge Pro Hockey, CheerStrike, London Squash Club, St. Thomas Soccer Club, St. George’s Rugby Club, Forest City Diving Club, Puckstoppers, Olympic Karate, Ball Hockey International, Power Cheer Gym, Sportmax Nutrition, London Synchro, Western Mustangs, London Junior Golf, Supreme Courts, Ontario Soccer Association, Twist London Gym, Progressive Hockey Development, London Aquatic Club, Elgin Middlesex Chiefs, the SportsXpress Team, various sports group photographers and community sports fans.

PARTNERSHIP EDITIONS

Ajax/Pickering Belleville/Quinte Brant County Chatham/Kent Hamilton Kingston London Niagara Oshawa/Whitby Peterborough Waterloo

PARTNERSHIP INQUIRY

Contact SportsXpress at: 1.877.588.8856 or email Sales@ SportsXpress.ca

Winter Co-ed Leagues Contact us to get our early bird rates on winter co-ed adult sports in London!

Sports Include: Dodgeball, Volleyball, Basketball, Floor Hockey, Soccer & New Flex League.

www.connectsportslondon.com

Charity Bocce Tournament Our annual bocce tournament in Victoria Park, which supports Big

Steve and Anne-Marie from Big Brothers Big Sisters of London

Todd Devlin

NATIONAL & REGIONAL SALES

Greg Matthison GregM@SportsXpress.ca

PRESIDENT/CEO

Walter Browning walter@sportsxpress.ca

VP OPERATIONS

Clint Szakacs clint@sportsxpress.ca

Mailing Address 50 Ottawa St. South, Unit 110, Kitchener, On, N2G 3S7 519–208–9302 or 1-877-588-8856 Editorial Contributions: Submissions are welcome from writers, photographers, athletes, coaches

Connect Sports welcomes corporate teams and offers co-ed recreational weekly sport leagues all across London

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LondonSportsXpress.ca

Andrew and Trevor were winners of the second annual charity bocce tournament

LondonSportsXpress

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.

FAN DEALS

(see page 51)

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@SportsXpressLON

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teamprofiles

It’s Game On for Darts in London

Why girls’ hockey is great!

What was once considered boys’ night at the old smoky pub has now become one of the fastest growing sports across the country!

Story and photo by Coleen Dalton

around the province throughout the season, kids Dart leagues are sprouting up everywhere the ages of 7 and 18 are taking the There is nothing like the excitement that last between a lifetime. The and London is leading the pack withfriendships one of the of watching your daughter take the puck atmosphere in the dressing room is full sport by storm! area’s the London District down the largest ice for themembership, first time and score of music, chatter and laughter while the Whether a registered league or just some her first goal! from the girls prepare to play together as it’s a team!

Men’s DartCheers League.

It’s fans alsointhe longest running the stands, a wave to parents from the What does it mean to be part of this friends meeting in the garage once a week, dart league in North America dating back to ice, and a smile that could light up the team? Most recently, a group of my eldest now 21 and 22 and have been apart for darts is the new game night!

It’s cheap, to 1946.

The follows London Ladies Dart League isn’t teammates a few years. What amazedeasy me watching arena are what that amazing daughter’s were brought learn most of all, For more information thisfun! group was the ease with which their far behind, with hundreds leaguetogether members moment.

Teammates hug and fist of bump through a sad and and difficult “sisterhood” & instantly returned. They ongathering the bench, every coachesweek are soto proud of situation – the passing of one of their drop by Sanders Recreation Fitness. try their best at the have been through amazing wins and diftheir athletes, and the player has gained long-time coaches. Many of these girls bullseye. ficult losses They have cheered Whether you’re a beginner or together. a pro, get great

confidence knowing that she is part of an played hockey together since they were 6 together and cried together.

They incredible – a team!

7 years old were 18 tips and getthrowing from the experts and find all of thehave And thething fastest growing dart group or appears to until they always had each other.

They will always Playing girls’ hockey helps create ting ready to leave forequipment university. They youare needbetoa team! make your game the be kids! Dozens of youth meet every Saturday best it can be at Sanders!

There is something incredibly strong to hit the boards including a national champ, and about girls being able to be right here from London! With tournaments held Check us out on-line atunique playwithsanders.ca today. part of a girls’ hockey team. The confidence they build, the friendships, and the memories, which they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Do you want more information on how to get your daughter involved in the great game of hockey? Check out the London Devilettes website: www.londondevilettes.com. The Devilettes are dedicated to the growth and development of female hockey players!

There is something unique about girls’ hockey and the friendships and memories which will last for a lifetime

BEACHCOMBER HOT TUBS LONDON

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www.londondevilettes.ca London Youth Dart League

775 Wharncliffe Rd South www.bht-london.com 519-681-0249

sportsfiles

Building total confidence Submitted by Olympic Karate In Karate, we train to be our best and become totally confident of our abilities.

Our best means that we are strong, fast, and fit. We are wise enough to acknowledge danger is real, and to avoid it at all costs. We are taught to talk our way out of a confrontation, and walk away if provoked; only using karate to protect ourselves if necessary. As a Martial Artist, we are not worried about the bully, because we spend hours in the dojo getting stronger, faster, and fitter.

Our confidence doesn’t just stop at our Martial Arts skills: we are the ones to raise our hands and answer a question correctly, we are the ones who stand up for what is right, and we are the ones who get help when something is really wrong. We know the difference between “tattle tales” and asking for help when we need it. We, the students of Olympic Karate, work

to be the best we can be, inside and outside the dojo, and we exhibit our hard work by leading by example. Thanks to

our sensei’s lessons and our hard work, we are totally confident in our abilities.

www.olympickarate.on.ca

The students of Olympic Karate work to be the best they can be, inside and outside of the dojo.

@SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

EBBA reflects, expects growth Submitted by EBBA Fall has been a busy baseball season for more than just the Toronto Blue Jays.

Eager Beaver Baseball is already planning its 2016 season. A new board was elected on the first of October, and they are anticipating a swell in registrations due to the post season play of the Jays.

You can be sure that EBBA will be ready to meet the demand and continue to provide a structured baseball program for players aged 4 to 21.

The 2015 season ended on a high note with coach and volunteer appreciation night. Highlights of the past season were recounted, coaches and their endless hours of commitment were acknowledged, and every volunteer was thanked by the board. The Gordon Berryhill Volunteer Award was presented to Travis Bourne and Berryhill's nephew, Edward Berryhill, was there to assist with the presentation.

Gordon Berryhill was one of the founders of EBBA and it was his dedication in the

initial years of the league that created a lasting foundation for the oldest organized youth sports league in London, run entirely by volunteers.

With registration beginning the last week of January, the new board has plans to make EBBA's 62nd season of youth baseball the best ever. Mornington Park, EBBA’s home park, has seen extensive improvements over the last five years, and next season will see the addition of a batting cage and the groundwork for permanent bathrooms and a concession stand.

Inter-league play with close neighbouring leagues allowed for many more home games last year for the Rookie, Mosquito and PeeWee divisions, and plans are under way to continue to expand that program. Meanwhile, the Little Slugger and Tball programs continue to grow and provide our 4-7 year olds with solid baseball knowledge and skill sets.

Watch the EBBA.ca website for upcom-

ing registration dates and pre-season clinics, both starting in January. A job list will also be posted, as more volunteers will be needed to make 2016 a success.

As Gordon Berryhill knew, a league is only as good as its volunteers, and EBBA has some of the best!

www.ebba.ca

This year’s Gordon Berryhill Volunteer Award was presented to Travis Bourne (middle) for his dedication to growing the game of baseball among youth in London

Training in the Batter’s Box Submitted by The Batter’s Box The Batter’s Box is a 16,000 square foot facility that showcases six retractable batting cages, two fielding spaces, and a dedicated soft toss/tee area. The

retractable cages make it ideal for any organization, team or private lesson to design the facility to their liking and maximize their training time. The dedicated soft toss/tee area also allows teams and players to work on their hitting skills without wasting valuable cage time.

The Batter's Box Training Staff are committed to providing specialized one-on-one skills training for your young ballplayer.

Our staff has extensive experience training athletes at all ages and The Batter’s Box is a facility dedicated to connecting ballplayers to the game skill levels and will and to improving their skills

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dedicate themselves to ensure that your young ballplayer is prepared for competition.

Our Pitching and All-Skills clinics provide an atmosphere of fun and competition while your player develops his or her skills. Coach Lumley and his College Instructors focus on skill development in hitting, pitching, catching, outfield play, infield play, bunting and throwing mechanics.

The Batter's Box was developed to help build a connection to the game and for those that just simply enjoy the atmosphere around the game.

To register for one of our private lessons or skills clinics, please visit us online or call Coach Lumley at 519-619-6792.

www.thebattersbox.ca

Toronto Blue Jays vs

Red Sox Apr 8 & 9,

sportsfiles

Unprecedented success Submitted by the London Badgers The London Badgers AAA Baseball program is Baseball Ontario's leader in Elite Level baseball. Since 1994, we have been one of the leading College Placement programs in the Province, concentrating on placing players based on their talent level and the ability to start at that level.

To build a championship program, you must start by creating an atmosphere of process over outcome. The Badger results are proof that this concept works, as the program’s teams have won the Ontario Eliminations Championships eight years in a row, earning the National Bronze medal five times and the Gold medal four times since 1997. Although there are other great organizations in the province, no other Baseball Ontario Program has been able to accomplish this feat in the past 15 years.

Currently, our 14U to 18U players are inside London's only Baseball dedicated

Yankees Apr 12,

facility, The Batter's Box, developing Badgers website to register for tryouts and gather information on the 2016 their technical skills and overall strength baseball season. Or call Coach Lumley at in preparation for the 2016 season. Our 519-619-6792.

10U to 13U teams will start their 13week tryout process on Sunday, Jan. 3, www.londonbadgers.on.ca which will give our coaching staff ample time to work on the necessary skills and training methods that will have all of our recruits prepared to compete at the elite level.

If you are interested in joining Baseball Ontario's most recognized program, For the second consecutive year, the London Badgers captured the Bronze visit the London medal at the Baseball Canada 13U Championships.

Indians July 1

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sportsfiles

Proudly sponsored by

Where to curl in 2015-16 London Curling Club

By Burt Dowsett The social aspect of curling has always been a big part of the game, and it is especially in play at the London Curling Club. Couples often join together and compete with their spouses in mixed curling as well as in leagues for men only or women only.

Curling offers couples a chance to do something together.

Often, friendships with other couples that can last for decades develop. Curling stands out for its etiquette. Curlers respect their opponents and compliment them when they make a good shot. New curlers will start making those “good shots� relatively quickly because the sport has a sharp learning curve.

Curling is also a vehicle to raise money for charitable causes. Last season, London Curling Club member Ken Walmsley launched a bonspiel and silent auction that raised $18,500 for prostate cancer research via the London Health Sciences Foundation. This year, Walmsley and his committee Ken Walmsley of the London Curling Club and London Health Sciences Foundation members at the club are organizing two bonspiels for the development officer Shannon Digby hold a ceremonial cheque for $18,500 raised same cause. by club members for prostate cancer research. Walmsley is also accompanied by members of his committee

www.londoncurling.ca

Ilderton Curling Club

By Christine Aitcheson and photo by Robert Wilson Ilderton Curling Club is a very active facility just a few minutes north of London.

It has been in existence since 1960, and now boasts an annual membership of around 500 with a wide range in both ages and skill levels. We draw members from Ilderton and the surrounding areas

and offer roughly 40 draws of curling a week; mixed and single sex, social and competitive. We are also proud to host both Special Olympic and Wheelchair Curling on Sundays.

Our curling club is available for rentals during the season; for availability, please

contact Christine Aitcheson at 519-6661810. Charity bonspiels, corporate team building, church groups, and family groups are all welcome. Brooms and sliders are supplied.

For more information, visit:

www.ildertoncurlingclub.com

The Ilderton Curling Club hosts Wheelchair Curling on Sundays. Teams shown here include: Chris Rees & Ken Gregory; Gillbert Blanchette & Carl Bax; Shauna Petrie & Jim Armstrong; Rick Prudhomme & Dennis Duclos; Gil Dash & Marie Wright; Mark Ideson & Mike Munro; Jim Law & Paul Gross; and Tony Reynen & Shannon Wilcox.

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LondonSportsXpress.ca

LondonSportsXpress

St. Thomas Curling Club

By Barry Westman

St. Thomas Curling Club You cheered Canada on to two Olympic gold medals last February, now it’s time for you to try

By Barry Westman

curling this winter. The St. Thomas Curling Club has been located at 38 Parkside Drive since 1955 the sport. Free instruction is available to The St. Thomas and includes six sheets of ice and a comfortable area.

Curling Club has all new members throughlounge our Curling 101 Our members are proud of our curlin been located at 38 program.

There is no need to purchase club and the many Provincial Champions that have developed their skills in our facility. However, Parkside Drive since any equipment, as the Club provides the majority of 1955 our and new members have never sport before. everything you needtried to get the started. includes season in mid-October and Free instruction is available to all six sheets of ice to helpOur ng Club offers a variety of ways you get begins started in the sport. and a comfortable continues through to the middle of April. our Curling 101 program. There is no We need to purchase any equipment, as the Club provides everything lounge area. Our members are proud of have leagues for every age and abil. our curling club and the many Provincial ity, and you can join as an individual, a as a team.of April. We have leagues for every age and ability, Champions that have developed their n mid-October and continues throughcouple, to theormiddle For more information, contact us at skills in our facility. individual, a couple, orofas team.

However, the majority ouranew mem- 519-631-1770 or check out our website at: bers have never tried the sport 7-9 before. t our OPEN HOUSE October from 7-9p.m.

Free on-ice instruction will be provided.

The St. Thomas Curling Club offers a www.stthomascurlingclub.com , contact us at 519-631-1770, or check out our website: www.sthomascurlingclub.com. variety of ways to help you get started in

Highland Curling Club

Highland ByCurling Donna KrotzClub

By Donna Krotz

and Country Club is hidden away…righttheinpremier the heart of the city curling club in Southwestern Highland Country Club is a fully integrated curling and golf facility that is hid-

Ontario.

Our Club has golf a reputation forthat producing den away … right is in the heartintegrated of London. and Country Club a fully curling and facility is Curling members have access to all of the competitive curlers and hosting quality away … right in the heart of London. Curling members have access to amenities available at the Club, including bonspiels and events. At the same time, e amenities at surroundings the Club, including dining in that comfortable we havefull several leagues are geared full diningavailable in comfortable dingsforfor members and their totoenjoy. the more social curler, including a “Get members and their guests to guests enjoy.

Started League” for those looking to the have which a six-sheet curling rink, which We curlingWerink, opened in 1959. pride ourselves on having opened in 1959.

We pride ourselves on learn the great game of curling. e-making team in Canada. Our clubhouse underwent major renovahaving the best ice and the top ice-makFor more information, please contact d Highland Country Club has become the premier curling club in Donna Krotz, Curling Coordinator, at doning team in Canada. Our clubhouse un. derwent major renovations in 2011-2012, nakrotz@outlook.com.

Countrycompetitive Club has become Job #: 34416-43 Color(s): 4/0 and hosting quality bonspiels tationand forHighland producing curlers Size: 7.375" x 3.125” Bleed?: N www.highlandcurlingclub.com Branch: 343-London Pub: Sports Xpress me time, we have several leagues that are geared to the more social t Started League” for those looking to learn the great game of curling.

OnHeights, a FurnaceLondon, Ont.) 4-2015 season on Oct. 1 at 6:30pm (Highland Country Club, 1922$Highland Tune-Up Job at #: 34416-24 Color(s): 4C n, please contact Donna Krotz, Curling Coordinator, donnakrotz@outlook.com. · Save energy and money

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Marconi women battle in B.C. Submitted by London Marconi Soccer and photo by Ontario Soccer Association The London Marconi Azzurri Women’s soccer team recently travelled to Vancouver, B.C. to represent Ontario in the Women’s Classic National Championships.

Each province holds its own Classics tournament for over 30 women’s teams.

Marconi Azzurri earned their spot at Nationals after beating Ottawa in September to win the Ontario Cup finals.

At Nationals, Marconi Azzurri faced off against provincial champions from Manitoba and British Columbia. Despite exhaustion due to a missed flight the night before, the team started off strong with a 7-0 win against Manitoba. Next it was British Columbia, the hometown crowd favourite, at the Empire Fields in Burnaby, B.C., which is also the practice site of the Vancouver Whitecaps. The game remained scoreless until the final 10 minutes when B.C. scored on Azzurri to win the game.

In the bronze medal match up, Ontario’s

Wildcats. Competitors during the LAWSL Premier and Division 1 summer soccer season, the players come together as teammates to compete in the provincial and national Classics Tournament series.

The ladies of Marconi Azzurri and their coaches, Mike Cinicolo and Robert Howell, have their sights set on a return to Nationals in 2016!

Marconi Azzurri played team Quebec, who quickly revealed themselves to be a much stronger side than B.C. Down 2-0 after 45 minutes, Marconi Azzurri came back in the second half to tie up the game. Penalty shots were the deciding factor that awarded Quebec the bronze medal. www.londonmarconisoccer.com Regardless of the fact they did not come home with a medal, Marconi Azzurri are proud to have represented Ontario at Nationals. The team is truly a representation of women’s competitive soccer in Southwestern, Ontario, as it is comprised of players from the London Marconi Club, Back: Robert Howell, Erin Van Dam, Miriam Bhamjee, Holly MacLean, Holly Fairweather, Lisa Karsay, Sarah Grady, Trish Daamen, Lisa Gartley, Victoria Clark, Karen Stone, Mike Cinicolo / the German Canadian Front: Nuala Marshall, Christina Bonasia, Pauline Tsprailis, Mag Haglitt, Sherri Castrilli, Julie Cybulski, Annette Darby / Missing: Melissa Piercy and Antonietta Cinicolo (manager) Club and the Sarnia

Adult and Youth Holiday Indoor Soccer Tournaments Youth Tournaments Adult Tournaments • •

•

December 19 & 20 - Men, Women & Co-ed $250 per team (recreational) or $300 per team (competitive with cash prize) Registration by December 10 (at BMO Centre office)

• December 19 to January 3 • Boys and Girls divisions in: U9 to U18,

U19 & U20 combined

• $250 per team (includes hst) • Registration by December 10 (at BMO Centre office)

Limited number of teams available and divisions may fill up fast - ACT NOW! BMO Centre is located at 295 Rectory Street - London • Office Phone: 226 289 2838

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Toronto Raptors vs

Pistons Feb 28,

sportsfiles

A successful summer of soccer in the district

See picture of Galaxy (below) & Marconi women (page 12)

Submitted by Elgin Middlesex Soccer Association The EMSA outdoor soccer season had great excitement and featured great results both at the Youth and Adult levels in 2015. There was fierce competition at the Ontario Cup Tournament this season, and by the end of the year a number of teams from our District were crowned Champions and Runners Up. The North London Galaxy Under 13 Girls team won the Gold Medal, while the Under 15 Girls from North London also won Provincial Gold. On the adult side, the London Marconi Men’s Team repeated as Provincial Champions and traveled to Calgary to compete in the National Championship in an attempt to repeat as champions.

The Marconi Azzuri Women's Team won the Provincial Championship and went on to the National Championship but unfortunately did not progress beyond the first round of the competition. Meanwhile, the London Apollo FC Masters Team were Silver Medalists at their Provincial Competition.

The Indoor season is about to get underway with over 100 teams registered at this point. This should also be a very competitive Indoor Season.

There will also be a focus on Futsal this season for those players who wish to have a different or additional experience of the great game of soccer.

London Apollo FC Masters Team were Silver Medalists at their Provincial Competition.

www.emsadistrict.com

London Marconi Men’s Team, repeat provincial champions

U13 Galaxy captures Ontario Cup

By Penney Shore-Talbot The North London Galaxy entered the summer-long Ontario Cup tournament in mid July, defeating each team they came up against. After beating London's AG Garrincha U13 team in the semifinals on August 29, the U13 North London Galaxy went on to defeat the North Mississauga Panthers at the Ontario Cup Finals in a tense match on Saturday, Sept. 19 at the OSA Headquarters in Vaughan, Ontario.

In the 79th minute of the game, the Panthers scored the first goal of the game, which the Galaxy countered less than a minute later. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, but the Galaxy captured the U13 Ontario Cup after winning the shootout 3-0.

The girls are thrilled about their win! Congrats to the girls and their coach, Rahim Mohammed, on a fantastic season of soccer!

www.nlsoccer.com Magic Mar 20

The North London U13 Galaxy - 2015 Ontario Cup champions Front Row (L to R): Holly Remisch, Sydney Dicola, Jennifer Milligan, Mackenzie Bilotta, Emaly Martin, Belle Annis-Bandola, Mikayla Talbot, Thalia Lewis, Alicia Domingues.

Back Row (L to R): Coach Rahim Mohammed, Megan Brown, Abby Connell, Ally Gardner, Nicole Trodden, Juliana Popovic, Cassidy Wuytenburg, Madison Wilson, Gabby Kohut, Lauren Mainprize, Manager Marianne Bilotta.

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Men’s soccer are champs…again Submitted by FC LONDON and photos by Cam Vassallo The last four years of men’s soccer in London has emphatically put the city on Canadian and North American soccer maps. From the 2012 North American PDL Championship right on through to 2014 and 2015 Canadian Championships, the word “LONDON” rings loud and clear as the word synonymous with soccer success.

When you look at pictures of FC LONDON and London Marconi squads side by side, you start to see some familiar faces, and when you go back even further you find players who participated in representing London as 1989 and 1991 players on youth teams such as the North London Dynamite and North London Cobras. These are players who have played together, practiced together, taken road trips together, and won cham-

pionships together consistently over the last eight years.

Many players have gone on to US scholarships and returned to London to start their careers and consistently give time and energy back to the game. As adults, they continue to play together and continue to win championships. The recent London Marconi 2015 Canadian Challenge Trophy Champions had a roster of players all aged 22-30, and the starting lineup in the Canadian Championship final in Calgary, Alberta contained 11 players, each of whom has played for FC LONDON at one time or another.

The Marconi team, who competed in the Western Ontario Soccer League (WOSL) Premier Division, were forced to take a different route to their championship run than FC LONDON did when they

London Marconi, 2015 Canadian Club Champions

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won their North American Championship in 2012. With approximately 60 games under their belt without a loss, dating all the way back to August 2014, the Canadian Club Championship Challenge Cup is exactly what its namesake says it is: “a Challenge.” Competing teams flew to Calgary and started playing the next day, competing in five games in six days, faced with a “lose and you’re out” format. By the end of the last day, Marconi were victors and for the second year in a row can call themselves Canadian Club Champions.

A huge congratulations to the staff, coaches, management and players for London Marconi for continuing to raise the bar for future generations.

www.fclondon.ca

FC LONDON, 2012 PDL North American Champions

Keep your kiddo active this Fall and Winter!

Our Turf Indoor Development Program is backand running until March Break!

Nor West Turf Indoor Programs

Recreational Program

Competitive Program

Boys

Girls

Boys

Girls

Sat 9AM-9:45AM

Sat 9AM-9:45AM

N/A

2010

Sat 10AM-11AM

Sat 10AM-11AM

N/A

2009-2008

Sat 10AM-11AM

Sat 11AM-12PM

Mon 6PM-7PM

Tue 6PM-7PM

2007-2006

Sat 12PM-1PM

Sat 1PM-2PM

Wed 6PM-7PM

Thurs 6PM-7PM

2005-2004

Sat 2PM-3PM

Sat 3PM-4PM

Mon 7PM-8PM

Tue 7PM-8PM

Active Start: 2012-2011 FUNdamentals:

Learn to Train:

Soccer for Life: 2003-2002

N/A for Indoor

Thur 8PM-9PM

Wed 7PM-8PM

2001

N/A for Indoor

Wed 8PM-9PM

Tues 8PM-9PM

Hyde Park & Gainsborough Neighbourhood - 1490 North Routledge Park

Provincially & Nationally Certified Coaches Small Groups, Footwork Fun and Small Sided Games!

Recreational: 18 weeks $225, 9 weeks $125 Competitive: 20 weeks $300, 10 weeks $160 Complete information online at www.norwestsoccer.com Saturday eve Goal Keeping sessions available too!

We run Active Start through Soccer for Life LTPD programs all year round!

Outdoor Competitive Registration opens Nov. 1st Outdoor Recreational Registration opens Feb 1st Register online via www.norwestsoccer.com

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sportsfiles

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

Masters of their domain Submitted by St. Thomas Soccer Club Cup for the first time in the club’s history.

Winning a championship at any level is typically done by overcoming adversities, and this was certainly evident for St. Thomas, as the road to the finals wasn't an easy one for a veteran team assembled by long-time St. Thomas soccer player Ron Bobier.

The Preliminary round started against the 5th Div. Caribbean Stars, who took an early lead.

But St. Thomas battled back late in the game to St. Thomas Masters B - 3rd Division Cup Champions force overtime, Back Row: Ron Bobier, Nick Sulejmani, Shane Good, John Clarke, Steven Torok, Tim O'Neil, Jamie Smith. Front Row: Tim Sheridan, Jeff West, Mike Smith, Mark Thomas, and then won Paul Jeffrey, Willy Agius, Robert Meth. Missing: Albert Kemmerling, Igor Toth, the match in a Joe Buttigieg, Mark Lewis, Paul Hook, Miki Hambelek, Aaron Renner, JP Rickwood shootout. The ad-

The 3rd Division Cup is an in-season competition between teams in the Middlesex Masters 3rd, 4th, and 5th Divisions. This year, the St. Thomas Masters B team concluded their MMSL 2015 season by capturing the 3rd Division

versity didn’t end there. The Round-of-16 opponent was the strong 4th Div. Three Lions, who also pushed St. Thomas to a penalty shootout, with ‘ageless wonder’ Willy Agius, and ‘scoring machine’ Jeff West leading the way for a second straight shootout victory.

The Quarter-finals saw a familiar opponent in a 3rd Div. PCL C team who finished tied for third place with St. Thomas in the regular season. A strong team effort resulted in a 2-1 victory for St. Thomas, as the team learned from their previous games and focused on a stronger defensive game. Another 3rd Division foe, Woodstock, was the Semi-Final opponent, and Bobier urged his team not to take them lightly, despite the team’s regular season success against them. The St. Thomas team responded well to that urging with a 4-2 victory and a berth in the final.

The Final pitted St. Thomas against the undefeated 3rd Division leaders, Sporting.

But facing the strongest opponent to date wasn’t the only challenge that St. Thomas faced, as the team was also missing a few key players, and had a short bench for the final. The two teams had battled to a 0-0 draw after 45 minutes when adversity struck the St. Thomas team again. Regular keeper Mark Thomas, who had taken a hard hit in the first half, was forced to leave the game at halftime with a suspected cracked rib. Without a regular backup keeper, they turned to defender Robert Meth to take over the keeper duties for the first time all year. However, the change in keeper didn’t faze the strong defence-corps, led by Shane Good and Mike Smith, as they held the league’s top scoring team, Sporting, without a solid scoring opportunity for the remainder of the game. This defensive strength allowed St.Thomas to get their own potent offence going, as they rattled off four straight goals en route to a 4-0 championship victory.

Anyone who plays a sport will tell you that Championships are never easy to win.

And this season, St. Thomas B overcame their share of adversities to achieve that lofty goal, walking off into the off-season as Masters of their domain.

www.stthomassoccer.com

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Detroit Lions vs

Eagles Nov 26,

Packers Dec 3,

sportsfiles

Long-time Beefeater volunteer honoured Submitted by London Beefeaters Webster’s Dictionary defines a volunteer as a person who voluntarily undertakes or expresses a willingness to undertake a service. With our busy lives, it can be difficult to find time to volunteer. But the benefits of volunteering are enormous, not only to ourselves and our families, but to our community as a whole. Many community sports teams would not have coaches, and fundraising

goals would not be met without the tireless efforts of volunteers.

This past spring, the Ontario Football Alliance (OFA) honoured the 2014 Program of Excellence Winners.

Recognition is given to the Administrator of the Year, the Major and Minor Coaches of the Year, and the Volunteer of the Year. The Volunteer of the Year award recognizes the contribution to community sport programs made by a dedicated volunteer who has given countless hours of time so that coaches and athletes can enjoy the benefits of wellorganized sport.

The OFA Volunteer of the Year award was presented to London’s own Jim Stevenson.

After 35 years of volunteer service, no one is more deserving of this award. Jim is a Board Member as well as the Director of Alumni Affairs for the London Beefeaters. He composes an Alumni This year’s Ontario Football Association Volunteer of the Year award was Newsletter update presented to London’s own Jim Stevenson, shown here with each week during the his wife Marty.

49ers Dec 27 /

Buffalo Bills vs

Cowboys Dec 27

season, as well as a monthly one during the offseason. Jim has been both the Beefeaters and OFC statistician since 1981, and has assisted in writing the rules that are used to do game stats properly. He oversees the Beefeaters registration process, CCES education and updates the website. Jim assists in the administration of the OFC Coaches All Star Team, making the OFC schedule and Player of the Week selection as well as updating the OFC Operational Manual every year. Each year, he also produces a booklet with teams and league stats, which is given to each team at the AGM and keeps track of all OFC records, keeping them up to date.

The London Beefeaters would like to thank Jim for his many years of tireless and dedicated service. In fact, the Beefeaters would like to thank all of our volunteers. They are definitely one of our greatest assets and one of the reasons we can celebrate 40 years of Beefeater Football!

www.londonbeefeaters.org

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sportsfiles

Celebrating 50 years Submitted by the London Squash Club In anticipation of its 50th anniversary next April, the London Squash and Fitness Club (LSFC) is holding a series of events leading up to that impressive milestone. On September 10, the club hosted a cocktail reception to kick off the party. The club's founding member, Mr. Bill Duffield Sr., was in attendance to cut a ceremonial cake, and recount his memories of the club's establishment in 1966.

The London Squash and Fitness Club,

located at 76 Albert Street, London, ON, is a non-profit, member-owned organization, and is a hidden gem in the community. What was once a family home has undergone several expansions over the years, including over half a million dollars in facility upgrades in 2011. The LSFC now features four international singles courts (two glass-backed) and one glassbacked North American doubles court.

It has a well-equipped fitness center on the second floor, and a main floor club

lounge with a fully licensed bar.

The club is active throughout the year with member ladders, club tournaments, city league matches, exhibitions, and social events. An annual highlight is the Nash Cup – a PSA and WSA sanctioned tournament that brings some of the world’s top male and female squash professionals to the club.

Stay tuned for upcoming events as the LSFC approaches its 50th birthday!

www.lsrc.ca

On Sept. 10, the London Squash and Fitness Club hosted a cocktail reception to kick off a celebration that will culminate in April with the club’s 50th anniversary.

Squash at its best Submitted by Jay Nash From Sept. 14-19, London Squash & Fitness hosted many of the world’s top players in the 8th annual NASH Cup. Thanks to generous sponsors, dedicated members, and sellout crowds, this event has become one of the most popular stops on the PSA tour. Players from 17 countries competed each evening in single elimination matches vying for $15K USD (men’s) and $5K USD (women’s) purses.

Competition was stiff with rallies as long as 74 shots and matches up to 95 minutes.

While London Squash is not a large facility, this event draws global attention through live online streaming at www.nashcup.com.

A special thank you goes out to our sponsors, without whom this event could not happen: The Roberts Nash Advisory Group; National Bank Financial; London Squash & Fitness; Goodlife Fitness; Holstead Redmond Limited; Manulife Investment; Mesh Communications; Nash Jewellers;

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Ontario SEO; Picton Mahoney Asset Management; Renaissance Investments; Sleeman Brewery; Window Film Systems; BMW / Mini London; Dynamic Funds; Empire Life; Ferguson Patterson Law; Horizons ETF’s; Polymath Interactive; Scotiabank; Selectpath; TLC Landscaping; VIA Rail Canada.

Junior Squash Squash is a tremendous lifelong sport.

It’s played year round, and rates as one of the world’s healthiest sports. While many of today’s participants began playing in college or university, strong junior programs are drawing kids as young as 5 onto the courts. London Squash has developed one of the strongest programs in Ontario.

Participants can advance from weekly lessons, to regional (Gary Waite Tour), provincial (Grand Prix; Silver; Gold), national, and even international competition.

The City of London has 9 squash facilities and 32 courts. London Squash and LondonSportsXpress

NASH Cup host Jay Nash with finalist Abdulla Mohammed Al Tamimi (Qatar) and 2015 champion Declan James (England)

Fitness features five courts, and is a great place to learn and advance in the sport.

For more information on Junior Squash programming, please contact Jay Francis (Squash Director) – nickmaster7000@gmail.com or Holly Delavigne (Junior Program Instructor; Gary Waite Tour Manager) – hdelavigne@gmail.com.

www.nashcup.com

sportsfiles

Get strong, have fun!

Submitted by Junction Climbing Centre Climbing is often thought of as an ‘extreme’ sport, where the goal is thrill and adrenaline. But in reality, climbing produces some of the strongest, fittest athletes in the world today – just ask anyone who has ever watched Ninja Warrior.

Climbing provides an intense and focused workout, and increasing numbers of people are abandoning traditional gym memberships and instead getting their strength and fitness training through indoor rock climbing.

Climbing can be divided into two major disciplines – roped climbing and bouldering. Roped climbing is what is more traditionally thought of as climbing -ascending walls with a rope to catch you if you fall. Bouldering is shorter climbs of only a few moves. Instead of rope, the climber lands on a large soft pad. The lack of rope allows for a greater freedom of movement, and faster turnaround time between climbs. In both kinds of climb-

ing, your route is indicated by a colour and marked with a grade of difficulty, letting you quickly find a climb that matches your ability.

Climbing cycles intense activity and rest – similar to lifting weights. It adds an element of problem solving as you try to figure out the correct sequence of movements to complete the climb, and it adds a meaningful sense of accomplishment when you finally top out the climb.

Climbing also adds in a social quality where you can watch and learn from the technique and approach of others.

Veteran climbers mentor novices, and everyone cheers on each other when seeing someone finally complete a problem they've been working on.

Climbing extensively works forearms, shoulders, and chest muscles, but also requires incredible core and leg strength.

You can get started in climbing by coming down to the Junction, completing a

waiver, and having our staff show you the different systems and kinds of climbing.

We offer day passes and memberships, as well as weekly classes on roped climbing and bouldering. Check us out online to learn more.

www.junctionclimbing.com

More and more, climbing is being seen as an activity that can provide an intense and focused workout

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WCS supports sport

Proudly sponsored by

Submitted by Western Continuing Studies and photo by David Chidley The staff at Western Continuing Studies aren’t shy about their love of sport. We wanted to learn more, so we asked: What teams do you support? What kinds of sports are you (or your family) involved in? Do you get involved in any community or charity athletic events?

Karen DeHeus, Program Support Manager “I’m a London Knights fan and a Toronto Blue Jays fan. I’m not currently involved in any sports, but previously I played co-ed non-competitive softball,

and I usually do the stair climb and big bike for heart and stroke.”

Aimee Froude, Practicum Coordinator, Post-Degree Programs “I like to watch hockey and soccer. I’m not a huge football lover, but I will support our Western Mustangs! My family is a big soccer family, so I grew up playing soccer and both my kids play competitively. My son runs track, so we are very involved with track meets. I have done the United Way Stair Climb, The Big Bike

The team at Western Continuing Studies Back row (left to right): Margaret, Mary, Christine, Carolyn, Tanya, Chris. Middle row: Aimee, Karen, JW (Western's mascot), Michelle, Megan. Bottom row: Nicole, Alison, Heather. Absent: Allyson, Ashley

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and the Colour Run.” Margaret Dow, Program Assistant, Post-Degree “I follow the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Canadian National Rugby Team, and I participate in rugby and running. I’m involved with the London St. George's Rugby Club, and participate in the Army Run, MS Walk, and Terry Fox Run.” Alison Adair, Communications Manager “I’m 100% on the Blue Jays’ cheering squad, and I follow Arsenal (football/soccer), and England for Euro/World Cups. I enjoy running, and I've run Jordan's ‘run the runway’ to raise money for YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth. Also, the last two years we’ve had a team do the stair climb for United Way.” Ashley Kaniuk, Information Specialist “I’m personally involved with the Mandarin MS Walk every year. One of my best friends was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis when she was a teenager, so I like to support her and the cause. Our friends and I participate by raising money and completing the walk. For this year’s walk, our small team raised more than $2,000.”

Allyson Eckel, Communications Assistant “I’m a huge Toronto Maple Leafs fan.

I’m not currently involved in any sports continued on next page>>

has quietly been building a permanent home for London’s volleyball commumyself, but in the past I’ve played recrenity. Featuring over 19,000 square feet ational ringette, flag-football and soccer, of playing surface, across six full-sized and I used to horseback ride. I’ve also volleyball courts, athletes are competing participated in the Terry Fox Run.” on our state-of-the-art VersaCourt sports Nicole Tate-Hill, Program Manager, flooring.

Post-Degree “I’m a fan of the Arizona Diamondbacks in baseball, the New Orleans Saints in football, and the Toronto Maple Leafs in hockey. My husband and I play baseball (although I’ve had two years off), and our 2-year-old son ’plays’ soccer. We do the big bike for heart and stroke every year.”

Carolyn Young, Director “I support the Canadian Olympic team.

When my three sons were younger, I supported minor hockey, local track and cross-country, as well as competitive swimming. I’m an avid recreational cyclist, and I ride to work two to three times

city. No more taxi service!

Withare Fallenjoyed just around themy corner, sports within family, Supreme golf, Courts will once againand welcome including curling, baseball volthousands of players We are leyball.

My family alsoeach runsweek. and particitherefore some exciting changes pates in a making charity golf tournament each to the facility to improve the experiyear and I usually do a charity walk each enceas ofwell.” our players and spectators, with year project completion dates set for the end Tanya Filipcic of 2014.

“I enjoy attending live sporting events ‘Like’ us on Facebook and follow us on of local teams (the Knights and Western Twitter for exciting announcements about Mustangs). Over the past few years, I’ve upcoming tournament and community started following U.S. College Football events. For bookings, please visit our and have really enjoyed following website: supremecourts.ca.

Michigan University (Go Blue!), which has www.supremecourts.ca led to me also enjoying NFL football (the Lions, Seahawks and Cowboys). I have been involved in the United Way stair climb and a few charity fun runs (The Colour Run, Zombie Run, Glow in the Dark run, and Foam Run).”

backgrounds and orientations the skills of seven volleyball. per week sports (except–innot thejust winter).

In previUsing a comprehensive approach aimed ous years, I have participated in the Big at developing socially conscious Bike Ride, United Way Stair Climb,athTerry letes, the SSA indoor classes in Fox Run and theoffers Gobblers' Gallop.” soccer, basketball, volleyball, baseball, Christine Wilton “I like to support our local teams quite regularly, like the London Knights, the London Lightning, and our fine student athletes at Western. I’m a huge NCAA basketball fan (go UNC!). I follow the Blue Jays, Maple Leafs, and Toronto FC. I will also watch the Detroit Lions with my dad, and we like to go to the Grey cup.

I’m a HUGE Olympic fanatic and I love to cheer on team Canada! I played Varsity soccer in University. Recreationally, I play beach volleyball and have competed in runs of all distances.”

Mary Paterson “I follow the Detroit Tigers (baseball) and London Knights (hockey). Several

www.wcs.uwo.ca

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Volunteer/Intern jobs are also available as a: • Reporter/Writer/Editor • Photographer/Videographer • Events & Promotions Co-Ordinator

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LAC loaded with events in ’15-‘16 Submitted by the London Aquatic Club The 2015-16 swimming year is underway, and the London Aquatic Club has its sights set on some exciting opportunities in this Olympic and Paralympic year. The club recently held its awards banquet, where the many outstanding accomplishments of LAC swimmers in 2014-15 were celebrated, including our most improved swimmers, club champions, club record-

National champions Maggie and Jessica pose for a photo in Quebec City in July.

setters, nationally-ranked swimmers, our three swimmers who represented Canada, and the Megan Holliday Spirit Award winner, which was presented to Aitana Robinson, who is now in her first year on scholarship at Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey.

Megan Holliday was an LAC’er who swam to two bronze medals for Canada at the 1987 Pan-American Games, and the Holliday family, through the London Community Foundation, honours Megan’s memory by annually supporting the one swimmer who most embodies her beautiful spirit.

The club’s 20 coaches oversee training programs for approximately 250 swimmers at four different city pools, the Canada Games Aquatic Centre being the primary training site.

There are nine different training groups within the club, starting with our youngest and least experienced swimmers in the Development groups swimming three times per week, through our Age Group

programs for swimmers between the ages of 9-14, while our Senior programs (Bronze, Silver and Gold) offer more training (up to nine times weekly) and competition opportunities for our high school-aged swimmers. In 2015-16 the club will be represented at no less than 30 competitions across the region, province and country. The LAC also plays host to six competitions annually, drawing hundreds of swimmers and parents from across Ontario to the Forest City.

The club offers opportunities for all swimmers to be the best that they can be, in a positive, caring, safe environment. Anyone who thinks they might like to try our great sport is welcome to a free, no obligation two-week trial.

www.londonaquaticclub.ca

LEADING • ACHIEVING • COMPETING

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An LAC relay team gets ‘psyched up’ to race at the Regional Championships.

A Good-to-Great start for FCDC

is proudly supported by

Submitted by Forest City Diving Club

Our new head coach, Luda Zakharenko, sport that incorporates strength and started off the season by receiving an flexibility while achieving precise entry in award of excellence in coaching in the water. This cannot be achieved without (Provincial Champion and 2015 Good-to-Great category. The award was Dryland exercises which assimilates the Diver of the year) will be training the presented by the Coaching Association of action of the dive without using water.

Precompetitive development program Ontario, and it recognizes “the imporGymworld Inc is a fully equipped gymand Jamie Dutz (Top 12 National finalist) tance of leadership, performance and nastics facility with trampoline, foam pits will be training a Learn-to-Dive group. value of human insight which are all and a large gym floor where FCDC divers FCDC welcomes new coaches Gatquatic integral to great coaching.” spend a significant amount of time doing diver Dylan Phillips (Top 12 National fiCanada’s next generation of young div- repetitive exercises from handstands to nalist) and Isabella St. George of Ottawa ers embarked on a journey of a lifetime somersaults. Since diving is a muscle (Gymnastic/Cheer Provincial Finalist) to this October for the 2015 UANA Pan memory sport, repetition is the key to our club and they will be coaching LearnAmerican Junior Championships. The success. Also new for the competitive to-Dive as well. Please follow us on twitcompetition took place in Matanzas, divers this year is a ballet program that ter @forestcitydive ore visit us Cuba from October 8-11, 2015. Following focuses on stretching and improving flexwww.forestcitydiving.com the success of their Senior National ibility (and of course, pointed toes). teammates this past summer at the Pan Our Learn-to-Dive Am Games in Toronto, the Junior National program has grown! team made a mark of their own. TwentyReturning coaches Seven medals were won for Canada.

Andreea Marinescu, FCDC diver Joshua Inglis competed in the Boys B level on 3 metre. Joshua fought hard in his outstanding performance finishing behind elite divers from Mexico and Columbia with a Bronze medal.

Congratulations on Joshua Inglis of FCDC earned the The Forest City Diving Club spend plenty of your achievement!

Bronze medal in the boys B 3 Metre time at Gymworld Inc. doing dryland Head Coach Luda Zakharenko was honoured with an Diving is an elite event behind divers from Columbia exercises from handstands to somersaults award of excellence in the ‘Good-to-Great’ category and Mexico.

@SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

Loucks have a love for synchro Submitted by London Synchronized Swimming Club Ask Baillie and Larissa Loucks what they love best about Synchronized Swimming and you’ll pretty much get the same answer: ‘what makes swimming fun is that you’re part of a team.’ Despite the early morning swims, the long commutes from Sarnia, and the cold water, Larissa and Baillie love swimming with their new club, London Synchro.

At the ripe age of 8, Baillie dove straight into competitive Synchronized swimming with St. John’s Sea Stars in Newfoundland. Her love of dance and

Larissa and Baillie Loucks relocated from Newfoundland to southwestern Ontario to pursue their love of synchro as part of the London Synchronized Swimming Club

swimming was a perfect fit for her, says her mom, Corrine. And, after only her first year in competitive, Baillie made Newfoundland’s Provincial team, placing in the top 15 for girls under 10. It wasn’t long before the family relocated to Ontario and looked for a club that would continue to help the girls grow and improve in the sport.

In 2013, Billie’s sister Larissa (at only age 7) decided she too would join synchro, and the girls began swimming competitively with Variety Village in the Toronto area. Larissa’s strong swimming and gymnastics background helped her to achieve multiple 1st place finishes in the 8 and under figures category throughout Ontario. She also took home the coveted first place trophy for girls 8U figures at the Ontario Trilliums meet held in Nepean that year. Not to be outdone, her 8U team also picked up first place finishes as well.

It’s no wonder these girls continued to excel in the sport and garnered top 10 placements in the 2013-2014 season.

With another family relocation to the Sarnia area in 2014, they now endure 3-4 weekly commutes to London for team, duet and solo practices. London is the only Provincial Club in Southwestern Ontario near to Sarnia. Busy mom Corrine juggles the family restaurant, school and

synchro all from outside of London.

But the hectic schedules aside, Corrine and her husband, Doug, feel that the benefits of synchro give the girls personal joy and keep them fit, happy and focused.

Homework is sometimes done on route to London, but the girls don’t complain.

This dedicated synchro family wouldn’t have it any other way. As a mom, Corrine feels that the sport is so reliant on its team members and coaches for success that the girls form exceptionally close relationships with one another throughout the year.

“Even as parents, we have experienced strong synchro teammate/family bonding in our experience to date, and most notably with the London Synchro Club,” said Corrine.

With the start of the 2015-2016 season and training in full swing, the girls, now 11 and 9, have set new goals for themselves this year. Placing in the top 10 in her age category is on Larissa’s mind, and Baillie is focused on continuing to improve and do well in all of her categories from figures to team and solo. There is little doubt that these girls have what it takes to meet their new goals!

Interested in Synchro? Novice programs begin in October. Please see our website for program details.

www.londonsynchroclub.ca

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Celebrating the coaches Submitted by Middlesex Swimming The Middlesex Swimming Club coaching staff has more than 90 combined years of competitive swimming and/or water polo experience. Here’s a look at the impressive coaching corps…

Middlesex is proud to announce their 2015-2016 coaching staff.

Brooke Heath • 25 years of competitive swimming experience.

• Middlesex Swimming: 2011-present.

Tim Ebbs • 15 years of competitive swimming experience.

• Middlesex Swimming: 2012-present.

Cathy Clay

love and appreciate the sport of swimming/water polo as age-groupers, while continuing to develop skills such as commitment and hard work. Once this love for swimming/water polo has been achieved, the proper foundation will be in place to stay active for life and reach long term goals.

Arturo Ortiz

Brooke Heath

Cathy Clay

Tim Ebbs

Middlesex Swimming is a competitive swim, water polo and masters team located in London, St. Marys and Stratford, Canada. Contact us for your free trial and meet out coaching staff.

info@middlesexswimming.ca www.middlesexswimming.ca

• 25 years of competitive swimming experience.

• Middlesex Swimming: 2012-present.

Arturo Ortiz: • 25 years of competitive water polo experience • Middlesex Swimming: 2015- present At Middlesex Swimming, we strive to provide the best product possible for our members every season. We believe that our athletes should learn to

Middlesex Swimming strives to provide the best product possible for its swimmers, and that means having great coaching in place.

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Settling into fall, we are all getting back into our routines and starting to plan schedules. For many companies, sports teams and schools fundraises will be on the ag What a great way to raise money for a cause then by playing sports. At Supreme Courts have many options to host a successful fundraiser event.

sportsfiles

Sports and Fundraising at Supreme Courts Submitted by Supreme Courts

Pack the House Pack the

Settling into fall, we are all getting back into our routines and starting to plan our schedules.

For many companies, sports teams and schools fundraises will be on the agenda. What a great way to raise money for a cause then by playing sports. At Supreme Courts we have many options to host a successful fundraiser event.

House

Bring the crowds in with volleyball, bubble soc dodgeball or; any sport you choose. With 6 reg size courts we can pack a crowd. We can orga whole thing for you or you can run it yourself.

Feed the space if you want to run multiple games or Crowd activities. One thing is for sure everybody will have a blast!

Bring the crowds in with volleyball, bubble soccer, dodgeball or any sport you choose. With 6 regulation size courts, we can pack a crowd. We can organize the whole thing for you or you can run it yourself. Plenty of space if you want to run multiple games or activities. One thing is for sure, everybody will have a blast!

We have a large kitchen space for you to sell hot dogs, pizza, drinks or snacks.

Satisfy everybody’s sweet tooth with a bake sale. Always a hit and a great opportunity to add more revenue to your fundraiser.

Hit your Feed the Target

Crowd

Set your target and then exceed it. Raise money by making teams and playing in our courts, sell food in our kitchen or have a BBQ in our patio area. How about an auction or raffle in our lounge area. The possibilities are endless.

Book your next event with us 226-667-9900.

We have a large kitchen space for you to sell hot dogs, pizza, drin snacks. Satisfy everybody’s sweet tooth with a bake sale.

Always a hit and a great opportunity to add more revenue to your fundraiser.

Hit your Target

Set your target and then exceed it. Raise money by making teams 26 LondonSportsXpress.ca playing in our courts, LondonSportsXpress sell food in our kitchen or have a BBQ in our

sportsfiles

22 teams strong Submitted by London Volleyball Club The new OVA Tryout Window policy to respond as effectively as possible. came into effect this year making tryouts REPS on REPS was our first response to interesting to say the least. Athletes and bringing our members closer together. families in Ontario are seeing the many Then we structured our season by havbenefits of the growing number of voling our teams work closer together. We leyball clubs in their regions. Families have reorganized our team of coaches are embracing the opportunity to explore to provide quality coaching at all levels. their options and experience the freedom We have invested in our youth with the of choice. appointment of Sean McKay as our Jr. This year, LVC scheduled tryouts with Development Coordinator. Our Timbits the "respect of our families freedom of and Feed the Fire coaching continues choice" in mind We allowed you time to to thrive and registration has therefore choose and you did. The final outcome increased. was 22 teams. For this, today, we give And finally, where we hope to have thanks. shown our biggest commitment to your Thank you to all our families who chose trust in LVC is by simply allowing our to be part of the LVC Family! Since our family members the opportunity to play inaugural year, your trust in us has been volleyball. We have boys teams at all something that we take seriously. We levels!! We have three 14U and 15U girls are honoured by your trust and we are also proud of our commitment to follow through on this.

Whether you are Fury, Intensity, Ignite, Heat or Inferno, division one or division three, we equally value your commitment to our family.

We listen to all of our members and we try 15U Fury's Coach Deryck talking early prep for setters

@SportsXpressLON

L-R, Kelsey Dynes, Nimi Bassi, Sebastian Lethbridge, Kyra Makrakos, Jen Black, Hamza Chaudhry

teams. We added a 17U Fury team and we are the only London club to provide the opportunity for our London female athletes to graduate from the club experience with our 18U Intensity team.

We are proud of our 22 teams!! 8 boys teams! 47 young women playing volleyball at the 17u/18u level!!! Strong coaching at all levels!! Increased focus on youth!! Reps on Reps!! More holiday clinics and camps!! We are proud of our commitment to your trust in LVC. A sincere thank you to all!!!

www.lvcfire.com

The boys from 15U Heat taking it all in!

LondonSportsXpress.ca

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sportsfiles

Impressive talent for 2015-16 Submitted by Forest City Volleyball Club Thank you to athletes of all levels who participated in tryouts with focus and enthusiasm! Volleyball is becoming more and more popular in the London area, and FCVC was pleased with its largest ever turnout during tryouts for its 18 competitive teams, including overwhelming numbers in the junior divisions (12U - 16U). On the developmental side, the Acorn weeknight program is full to capacity, while the Sunday Acorn program is running a pilot program of combined training and tournament competition. The future is bright!

Our competitive teams will represent London well at the top of the Provincial and National ranks, and our developmental programs are working with the next generation of elite athletes. Forest City Volleyball Club is one of only five clubs in

Canada to be awarded Volleyball Canada Club Accreditation for 2015. We are thrilled to demonstrate our commitment to excellence with each and every one of this season's FCVC athletes!

Coaching for Success at Forest City Volleyball Club FCVC owes its long-term success to its roster of dedicated and skilled coaches.

We are thrilled to announce our FCVC 2015-16 Coaching Roster, comprised of highly decorated coaches who are each committed to giving our FCVC athletes the best volleyball experience possible.

Technical Director: Dean Lowrie Coaches Emeritus: Vaughan Peckham, Jane Peckham

Boys 18U Green - (graduating class preparing for post secondary teams) Front Row L to R: Najeem Javeed, Owen Poczik, Colten Roberts, Jacob Farquharson, Nick Cook, Nate Aliga. Back Row L to R: Eric Pierce, Matthew Baxter, Matt Forbes, Jacky Liu, Nick Tales, Loudon Herold

Coaches - Girls Teams: Girls 12U: Mike Tait, Phil Nagle Girls 13U: Bonnie Cooper, Shannon Scatcherd, Kirby Duffy Girls 14U: Stu Pow, Chuck Chelladurai, Peter Sum, Teri Timpany, Lauren Zanini, Kevin Rowe, Katie Timpany, Kaitlyn Seow Girls 15U: Julie Venhuizen, Susan Buckman, Juan Giraldo, Chris Monteiro, Melissa MacNeil Girls 16U: Peter Gauld, Bob Mann, Kylie Wasser, Bradley West, Corey Stewart, Erin Miller Girls 17U: Jason McKee, Joffre Ribout, Laura Lytwynec

Coaches - Boys Teams: Boys 12U-13U: Tom Kerkoff, Gavin Young Boys 14U: John Hong, Bryan Kussner, Craig Rideout Boys 15U: Tim Oldham, Paul Duerden, Kirby Duffy Boys 16U: Dave Phoenix, Brent Mould, Stefan Pizzinato Boys 18U: Mark Peckham, Mark Simon, Girls 16U Green - (Bronze medallists at Nationals last year at 15U) Travis Wintjes, Back row (L to R) Brianne Camirand, Holly Thomson, Iris Fletcher, Maggie Greenfield, Megan Nevett, Josie Heeney. Front Row (L to R) Kiana Huggins, Natalie Lyons, Nicole Peter Sidler Nguyen, Emily Pratt, Hannah Petcoff, Katelyn Grasman.

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

FOR AN IN-HOME DESIGN CONSULTATION CALL 519 661 - 6895

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LondonSportsXpress

Team London off to Florida

By Tyler Schepens

Team London to compete in National Championship

Girls Under 15 division: Gold Medals to the Red Team (L to R): Julia Davis (absent: Gabrielle Harrison and Felicia Moyer).

Silver Medals to the Blue Team (L to R): Meghan Purkis (absent: Mackenzie Mercer and Paige Cunningham)

Fall Junior League a big success

The Maple Leaf Junior Tour’s National The London Junior Golf Championship will be well represented Development Centre saw over by the London area. Two Team London 40 juniors participate in the juniors, Carson Dethomasis and Cam Fall junior league this season. The juniors Kellett, will be participating in the twocontinue to build on their skills and reday National Championship at Reunion ally enjoyed the on-course play events.

Golf Resort in Kissimmee, Florida. Under Congratulations to the gold and silver the guidance of award-winning PGA medalists. Here are the division results: coach Brian Gallant, three players qualiwww.londonjuniorgolf.com fied for the event based on their performance on the tour this season, which included two wins and several top 10 finishes. We wish them all the Boys Under 11 division: Blue Team (L to R): Jeffrey McKay, Ben Kuiack, Gavin Kuiack, best!

Henry Yan, Phillip Millward, Michael Pispidkis, Conner Schives and Randy McKay (absent: Ethan Secco and Grant Cunningham). Silver medals to the Red team (L to R): Lucas Hollomby, Rhys Landis, Matthew Landis, Cooper Hollomby, Liam Murtland and Gabriel Liu (absent: Cameron Deeks, Evan Thomas, and Aidan Rayburn)

Boys Under 15 division: Gold Medals to the Red Team (L to R): Scott Mckenzie, Owen Karnas, JP Marochko, Austin Kuiack (absent: Quinton Cosby and Anthony Lima). Silver Medals to the Blue Team (L to R): front - Nicholas Groves, Jeffrey Groves; back – Angus McKenzie, Josh Adams (absent: Ben Secco and Nick Goudsbloem)

Girls Under 11 division: Gold medals to both the Blue and Red teams (L to R): Carly McKay, Foster Gallant, Elaina Gallant, Cheyanne Kunder, Sara Nasser, Alia Nasser, Maya Purkis, and Sara Nasser

Owen Zimmer Lambeth Minor Hockey Owen Zimmer has enjoyed a wonderful career in the Ontario Minor Hockey Association, being part of several tournament winning teams while earning multiple most valuable player awards along the way. Last season, he captained his Lambeth team (which was full of inexperienced players) and helped guide them to a tournament win in Buffalo, New York where he scored a hat trick in the final and won MVP. The highlight of his career so far is being awarded the W.A. Evans Memorial Award, ‘presented annually to the Lambeth Minor Hockey player who shows ability, leadership, and is academically sound -- an all-around upstanding junior citizen.’

Outside of hockey, Zimmer has run cross country and track and field, and competed as a member of his high school football team. He graduated with honours from Lambeth Public School, where he played the violin in the school’s orchestra and also took part in the acting productions.

@SportsXpressLON

LondonSportsXpress.ca

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sportsfiles

2015 Club Championship Results Submitted by City of London Municipal Golf

2015 Thames Valley Ladies Club Championship Results

2015 River Road Men’s Club Championship Results

Overall Champion: Alex Amos - 162 0-20 Flight: Sophie Parsons - 176 21-24 Flight: Janey Laderoute - 190 25-29 Flight: K.E. Kim - 197 30-35 Flight: Janette Hodgins - 215 36+ Flight: Joyce Firby - 219 Senior Champion: Sophie Parsons - 176 Super Senior Champion: Okja Kiel - 189

Overall Champion – Joe Lindsay – 141 “A” Flight Winner – Andy Boon - 142 “B” Flight Winner – Tyler Rathbone – 156 “C” Flight Winner – Len Bazay – 165 “D” Flight Winner – Sandy Colameco – 177 Overall Senior Champion – John Malcolm – 146

2015 Fanshawe Ladies Club Championship Results

2015 Thames Valley Men’s Club Championship Results Overall Champion: Jay Dunlap 67-68-135 A-Flight (0-6): Scott Jones 67-72-139 B-Flight (7-11): Errol Lake 75-74-149 C-Flight (12-15): Kirk MacDuff 75-80-155 D-Flight (16-20): Ken Alexander 84-81-165 E-Flight (21+): Ed Forrest 87-92-179 Overall Senior Champion: Errol Lake 75-74-149 Super Senior Champion: Ron Kalar 82-80-162

Overall Champion: Nadine Logan - 85 0-20 Flight: Christine Billingsley - 88 21-24 Flight: Debby Kenny - 103 25-29 Flight: Faith Drabbe - 92 30-35 Flight: Cathy Matheson - 96 36+ Flight: Carrol Belanger - 135 Senior Champion: Linda Depatie - 91

Find us on Facebook: Search ‘City of London Municipal Golf Courses’

Follow us on Twitter:

2015 Fanshawe Men’s Club Championship Results.

Search ‘CityGolfCourses’ or http:twitter/CityGolfCourses

Overall Champion – Tim Torrens – 138 “A” Flight Winner – Joe Christiaans - 140 “B” Flight Winner – Cliff Brown – 150 “C” Flight Winner – Brian Walls – 162 “D” Flight Winner – Dave Ryan – 174 "E" Flight Winner - Chris Philpotts - 174 Overall Senior Champion – Tim Torrens – 138 Super Senior Champion - Cliff Brown - 150

www.london.ca/golf

RICHMOND DIAMONDS F I N E J EWE L L E R S

428 Richmond St London, Ontario

519.601.9099 richmonddiamonds.ca We’re your Diamond Experts

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sportsfiles

TGA London takes silver at Bluewater Cup Submitted by TGA London – Premier Junior Golf The Bluewater Cup is the world’s first ever TGA Premier Junior Golf international golf tournament, and Team Canada was the brainchild of TGA London franchise owners Joe and Sue Barnes and Brian Miller. Team USA was created by TGA Southeast Michigan franchise owner Dave Robinson. Together, the Bluewater Cup was created. Accolades were heaped

upon the event and the organizers from all over North America, as it was a great success!

Twelve players representing Team Canada and 12 players representing Team USA tee’d it up at the Holiday Inn Golf Club in Sarnia, Ontario to duke it out in a best ball team format.

What made the tournament so special, besides the many parents, grandparents, volunteers and coaches on hand, was the fact that the players were aged 4 to 14.

Yes, that’s not a typo. Players from TGA London who were merely 4 years of age played in this extraordinary event.

Not only that, but the TGA London 4-yearolds played exTwelve players between the ages of 4 and 14 represented Team tremely well against Canada at the Bluewater Cup, the first ever TGA Premier Junior Golf players almost twice

their age. Kudos are due to their parents and coaches for such great preparation.

All TGA London/Team Canada players were exceptional in every way, especially as great ambassadors and hosts to their American counterparts who won the gold medal (four matches to two) and the Bluewater Cup 2015 edition.

www.playtga.ca/london

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international tournament

@SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

Celebrating 10 years!

Submitted by The Little Gym of London It was 10 years ago that The Little Gym first came to London, and we can easily say there has been no looking back! Back then, if you told us about all the incredible people that we would meet, all the wonderful relationships we would develop, and how many staff and students we would see grow and prosper, we would not have believed it. Now, that dream is our reality!

Thirteen years ago, we (Ms. Mari, and Mr. Ed) had different careers. Our first child had just been born. In that first year of parenthood, our eyes were opened as to how much WE had to learn about what children were capable of! We were looking for a place where we could be educated as parents and our child could be entertained and learn while having fun (not realizing that they were learning). We

Celebrating 10 wonderful years in London, The Little Gym would like to thank everyone who has made it a success. Thousands of students have gone through the program, and thousands more will over the next 10 years!

could not find something that completely fit our needs. Fifteen months later, our second child arrived and we realized that we still hadn’t found “IT”.

One night, we got a pop up on our computer that asked “Have you thought about Children’s Education at The Little Gym?” We discovered that there were no locations in Canada. We did some research, visited their head office, and we were impressed from then on. This was exactly what we were looking for and it was what our kids needed. And if our kids needed this, then we knew others’ did too!

In September of 2005, we opened the first Little Gym in Sherwood Forest Mall with only four staff. Then, in November 2005, our third child arrived! Some readers might remember seeing her asleep at the desk. Since then, we have taught thousands of students, employed many wonderful staff and have made some wonderful long-lasting relationships with many of you! Occasionally, we come across a child that we taught 10 years ago and seeing them floods us with wonderful memories! Now some of our former staff have families of their own and we have the pleasure of teaching them too!

We’d simply like to take a moment and say THANK-YOU. Thanks to our wonderful members who gave us a chance in London and have grown to love us!

Thanks to the wonderful staff (currently 23 awesome team members) who have stayed with us for years and years and love to watch the kids grow and develop as much as we do! Thanks to our former staff and members who continue to tell friends and spread the word about the great things that happen with a child’s growth and development at The Little Gym! We are looking forward to another 10 years in Sherwood Forest Mall, and we look forward to teaching and watching thousands more students in the years to come!

‘Happy Handstands!‘

www.tlglondoncan.com

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Detroit Lions vs

Eagles Nov 26,

Packers Dec 3,

Power Cheer in high gear Submitted by Power Cheer Gym Fall season at the Power Cheer Gym is peak time for full steam ahead training for every team. PCG Viper squads start at 5 years old (Mini) and run all the way up through Youth (7-11), Junior (11-14), Senior (14-18) and past University to the ‘Open’ division (17- Adult). There are four different levels of competitive teams, and even a Special Needs program (all ages).

Aside from prep for the November competitions in both Ontario and the U.S., PCG has been represented at a number of area sport and charity events.

The London Knights season opener saw 30 athletes and their families for a lobby demo and greet, and PCG members will be on hand at the Light the Night Walk, the Mustangs vs. Ottawa football game, and the Santa Claus Parade. PCG is also hosting one of the upcoming National Team elite talent combines, as well as

The no obligation free try-it and like it policy allows new cheerleaders to experience an age and skill appropriate team before joining. Parents will love the large, elevated viewing comfy loft area as well as the lobby café-lounge with seating for 40+ parents, full wi-fi access, work tables to read, relax, and recharge in during the practices.

It is never too late to get involved with a team at the Power Cheer Gym, and the fully credentialed, friendly and fun staff and coaches are always welcoming new athletes. Visit us online or call 519-667-0565.

‘Trunk or Treat,’ a Breast Cancer awareness campaign, and even a Blue Jays (bandwagon) practice week.

The four collegiate teams based at the Power Cheer Gym (Western Coed, Western All-Girl, Fanshawe Black Falcons and Crazy Fish) are in full-out mode with their National championships coming up in early December in Toronto. PCG is the only cheer gym in Canada that has this many collegiate cheer athletes training under the same roof. Current high school cheer and gymnastics athletes that are interested in pursuing collegiate cheer are highly encouraged to get involved at PCG now via tumbling lessons or on a cheer team.

www.powercheergym.com pcgvipers

@PCGVipers

At the London Knights season opener, 30 Power Cheer Gym athletes and their families took part in a lobby demo and a meet and greet

49ers Dec 27 /

Buffalo Bills vs

Cowboys Dec 27

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sportsfiles

CheerStrike’s little Royals Submitted by CheerStrike Cheerleading is not just for teens. The world of competitive cheerleading has opened up to all ages, and at CheerStrike we have lots of little Royals. Our Tiny Knights in Armour team is comprised of 14 super talented kids aged six, five and four.

They are a level one team, which means they compete using skills like cartwheels, back walkovers, front walkovers and stunts that go up to shoulder height. This team practices twice a week for a total of

two hours.

Our Mini Majesty team is made up of 13 super talented kids aged eight and seven. They are the only level two mini team in the city. At level two they compete using skills like back handsprings and round off back handsprings and stunts that go up above their shoulder height. This team practices twice a week for a total of three hours.

These athletes are young, but they’re capable of focus, hard work and learning complicated choreography.

Cheer has many benefits for children at this young age. Cheerleading develops their strength, coordinaCheerStrike’s 2014/2015 Tiny Level 1 Team. Photo by Dynamic Sports Photography

CheerStrike’s Majesty mini level 2 team is comprised of 13 super talented kids aged eight and seven.

Photo by Deborah VanLoon

tion, stamina and their brain! Having to do complicated choreography while performing athletic skills stimulates their brains and encourages their brain and body to work together. They don't only lift other athletes into the air and flip themselves backwards, but they do all this to counts while moving in transitions and performing for a crowd. The results we see from young children having to combine all these skills is an improvement in focus, at cheer and school, and a development of confidence and self-esteem in themselves. If you are interested in the benefits of cheer for your child, contact us today at info@cheerstrikeroyals.com.

www.cheerstrikeroyals.com

Mindfulness and Mental Toughness Submitted by Dr. Natascha Wesch, PhD The majority of athletes with whom I work come to see me with a variation of the following concern: “I need to get mentally tough because I get nervous and anxious when I play.” Mental toughness comes down to being able to remain focused in the ‘here and now,’ and to be able to perform optimally even in the face of distractions and tough circumstances.

This is where mindfulness comes in.

I know what you’re thinking: “Mindfulness is that fluffy meditation stuff that requires you to sit and think of nothing for hours.” Yes, and no; mostly no. Mindfulness is the skill of being able to focus on the present moment – the ‘here and now’ – which is a vital part of peak performance in sport.

As an athlete, you need to find the balance point between Natascha Wesch being pumped up

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enough to compete yet composed enough to focus and make good decisions. That requires being present and being able to let go of distractions.

Here’s an abbreviated version of how mindfulness training works: 1. Use an anchor, such as your breath, to allow you to focus in on the present moment.

2. Recognize that your thoughts about the past or the future are distractions that take you away from the present moment.

3. Know that you can address your distracting thoughts at a later time, so you don’t need to hook into them now.

4. Let go of those distracting thoughts that do nothing for you in the present moment and focus back on your anchor – your breath.

5. Repeat this process as many times as it takes to spend as much time as possible in the present moment.

“Natascha helped me develop the skill LondonSportsXpress

of ‘letting go’ and showed me how to be calm and focused on what I Mindfulness is a valuable skill in needed to do quieting the mind and helping to master the mental part of the game to perform in sport. at my best,” said Janika Ozen (a pseudonym). “The mindfulness exercises helped me focus on what matters most. Now I don’t get caught up in thoughts about others or the score or mistakes or anything else. I zone in on what counts.”

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

www.elitemindperformance.com

Dance is for everybody

By Richelle Hirlehey for Dance Extreme The art of dance is often portrayed as being a skill that is only pursued for a long period of time and by those who have the perfect body type and who can perfect technique and performance. It is often true that only the most passionate who possess these skills continue on to dance professionally. However, the ability to dance is within everyone, and Dance Extreme offers something for everyone and everybody.

This Fall, Dance Extreme began a new 8-week program for parents and tots aged 18-36 months to enjoy. This first ‘Move Together’ dance class experience provides the opportunity for parent/

caregiver and tot to develop a joy of movement and dance together. Students develop gross motor skills and explore dance in a creative and encouraging environment. Structured activities are balanced with the opportunity for free dance play and movement exploration.

The joy of natural movement begins early. We often witness our youngest children moving carefree and natural to the music they hear. It is wonderful if you can harness this natural creativity and love of moving. Dance Extreme's Creative Movement program is structured on that premise that children learn basic dance techniques through free movement games and activities, while we focus on building gross motor skills like running, jumping, galloping, skipping, walking and balancing.

@SportsXpressLON

When children reach the age of 5, they have the opportunity to diversify a little further with our Movers and Shakers and Tumblers Programs. These programs offer more skilled instruction in Ballet & Jazz (in Movers & Shakers) and Acro and Jazz (in Tumblers).

As children grow older and wish to take more classes, they are able try different disciplines and diversify even further with their dance training. The info graphic on this page provides the natural progression for dance instruction at Dance Extreme. For more information, visit us online.

www.danceextreme.com

LondonSportsXpress.ca

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sports@school

Mustangs return to the hardcourt Submitted by Western Mustangs As the cold air approaches, Western’s basketball teams prepare for their upcoming season that kicks off in November. Both teams saw playoff action last season, making it to the first round of the OUA playoffs before both being eliminated.

Brad Campbell, head coach for the men’s team, returns for his 10th season with hopes of improving on last year’s 12-9 record. The team’s five new rookies will undoubtedly change the team’s dynamic as they work towards their goal of getting past the preliminary round in this year’s playoffs.

Returning for another year in the purple and white, team captain and OUA West

First Team All-Star Greg Morrow leads his team after averaging 21.8 points per game last season.

Other veterans include Anthony Spiridis, who will return for his fourth year, and Jedson Tavernier, who enters his second year after being named to the OUA All-Rookie team last season.

Eric McDonald returns to the lineup for the first time since playing in the 2013-14 season when he averaged 10.5 points per game.

Peter Scholtes may be a new addition to the roster from last year, but he’s definitely a familiar face to Mustang fans.

Scholtes has played in 86 games in the purple and white, averaging 13 points per game, including recording his 1,000th point on January 18, 2014 against the Lakehead Thunderwolves.

Tom Filgiano returns for his second year with the Mustangs after his transfer from Acadia prior to last season. He joins Morrow on the top of the de-

“As the cold air approaches, Western’s basketball teams prepare for their upcoming season that kicks off in November.”

OUA All-Rookie team member Maddy Horst returns for her second season in the purple and white.

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fensive leaderboard with 5.2 rebounds per game. Joining the returning veterans are five talented new recruits: Bronson Fridal, Ian Smart, Chris Fitzgerald, Alex Otzyy, and Nicole Farkic.

Brian Cheng returns for another season at the helm of Western’s women’s basketball team. Welcoming four new rookies to the roster, the team prepares to improve on its 7-14 record from 2014-15.

The majority of the roster remains intact, with Maddy Horst returning for her second season in the purple and white after being named part of the OUA AllRookie team last season. Another veteran putting on the Mustang jersey once again is MacKenzie Puklicz who dominated the Western scoresheet with 13.1 points per game last year after being named to the OUA All-Rookie Team in her first season.

Victoria Heine, Jayme Muir, and Alex van Heeswyk also return for the upcoming season.

New skilled recruits determined to help the Mustangs improve on their play are Cassidy Crowe, Julia Curran, Laura Graham and Sonja Mijatovic.

www.westernmustangs.ca

Mustang Veteran Greg Morrow returns for his fifth season with the team after being named an OUA West First Team All-Star last season.

Toronto Raptors vs

Pistons Feb 28,

teamprofiles

Lightning to be exciting in ’15-‘16 Submitted by the London Lightning and photos by Kyle Montgomery The 2015/16 National Basketball League (NBL) season doesn’t get underway until after Christmas, but it’s never too early to get your hands on season tickets for the London Lightning.

The Lightning are looking to build off last season’s early exit from the playoffs and turn this season into a third league title. With a new and determined coach

Garrett Williamson returns to the London Lightning lineup for 2015/16.

Magic Mar 20

(Kyle Julius), hand-picked players with crowd. Towering Canadian centre Chad experience in pro leagues across the Posthumus has had successful stints globe, and a competitive drive, the team in the NCAA, Argentina, and the NBA is a strong contender to be the best in the Summer League with the Chicago Bulls. league. You can be a part of its success.

Meanwhile, Coach Kyle Julius is thought Season ticket holders reap the reto be one of the brightest minds in the wards of being able to see every thrilling sport when it comes to player developLightning home game. For businesses, ment; his knowledge of the game is what it’s a great way to treat your employees drew many of the players to sign with the for their hard work. You can also impress team. clients by seeing London’s premier It’s a good time to become a part of the basketball team. Otherwise, bring your largest fan base in the league. Get your family or a friend and cheer on the orgaseason tickets today and join the team nization that’s become the shining star on its quest for a third league championof the NBL. As a season ticket holder, you ship. It’s shaping up to be an electrifying will be a part of the team’s achievements season. Visit www.lightningbasketball. on and off the court. You’ll be giving back ca or call (519) 433-0634 for ticket to the community by supporting our local information. endeavours and raising awareness about www.lightningbasketball.ca a number of charitable organizations.

The team is already preparing, day in and day out, for a highly anticipated season. Fan favourite forward Garrett Williamson has returned to give the team a spark. Local talent Warren Ward will don a Lightning jersey to play in front of his hometown Dance Pack auditions were held Oct. 24-25.

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sportsfiles

Weight training and creatine Submitted by Sportmax Nutrition

Creatine promotes multi-workout recovery Restoration is critical to any effective training program. Successful athletes train hard, recover, and train hard again. Recovery rates differ between individuals. Slowly recovering athletes are prone to injury, overtraining and slow progress. Creatine monohydrate might Kevin DeLuca is the knowledgeable head of Sportmax Nutrition

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LondonSportsXpress

help the restoration process. Scientists have found that creatine supplementation blunts muscle soreness and creatine kinase – a marker of muscle damage, which promotes recovery from repeated bouts of exercise. Creatine boosts strength, power and muscle mass. It also promotes restoration for more steady training progress.

If you're finding yourself sore after workouts, creatine monohydrate might be for you.

www.sportmaxnutrition.com

Back Country 101 This clinic is intended to help outdoor enthusiasts plan, prepare and be equipped for their next adventure.

Clinics include: • Dressing for Cold weather • Snowshoe 101 • Cross Country Ski 101 • Winter Camping • Walking the Camino • NavigaEon

Bike Maintenance 101 and 201 The 101 clinic is best suited to beginners who are new to bike maintenance.

In our session you will learn • How to Fix a Flat • Basic Bike Maintenance • Accessorizing you bike

The 101 session is a perfect foundaEon for our Bike Maintenance 201 clinics that offer more in-­‐depth informaEon and advanced tuning skills.

This clinic is free and is offered every Saturday at 11am.

You must sign up at events.mec.ca

Spinning, Running and so much more

Spin Sessions

An all level indoor Spin session that incorporates 'cycling specific intervals aimed to improve your pedaling efficiency, leg speed and strength. *$10 per visit or $75 for a 10 class punch card.

Tuesdays at 7:15pm, Sundays at 8:30am*

Coming this Winter Stay tuned to events.mec.ca for the following meet ups, clinics • • • •

Snowshoe meet up at various locaEons Running clinics -­‐ Train for a 5K, 10K, ½ Marathon MEC Yoga partnered with Moksha And much more …..

Meet up Run’s An all level outdoor run meet up lead by an MEC run leader. We have road running through Gibbons park and trail running through Komoka Provincial Park. *Free. Mondays at 6pm – Road, Sundays at 8am – Trail *

Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings.

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sportsfiles

St. George’s rugby rules Submitted by St. George’s Rugby Club The 2016 season looks to be an exciting one for London St. George’s Rugby Club!

Based out of the St. George’s Society fields next to the Trails End Market, the club will look to field four senior teams and five junior teams, and again offers its successful Flag Rugby program for kids aged 6 to 12.

Both Men’s and Women’s teams are always keen to welcome new players of all experience levels! The Senior Men’s team, led by its strong core of Ontario Blues players, returns to the Marshall Championship Division; their season kicks off in early May. The Women’s side will again feature battles against perennial rivals Stoney Creek and Fergus Highland in the Niagara Rugby Union A League, with play set to begin later in May. The Girls’ under-16 and under-18 teams both placed 4th in Ontario and look to build on this strong base moving forward.

On the boys’ side, St. George’s will again

field U18, U16 and U14 teams; the boys’ also take part in tournaments during the teams compete in the NRU League beginsummer around Southwestern Ontario.

Flag Rugby is fun, fast and affordable! ning at the end of June.

Don’t hesitate to contact us for registraRugby is a great way for kids to remain tion details. active and to learn sportsmanship and respect in a supportive team environment. www.londonrugbyclub.com If your child is looking to try a fast-growing new sport, please check out our website for details on how to take advantage of this exciting opportunity.

The Flag Rugby program continues to grow rapidly (it was founded in 2012).

London St George’s offers a house league structure for kids St George's runs a Flag Rugby House League program for 6-12 year olds on aged 6 to 12, with The U18 Girls squad takes on Waterloo Friday evenings through the summer. league play on Friday County in a St. George’s match.

Contact us for more details!.

Photo by Kathy Brekelmans evenings. Players can Photo by www.gardianphotography.com

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fromthesidelines

Minor Midget Chiefs start strong Submitted by Elgin Middlesex Chiefs The Elgin Middlesex Chiefs’ Minor Midget team started their season off strong at the Toronto Titans Minor Midget tournament. The team went 3-0-1 during round robin play, allowing only two goals against! They ultimately bowed out in the quarter-finals after losing to the Vaughan Kings.

In Alliance league play, the team opened with a .500 record into midOctober. They went 2-2 at the Alliance Showcase in St. Marys from Sept.

25-27. Next up was the Wendy Dufton Tournament in London.

Coach James Kennedy says the team’s main goal is to be better than they were the day before each time they hit the ice.

They are also working at having fewer goals against. The team is working hard to achieve these goals every practice!

Chiefs’ Atom teams get a feel for the big time!

The Major Atoms started their season off with a team day trip to Kitchener for back-to-back games along with a team dinner and some mini golf!

Their next trip will take them to Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Michigan where they will be playing prior to a Detroit Red Wings game.

The Minor atoms recently took the ice at Budweiser Gardens with one of the coaches from the London Knights running the practice. This was followed by two of the team’s players going on the ice to stand on the blue line with the

starting line of the The Major Atoms take part Knights for the in a team building event national anthem.

They then remained as a team to watch and cheer on the Knights vs. the Windsor Spitfires.

www.elginmiddlesexchiefs.com

The Minor Atoms spent a day with the London Knights

The Elgin Middlesex Chiefs Minor Midget team Front Row L to R: Lucas Bain, Brendan Heffernan (Assistant Coach), Brady MacDonald, James Kennedy (Head Coach), Spencer Lapointe, Aaron Dartch (Assistant Coach), Josh Diamond. Middle Row L to R: Ty Glover, Joe Capirchio, Jack Leitch, Brayden Latimer, Myles Carlson, Jonah Zimmer, Matt Baughman, Jake Murray, Jon Sims ( assistant Coach/Trainer) Back Row L to R: Ryan Rosborough, Aiden Burns, Liam Israels, Aiden Reid, Wes Dobbin, Nick Bennett, Matt Mellick

The Elgin Middlesex Chiefs Major Atom team

LIVE. WORK. PLAY. LINE-X London

42

www.linexlondon.com Detroit Red Wings

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teamprofiles

Showing character on and off the ice

By Andrea Chisholm October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. By wearing PINK, the Bantam A - 2002 girls are showing their support of this cause.

The Atom A team participated with their moms in the Run the District, Women Run London road race at the Western Fair

District on September 27.

Fall Classic. In the Gold Medal game against Stoney Creek, regulation play and overtime ended in a 0-0 tie. A shootout ensued, which resulted in a Silver Medal for the Devilettes.

Finally, the exciting changes the The London Devilettes Bantam Juniors team A team wore PINK in support of went through Breast Cancer Awareness Month. this past offseason with a new permanent home and state of the art facilities at the London Sports Park seemed to propel the team to one of their greatest achievements to date by finishing second in the Stoney Creek University Showcase. In a 72-team tournament made up of the top teams from across North America, the London Juniors advanced to the finals, beating (for the first time ever) the Toronto Aeros as well as the Quebec champion Limoilou, before falling to the perennial U.S. powerhouse Chicago Mission. This is the furthest the team has ever progressed in this tournament!

Early Tourneys show promise

Many London Devilettes teams have already played in various tournaments, and the results have provided a good preview of what is looking to be a successful season ahead. The Novice A, PeeWee BB, PeeWee A, PeeWee AA, Bantam A-2002, and Bantam AA teams all finished first in their pools and made it to the quarter-finals or semi-finals of their tournaments, with some games going into overtime or shootouts. The Atom AAs and Atom BBs also made it to their semi-finals.

The Bantam A-2001 team were finalists in the Oakville Harvest Classic, going 5-0 with the best goals against average in the tourLondon Devilettes Bantam A 2001 team - Oakville Harvest nament before losing a hard fought Classic Finalists. game against Stoney Creek in the championship game.

The Bantam A-2002 team won the Ancaster Fall Shootout.

The Midget A team were finalists in the Oshawa Girls London Devilettes Midget A team won silver in the Oshawa Girls Fall Classic.

www.londondevilettes.ca

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Puckstoppers provides valuable coaching A goaltender works very hard to better their play, they attend goalie schools and work off ice in order to advance their game before the season. Hard work pays off, and the goalie makes the team!

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Puckstoppers instructor Adam Kanbar works with student Jackson Curran (foreground), while instructor Lauren Dubie directs student Payton McIntosh (background).

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PEP players gaining the edge Submitted by Power Edge Pro Hockey

McDavid Skills PAK a Success This season, Power Edge Pro™ offered a one of a kind training package to minor hockey teams, which included the patented McDavid Dangler, as well as 10 on-ice training sessions. Teams from across Canada took advantage of this offer, and kids at all ages and levels are now ‘Training Like Connor.’ Those kids training with PEP this season will definitely have the advantage over their competition! With over 50 Certified Instructors across Canada, PEP is leading the way in ‘Small Area Resistance Training.’ This past summer, over 30 National Hockey League players trained with Power Edge Pro™ and loved every minute of it.

Atom AA White team, as well as the London Junior Knights Minor Peewee AA Green team, have both won tournaments already this season. The Atom

ers and coaches on their early achievements this season!

Power Edge Pro Spring Hockey 2016 The 2016 spring hockey season will be approaching fast, and Power Edge Pro™ will be running teams for the 2003-2009 age groups for kids in the London area. Unlike many other spring teams that lack any sort of development program, our spring program is all about DEVELOPMENT. Our players leave our spring program much better than when they started, and most importantly they HAVE FUN! If you are interested in coaching and/or having your child play for Power Edge Pro this spring, please contact Steven DuBarry at: steven@ poweredgepro.com.

“Teams from across Canada took advantage of this offer, and kids at all ages and levels are now ‘Training Like Connor.’ Those kids training with PEP this season will definitely have the advantage over their competition!”

Congrats to London Jr. Knights teams The London Junior Knights Minor

AA team recently won the ‘Kawartha Lakes Tournament,’ beating teams from Oshawa, Pickering, Port Perry and Oakville. The Peewee AA team recently won the Rumble on the Rink Tournament in Fraser, Michigan where they faced some stiff competition from teams from Michigan, Cleveland and Chicago. Both of these teams are training with the McDavid Skills PAK, and Power Edge Pro™ would like to congratulate all play-

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sportsfiles

On, off-ice training a balancing act Submitted by Twist London Gym Studies and Twist Athlete results continue to prove that dry-land conditioning is just as important to on-ice perfor-

mance as those on-ice practices are. The challenge is finding the right balance!

We hear from coaches and players that their team schedule doesn’t allow time for dry-land conditioning due to practive and game times.

But we say it’s not about what you have time for, it’s what you make time for.

Dry-land conditioning develops physical attributes that cannot be achieved on skates alone; power, agility, speed, strength, balance, rotary power, Twist Athletes - London Junior Knights Midget AA White Team Names: Coach Rob Coutts, Jason Poulin, Matthew Poulin, Dylan Ford, Tyler Stevens, explosive strength Conor Egan, Drew Moir, Aidan Tisdale, Tyler Branco, Andrew Choma, and quickness, Clayton Tustanoff, Riley Coome, Mike Stanton, William Johnston, Adam Priamo, quick multi-direcRyan Konopka, Brock Trichilo, Brandon Oliver, Zachary McCosh

Hawks harnessing talent

tional change, fast footwork, reactivity ... and learning about full body integration to put it all together on the ice.

Experienced coaching, error detection and correction on dry-land will ensure that athletes are not perfecting imperfections on the ice. Making minor adjustments to body mechanics and movements is the key to helping an athlete become faster, stronger, and more agile.

Bodies that work are built in the gym so that you can be your best when your best is needed on the ice.

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

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By SportsXpress Team The season is young, but the Bluewater Hawks Bantam B girls hockey team is off to a quick start. Heading into late October, the squad owned a record of 10-4-3, and had also recently won the

Ancaster Fall Shootout tournament in impressive fashion.

As the team still gets to know each other, head coach Corbin Morton says their focus is working on positioning, skating and passing fundamentals.

So far, the team’s strengths have been team defense and high effort play. Those qualities were certainly on display when the Hawks came home with a gold medal from the Ancaster Fall Shootout.

After opening the tournament with a 3-2 shootout loss to the host Ancaster Avalanche, the Hawks not only went undefeated over their next four contests, but they didn’t allow a single goal from that point on. Wins over Kincardine (2-0), Rochester In late October, the Bluewater Hawks Bantam B girls hockey team (2-0), and Orillia (1-0) set up won the Ancaster Fall Shootout tournament, beating Kincardine a final between London and 1-0 in the final.

46

LondonSportsXpress.ca

LondonSportsXpress

Kincardine, which the Hawks won 1-0.

“It was a total team effort with unbelievable defense, strong back checking and great goaltending,” said Morton.

“The coaching staff could not be more proud of the team.”

Morton, who has spent three seasons coaching the Hawks (one as an assistant and two as head coach) says the team has an ambitious goal of winning a provincial championship this season. And they’re going to have a lot of fun doing it. Following the Ancaster tournament, one player blurted out to her teammates that the Hawks are the best team she’s ever played on, and that she’d never won anything before.

“That made me happy that we could give that to her and some of the other girls who had been on struggling teams in the past,” said Morton. “Winning is fun, and we want to keep it going!”

www.bluewaterhawks.com

BHi scores with siblings

By SportsXpress Team The Wagter-Barnum family’s involvement in Ball Hockey International (BHi) began with a simple conversation with their neighbours, who had a child enrolled in BHi. They had good things to say about the organization, and so Mark and Laurie took the idea to their kids, Gavin and Kierin. Before they knew it, the WagterBarnum family was heading down to the rink for some exciting ball hockey action.

That was in the spring of 2014, and the siblings have already played a combined six seasons of BHi ball hockey.

“I like playing hockey because it makes me feel more active, and it’s better than sitting on the couch just playing video games,” says Kierin, 11, who has shown quite the knack for playing defense. “I’ve also made some good friends along the way.”

Gavin and Kierin, brother and sister, have enjoyed playing with Ball Hockey International since the Spring of 2014.

“I like playing at the rink because it makes me feel really great to get a goal, and I like working together as a team and winning,” says 11-year-old Gavin, who, like his sister, experienced his first league hockey action when he started BHi. “I like being active, and I guess playing ball hockey just makes me feel good.”

All-around, BHi ball hockey has been a positive experience for the WagterBarnum family.

“We knew they could benefit from a structured league environment where they could learn and improve skills, feel a sense of belonging and teamwork and also get a good workout and get off the couch,” said Mark and Laurie.

They’ve certainly received all that and more through BHi, and the parents are glad they made the decision to enroll their kids.

“It’s clear that everyone associated with BHi London loves being there, and they are well organized. Every coach they've had in six seasons have been ‘stand-up’ people. They are always encouraging the kids with positive feedback and reinforcing good sportsmanship and team play.”

So what have been the kids’ highlights of playing in the league so far?

“My favourite moment was in my second season with the ‘Blue Dynomites,’” said Kierin. “I scored a goal against the goalie that no one could score on from the blue line, and it barely passed his pads and went in! That was cool because I always play defence so I don't usually get up towards the goalie.”

“So far the best moment for me was scoring a hat-trick in my second season playing in the 7-to-9 league,” said Gavin.

“So far it's the only hat-trick I got. The 10to-15 age league is a lot harder and faster, but I've had some good chances to score so we'll see! I'm hoping to score a hat-trick this season.”

Winter Season registration still available. Call 519-455-2255 to join.

london.ballhockeyinternational.ca @SportsXpressLON

LondonSportsXpress.ca

47

sportsfiles

PHD preparing players for tomorrow Submitted by Progressive Hockey Development (PHD) The Hockey season is in full swing and Progressive Hockey Development (PHD) continues to grow!

Elgin Sharks Spring Hockey PHD is pleased to announce the return of the Elgin Sharks AAA/AA Spring Hockey Program for a third year. Last year, the program grew from four teams to 13.

Each team gets 10 on-ice sessions with Mike Ellis, Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Marlies Skills and Development Coach and PHD Founder/Head Instructor, as well as a personalized Elgin Sharks Jersey and team swag. For more information, visit progressivehd.com.

Progressive Goalie Development PHD is pleased to announce Progressive Goalie Development with Head Instructor

Paul Gibson. Gibson, currently the St. Thomas Jr. B Stars’ General Manager and a former CIS and Jr. B Goalie, has worked many Goalie Instructional Camps with PHD. Watch progressivehd.com for more information.

www.progresivehd.com

Stafford joins PHD full time PHD is pleased to announce the return of Scott Stafford as a Senior Instructor.

Stafford has played professionally in Europe, was an Allan Cup Champion in 2014 with the Dundas Real McCoys, and has won five World Championships with the Canadian Amputee Hockey program.

PHD, STMHA partnership off to great start Prior to the current hockey season, PHD and the St. Thomas Minor Hockey Association began a partnership geared towards helping develop players’ skating and skills through a series of on-ice sessions that focus on using many of the same skating techniques that are being taught to PHD's professional clients. In addition to developing the players, PHD

Scott Stafford, who has played professionally in Europe, has returned to PHD as a Senior Instructor.

48

also works with the coaches to help develop their own coaching techniques and philosophies.

Mike Ellis working with the Marlies

Paul Gibson, the St. Thomas Jr. B Stars’ General Manager and former CIS and Jr. B goalie, has been named head instructor of Progressive Goalie Development.

Detroit Red Wings

vs Oilers Nov 27,

Canadiens Dec 10,

teamprofiles

The other goal…

By Jim Van Horne and photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images If there was one goal that defined the Knights’ season in 2014-15, it had to be Max Domi’s classic chip over a charging Taylor Dupuis of the Sarnia Sting.

But if there was a goal that kick started the Knights’ next era, it had to be Victor Mete’s wraparound goal on Easter Sunday against the Kitchener Rangers.

That future is full of speed and skill.

The Knights were carrying the play to the Rangers in the second period of game six on April 5. The game was scoreless until Mete worked his magic. He held the puck along the boards in the offensive zone, eluding several Rangers as he worked his way behind the net and slid a

“If there was a goal that kick started the Knights’ next era,

ing,” said Stubbs. “When you see that, you just want to stop and watch.”

The goal was a triumph of speed and skill over size. Mete held the puck for what seemed like forever with some huge Ranger players chasing him.

“No one was really on me, so I just kept circling,” remembers Mete.

“I got to the side board and no one was on me again. I was looking for someone to pass to, but no one was open so I just crashed the net.”

Mete’s goal put the Knights up 1-0 and they were never threatened after that. They went on to shut out the Rangers and win the series in six games. The playoff win was perfect training for the future – a future full Victor Mete’s wraparound goal against the Kitchener of speed and skill.

Rangers on Easter Sunday was a sign of things to come for the Knights as they transition to speed and skill play in 2015-16.

www.londonknights.com

it had to be Victor Mete’s wraparound goal on Easter Sunday against the

Hockey for the

Kitchener Rangers.

Physically Disabled

That future is full of

London Blizzard Sledge Hockey Club

speed and skill.” wraparound past Jake Paterson.

“On the bench you could feel the air come out of the building,” said Knights forward Drake Rymsha. “He’s been doing that since he was 8 years old, and I knew it was only a matter of time before he’d do it here. I think he’s one of the best defensemen in the league.”

Mike Stubbs, the Knights’ outstanding play-by-play voice, found it hard not to be a fan.

“I had to remind myself to keep talk-

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sportsfiles

Calendar of Events Expansion a success NovSteve 8 By Nancekivell

The Classic Championship (running), Western Sports Centre our 26th The Fair 2014 season,

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To promote your event contact London@SportsXpress.ca

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London Devilettes Girls Hockey

Tournament, the Western Fair Sports Centre Nov Nov 21 saw5the continued resurgence of London Bantam Blue (U16) began their Jan 8-10 Feb 6 United Way Stair Climb, Sports Day in Canada, Lightning Fastball. It was anotherVarious majorlocations inaugural season withWoodstock a bang, Wildcats win- Tournament, Hockey Day in Canada, One London Place expansion year, with Lightning Fastball ning five of six games at the season Southwood & Civic Arenas Kamloops Nov 5 Dec 4-6 addingSports another theDan Pullham opening tournament and Junior/Intermediate Jan continued 8-10 Feb 12-14 team coached by Bill London Hall oftwo Fameteams Inductionto bring LMHA Memorial, Bantam Blue (U16) did aAeros lot ofHouse winning in 2014, including total number of girl’s competitive Western fastball their winning ways for 38th most of the Jayden Elmore HL Tournament, Oakridge League Classic, Ceremony, Fair Sports Centre a 3rd place finish at the Port Perry tournament Western Fair Sports Centre Various arenas Carousel Room teams to six. year, earning a third-place finish at the Dec 4-6 NovNovice 6-8 Blue (U14), in their second Jan 9, Feb 20, March 26 Feb 19-21 12th Annual London Boys PortRamblers Perry tournament in June.

London Lynx Ringette Tournament, Forest City Derby Girls in action, London Boat, Fishing and Leisure Show, Basketball Tournament, season and led by head coach Chris Bantam Red (U16), led by head Sword. Having played in the Tri-County Western Fair Sports Centre Western Fair Agriplex Western Fair District Various locations Askew, entered three tournaments. The coach Tim Burden, competed in four league, theFeb ladies Nov 13-15 Dec 6 Jan 15-16 19-21had a fun and successgirls always played hard and earned tournaments, including Canton, London Junior Knights Green & White Santathe Shuffle Walk/Run, Sr.one Boysin High School Roundballful first season.

23rd Annual Barry Hall Girls Classic Tournament, Western Fair Michigan. The team won Basketball Tournament, (Basketball) U15 & U19, would like respect of the top teams. bronze in the 'A' London Lightning Fastball Western Fair Sports Centre Fanshawe locations “I'm very proud of the hard work my8-9 division at a tournament in Barrie in June, to thank allVarious Dec of our head coaches, asNov 14 displayed this year,” Coach Jan 15-17 Qualifiers Feb 27-28 The Lady Crusader H.S.silver Hockeyat the Provincial players andGirls won sistant coaches, parent volunteers and, 2015 FCVC Boys E-School Tournament, L.M.H.A. Thunder Classic House League Maple Leaf Monster Jam Tour, Classic, Askew said. of course, our sponsors for their supSaunders Budweiser Gardens Various arenas in the Tier II division. Tournament (Neil Barker Memorial Tournament), Novice Red (U14), led by head coach Long-time London Lightning Fastball port and commitment throughout the Nov 14 Dec 10-12 Mar 10-13 Western Fair Sports Centre Darren picked up where lastThe Crusader Cup player, coach, Jingle BellWalz, Walk & Run for Arthritis, Boys H.S. Hockeyassociation member and Disney on Ice, 2014 season.

Open workouts/tryouts Jan 21 Falcons Springbank Park Classic, Budweiser Gardens year's team left off, winning one gold, newly-appointed Fanshawe are scheduled for early September for 37th Annual Sports Spectacular, Various arenas Nov Mar 12-13 two20-22 silvers and a bronze medal during fastball coach Catherine Arthur andinher St. Anne's Centre St. Thomassquirt (U12) ages and up, and our winter Dec 19 & 20 Midget (U18) team had a successful year North London Blue & White Hockey London Golf Show, tournament play this season.

The Novice workouts will takeFair place in the January – Jan 22-24 Mens, Womens & Co-ed Indoor Soccer Tournament, Western District Red team also accepted an opportunity moving up to the Tier I division.

They Blizzard Sledge Hockey Invitational, Tournaments, Western Fair Sports Centre March timeframe.

Check out our website Apr 14 Western Fair Sports Centre BMO Centre competed in Brantford, to head Humber College, for more details.

Nov 20-22to White Rock, B.C. to compete Harlem Globetrotters World Tour, at the Canadians in theInvitational Tier II division City tournaDec 19inJan 3 Port Huron and the Motor Jan 29-31 Fanshawe College Badminton Budweiser Gardens londonlightningfastball.com.

Scrooge Youth Soccer West London Byron Optimist AA/A & MD Tournament, early August. mentTournament, in Canton, Michigan.

The team BMO Centre Tournament, Fanshawe College finished 7th in Ontario.Various arenas Head coach and LLF President Terry This was the first year for the LLF

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