SportsXpress London Mar/Apr 2019

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Record attendance at indoor camp

MARCH/APRIL 2019 London & Area Edition

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Submitted by London Minor Football Association The 2019 season is shaping up to be another busy year for the London Minor Football Association (LMFA). But while the fall season is still a few months away, offseason programs – open to everyone – continue to provide opportunities for youngsters to improve their skills.

Every Friday night this winter at Centrefield Sports in London, well over 100 girls and boys have been having fun and getting better at the LMFA Indoor Skills Camp.

This non-contact camp was the first football skills camp to be introduced in London, and it’s now in its seventh year.

The camp has gotten bigger and better every year, and this year's attendance is the best it’s ever been.

Players take the field for 90 minutes of drills and skills, including agility, footwork, ball handling, and introductions to blocking and tackling. With an emphasis on having fun and teaching fundamentals, the camp is great for new players – and, of course, returning players looking to stay active.

This summer, LMFA will host the 2nd annual Quarterback passing camp for aspiring QBs and receivers. Meanwhile, a brand-new lineman camp will

London

also start up, both at Centrefield Sports.

Looking ahead, registration for the fall house league season is open online for everyone aged 7 to 13.

Please visit www.lmfafootball.ca (or call 519-852-4465) for more information.

football............................................ pg 2 fitness.............................................. pg 6 baseball.................................... pgs 7–11 soccer..................................... pgs 13–17 volleyball....................................... pg 19 karate.....................................pgs 21–23 aquatics................................. pgs 24–25 lacrosse......................................... pg 27 rugby............................................. pg 28 golf.........................................pgs 29–31 gymnastics..............................pgs 32–35 cheerleading...........................pgs 36–37 dance..................................... pgs 39–40 basketball.............................. pgs 44–45 hockey....................................pgs 45–57

www.lmfafootball.ca

Special thanks to the London Knights for the cover photo.

BEST. GIFT. EVER!

Join one of our upcoming Toronto Blue Jays, Detroit Tigers, Buffalo Bills, Detroit Lions Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs road trips.

Road trip details available at At LMFA’s Indoor Skills Camp, more than 100 boys and girls have been improving their skills – and having a lot of fun – during this year’s football offseason at Centrefield Sports

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®

A Ninja first!

Network

OBSTACLES

commit. train. conquer.

Submitted by CTC Obstacles They made it official the weekend of February 2-3. Since becoming a member of the Competitive National Ninja League earlier in the year, CTC Obstacles held its second recreational competition to get the ball rolling!

And what a weekend it was. The competition featured both short and long courses for various age groups. Across the board, CTC Obstacles welcomed numerous competitors for the first Ninja event, including some competitors from other gyms in Ontario (what a great way to meet new ninjas!). Some fantastic times were achieved, and all involved had a great time.

Winners included: • Ages 6 to 8: Evan, ‘The Young Warrior Ninja’ (Short Course); Ben, ‘The Chess Ninja’ (Long Course) • Ages 9-10: Gavin, ‘The JuiJitsu Ninja’ (both Short and Long Course) • Ages 11-12: Luke, ‘The Boss Ninja’ (Short Course); Cian, ‘The Ninja Ninja’ (Long Course) • Ages 18 & up: Ryan Rigby, ‘The Bearded Ninja’ (both Short and Long Course) • Ages 40 & up: Jeff Boris, ‘Off Road Ninja’ (both Short and Long Course) Shortly after the event, CTC Obstacles took to Facebook to proclaim the event a resounding success: “WOW!! What a weekend!! Everyone did so well!! We had kids and adults blow past their expectations and conquer obstacles they didn't know they could!! … We had great parents and fans cheering on the competitors!!

Thank you for coming out to support them!!”

parkour, warped walls, and American Ninja Warrior activities. Cost is $210 for the week, $55 for a one full day or $245 for a 5-day pass (which can be used any 5 days).

The camp will be filled with open play time, and instructors will work with young athletes on goal-setting in addition to providing ninja, gymnastics, and parkour training (there’s even a bit of boxing and muay thai training as well!). Campers will also have the opportunity to participate in time trials, workouts and course designs.

For more information about CTC Obstacles and their Summer Camps, or to register, visit www.ctcobstacles.ca, email ctcobstacles@gmail.com, or phone 226-374-8507.

www.ctcobstacles.ca

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Greg Matthison and family: Sam, Jack & Kate EDITOR WEB GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Todd Devlin Alyssa MacLeod Britt Cobean

CONTRIBUTORS Richelle Hirlehey, Donna Bayley, Roop Chanderdat, Chris Baker, Steve Boyle, Mike Worby, Carolyne Roy, Haley Tice, Connor Loucks, Fraser Weir, The Little Gym of London, Eager Beaver Baseball Association, Centrefield Sports, Forest City Volleyball Club, Athletic Fluency, NorWest Soccer, Snipe Academy, London Devilettes, Pro Function Sports Injury Clinic, Academy Garrincha, Lexus of London, Dance Steps, Millars Law, Preferred Insurance, LDBA Baseball, London Gymnastics Academy, GOT GAME Sports, CTC Obstacles, Southwest London Scorpions, London Football Academy, London Senior Games, 3on3Tourneys, London Lightning, London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby, Elgin Middlesex Chiefs, Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic, Forest City Diving Club, London Minor Lacrosse Association, Performance Golf London, Forest City Gymnastics Club, City of London Municipal Golf, Komoka Kings Hockey Club, BMO Centre, London Mens Baseball League, FC LONDON, London Minor Football Association, Family Karate, Power Cheer Gym, CheerStrike, Olympic Karate, London Aquatic Club, the SportsXpress Team and local sports enthusiasts.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS

London SportsXpress is an independently owned and operated member of the SportsXpress Network

It was a fantastic weekend of Ninja action February 2-3, as CTC Obstacles held its first-ever recreational Ninja competition. The site, which is now part of the Competitive National Ninja League, will hold its first league competition this spring.

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PUBLISHER: Greg Matthison GregM@SportsXpress.ca, 519 619 6029 London.SportsXpress.ca

Matt Hiscox Photography, XGEN Photo, Terry Wilson/OHL Images, Missy Wilson, Stacey Wanlin, Anne McDougall, Luke Durda, Christine Zanutto, Dance Extreme, Family Karate, Centrefield Sports, Preferred Insurance, Snipe Academy, London Gymnastics Academy, Forest City Gymnastics Club, GOT GAME Sports, Forest City Volleyball Club, FC LONDON, Athletic Fluency, Performance Golf London, Dance Steps, Millars Law, Eager Beaver Baseball Association, Lexus of London, London Lightning, LDBA Baseball, London Nationals, London Senior Games, West London Hawks Minor Hockey, London Devilettes, Elgin Middlesex Chiefs, Pro Function Sports Injury Clinic, London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby, 3on3Tourneys, CTC Obstacles, The Little Gym of London, Forest City Diving Club, Komoka Kings Hockey Club, London Minor Lacrosse Association, London Mens Baseball League, Olympic Karate, London Minor Football Association, CheerStrike, Power Cheer Gym, London Aquatic Club, the SportsXpress Team, various sports group photographers and community sports fans.

Summer Camp Fun CTC Obstacles is excited to offer Summer Camps this year, and there are lots of options to choose from for interested athletes. Camps are held for kids aged 6 to 14, and will feature

MARCH/APRIL 2019

Editorial Contributions: Submissions are welcome from writers, photographers, athletes, coaches and individuals. Please contact the publisher. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. Contributors are responsible for obtaining all approvals for publication of photos and content prior to submission. All submissions may not be used. We may edit, publish, reproduce, distribute and archive submissions in any form or medium without any compensation. We are not responsible for lost or damaged submissions. Contents copyrighted. All rights reserved. Reproduction or transmission of any article, photograph or artwork in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher is prohibited. London SportsXpress is published six times per year. London SportsXpress is committed to protecting your privacy as our customer. We may collect personal information only if it is required for the proper functioning of our business and only share this information with our business partners. The editors and contributors who write for London SportsXpress attempt to provide accurate and useful information and commentary. However the editors, contributors and London SportsXpress cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. We assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any readers based on the information provided.

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Athletes headed to CFL combine Submitted by Athletic Fluency Athletic Fluency will be represented by a pair of talented athletes at the Annual CFL Combine in downtown Toronto this year. These athletes include Fraser Sopik, the current USports Presidents Trophy winner (given to the best defensive player), and Hakeem Johnson, a former OUA all-star defensive back. The Regional Combine will be held on March 21, and

Former OUA all-star Hakeem Johnson

the National Combine will be held the following three days (March 22-24).

Over the past three years, Athletic Fluency’s head athletic trainer, Miguel Wason, has had 17 participants in the CFL Combine. Of these players, 11 have been CFL Draft picks (and two others have signed as free agents). Now, for the fourth year in a row, Wason will be

looking to send players to CFL training camps to pursue professional careers in football.

Fraser Sopik, last year’s Presidents Trophy winner (USports)

Athletic Fluency’s head athletic trainer, Miguel Wason.

www.athleticfluency.com

Hard work = success for Scorpions Submitted by Southwest London Scorpions and photo by Christine Zanutto The London Scorpions Girls Select program, which is part of the Southwest London Girls Fastball house league program, provides players with an op-

portunity to practice and compete at a higher level. In addition to their regular house league schedule, the Select teams compete throughout the summer in one-day weekend tournaments against teams from across the province, culminating with a Provincial Championship.

Southwest London Girls Fastball is the only Association in London to offer an opportunity to play house league Select in all age groups (Mite, Squirt, Novice, The Southwest London Scorpions Girls Midget Select team, shown here in August 2018: Back row (left to right): Mat Crossen (Coach), Madison Leblanc, Abby Thompson, Natalie Boros, Bantam and Madi Marion, Alana Ginty, Ashley Carpenter, Hayley Whyte, Sarah Boros, Kistyn Campbell, Adam Brock (Coach). Front row: Sydney Binns, Laura Fritz, Pam Kolkman, Kaitlyn Crossen, Zacora Doxtator Midget/Jr). Select

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teams enter OSSTA tournaments, which are held throughout Ontario. Southwest successfully hosted OSSTA tournaments in each Division last year, and the organization will do so once again this season.

Southwest works hard at developing players of all ages through pitching and off-season clinics and off-season workouts, and it has paid off as the London Scorpions teams won many medals at tournaments last summer. The Scorpions’ Mite team even finished as the 4th best team in the province.

To be eligible for the London Scorpions Girls Select team, a player must be registered with Southwest London Girls Fastball. If interested, players should check the website (southwestlondonbaseball.com) or email the Convenor (swgirlsfastballconvenor@gmail.com) for additional information.

southwestlondonbaseball.com

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Team Profile: Marlins on the rise Submitted by London Mens Baseball League The London Men’s Baseball League (LMBL) expanded in 2017, this time from 12 to 14 teams. Adam Webb, who played for the LMBL Blue Jays since 2011, volunteered to manage one of the new teams, the Marlins.

“I had a great time with the Jays and was sad to leave, but I was excited about the opportunity to become a player/manager,” said Webb. “I’ve met some great guys and learned a lot.”

Part of that learning experience was a grueling 0-19 first season. Difficult first seasons are common for expansion

teams, as players from different backgrounds, including slo-pitch, become familiar with the ins and outs of hardball.

The Marlins persevered, though, eventually celebrating their first win in 2018, thanks in part to improved pitching and offseason practices.

“Although we haven’t had the instant gratification of winning seasons, our team has kept a positive attitude,” said Marlins Assistant Manager, John Weibe.

“This has been largely due to a strong team bond and ability to celebrate the victories in small improvement. And there

The Marlins celebrate after their first league win: Back row (left to right): Rob Hill, Josh Wilson, John Wiebe, AJ O’Connor, Kurt Langille, Ryan Applin, Rob Campbell, Ben Van Huigenbos, Stephen Walker.

Front row: Rod Gallagher, Scott Redden, Adam Webb, Ryan Valdron, Scott Keller, Eric Bender

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is a feeling that this could be a breakout season for the Marlins.”

The Marlins have lost three players for the upcoming season but have added two strong free agent picks. They plan to round out their roster with another player in the next draft.

“We’re playing better in every facet,” says Webb. “We’re hanging around and battling in the majority of our games now. I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can do in 2019.”

www.lmblbaseball.ca

The LMBL’s Marlins enjoy time together off the field

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Countdown to Opening Day...

Contributions by Roop Chanderdat and photos by Matt Hiscox Photography Hope springs eternal, and the London Majors will embark on their 2019 season with hopes of winning the Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) championship – something the franchise hasn’t done since 1975. Will they win that elusive title this year? That will be up to the performance of a mixture of new and returning faces – as well as long-time manager, Roop Chanderdat.

The Majors have been successful recruiters of international talent over the last several years, and this past offseason was no different, as the team added some solid import players once again – including a trio of players from Venezuela. Luis Sayol, a catcher and third baseman, Luis Ramirez, a lefthanded pitcher, and Kender Villegas, a righty-handed arm, will all join the Majors this summer looking to help the club win an IBL championship.

When the boys of summer take the field at historic Labatt Park this year,

they’ll do so with several familiar faces, including long-time fan favourite Cleveland Brownlee, who will return for another year in the pinstripes. Last season, the DH/1B hit had a resurgent season, batting an impressive .324 with a team-best 12 home runs and 46 RBIs while playing all 36 regular season games.

Outfielder Byron Reichstein is also back, fresh off a 2018 season in which he hit .308 with 37 RBIs and a teambest 33 runs scored. Catcher/INF Mike Ambrose (.279, 26 RBIs) returns, as does OF/LHP Robert Doyle and Utilityman Even Britt. On the mound, right-hander Braeden Ferrington is back, joining RHP Owen Boon and LHP Marcus McEachran.

Among the new additions to the team is an exciting slugger, 1B/OF Josh Williams, who hit .333 with 6 home runs, 13 doubles and 30 RBIs in 37 games with the White Sands Pupfish of the Pecos League last summer. Other

new faces include: LHP/1B/OF Ismael Pena, C Jonathan Thibodeau, Utilityman Jonathan DuForest, RHP Sean HoodTidman, RHP Matt Balkwill, and INF Steve Froese.

Chanderdat, the club’s GM and field manager, will guide the ship once again, as he has since 2006. The Majors’ winningest manager in franchise history (a record he broke in 2017), Chanderdat is closing in on an impressive 300 wins (he’ll enter the season with a 287-187 record).

Labatt Park will host plenty of great Intercounty baseball action this summer, but some key dates for fans will include a few long-time favourites. The home opener is set for Friday, May 10, the annual ‘Pack The Park’ contest is Sunday, June 16 (Fathers Day), and the Majors will once again play on Canada Day, July 1, where fans can stick around for a fireworks show.

www.londonmajors.com

The London Majors will have several key returning players for the 2019 season, as well as some new faces as they seek to win their first Intercounty Baseball League championship since 1975.

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Teeing up the tournament action Submitted by LDBA Baseball Although the 2019 season is still several weeks away, planning is well underway for teams to get ready to take the field in early May. Some teams, in fact, have already been selected for rep programs, while others are getting tryouts started, and certainly house league registrations continue for the next several months. One thing for sure is that several organizations are once again planning for the summer tournament season.

London and District local associations are busy putting plans in place for another busy tournament season this summer. Some of the largest tournaments in the province are hosted in around the London area.

The 13th Annual Cardinal Classic will kick off the tournament events in St. Thomas. The weekend of May 24-26 will feature tournaments for the minor rookie, minor mosquito, major mosquito, and minor bantam levels, while the second weekend, May 31 to June 2, tournaments will be hosted at the major rookie, minor peewee, major peewee, and major bantam levels.

More than 130 teams take part in the Cardinal Classic tournament, which is held at the Doug Tarry Complex (five diamonds), New York Central Ball Field, Emslie Field and Cardinal Field. The tournament is certainly a big draw for teams looking to take advantage of early-season play – for team-building as well as some great early competition.

Meanwhile, St. Thomas will also be hosting a 12-team midget tournament July 5-7 and will also play host to the Baseball Ontario 13U Elimination Tournament during the Civic Holiday

weekend to determine the team that will represent the province at the 13U National Championship held in August in Quebec.

In London, tournament kicks off with the Trevor Barton Memorial London Badgers tournament. Again, more than 100 teams will arrive in the city the weekends of June 7-9 and June 14-16.

Games will be played at 12 fields in the city to support the 14 divisions of play offered over the two weekends, with headquarters at Stronach Park. The Barton tournament has grown from only a AAA tournament a few years ago, to now hosting A and below divisions in addition to AA/AAA divisions.

Gaining momentum is the 4th annual London Tecumseh Baseball tournament held July 12-14 and July 19 to 21.

This tournament, which has also grown significantly in the last couple of years (45 to 100 teams and two weekends), will host a AA division this year for the first time.

Also in July, the London West Tincaps/ Oakridge Optimist will host two longstanding tournaments. The Bob Stark Rookie Ball tournament (July 5-7) plays host to Minor Rookie and Major Rookie teams from across the province.

Following that, minor and major mosquito is hosted July 19-21. The Oakridge arena diamonds are a fantastic venue for families with the playground and swimming pool on site.

Not to be outdone, the Dorchester Diamondbacks are hosting several tournaments in 2019. The Summerslam series of tournaments offers B and below competition June 14-16 in rookie, minor mosquito, and mosquito divisions, fol-

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

lowed by minor and major peewee July 21-23.

LDBA President Derek Brooks says the London area is becoming a destination for tournaments.

“Teams love coming to the region for tournaments, with our tremendous facilities and the fact that they are all in close proximity to one another,” says Brooks. “Not to mention, we have topnotch affordable hotels that make this a natural choice for teams to flock to these events.”

Brooks also commends tournament organizers for the success of so many different tournaments.

“We estimate that over 5,000 players will play games in the London and District tournaments this year, and the work that our local association volunteers do to make these tournaments possible is second to none.”

To cap off the 2019 season, the London Badgers organization will once again host the 2019 18U Baseball Canada National Championship at Labatt Park, Dan Pulham Memorial Field, and Norm Aldridge Field from August 15-18.

www.ldbabaseball.ca

The 2019 summer season is set to be packed with baseball tournaments in London and the surrounding area

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Youngsters eager to hit the diamonds Submitted by Eager Beaver Baseball Association They’re a hit for young ballplayers – especially ones who can’t bear the lengthy winter without getting some baseball action. The Eager Beaver Baseball Association (EBBA) has been busy offering indoor pre-season clinics since early January, and young ballplayers have had the opportunity to continue working on their skills – even in the coldest weather.

The clinics, which run weekly (for different age groups) from January to April

at school gyms, provide players with the opportunity to work on their fundamentals and prepare for the next summer season, practices could start in early May. The clinics are run by the league’s division convenors, with the help of coaches within the organization.

EBBA is looking forward to its 65th season of providing a quality baseball program to players of all ages. Nearly all board members are back for another fun year of baseball, which says a lot about

While the weather outside was frigid in January and February, young EBBA ballplayers still managed to work on their skills – indoors at pre-season clinics.

Baker plays and podcasts

EBBA REGISTRATION • Online registration is open until March 31 • Final in-person registration is March 23 (10am - 2pm) at 652 Elizabeth St.

the quality of EBBA as an organization.

From Little Sluggers (born 2014 & 2015) through to Juniors (born 19982000) and adults (coaching, umpiring and many volunteer activities), EBBA offers everyone a league to develop baseball skills – and life skills, too. Teamwork and mentoring are cultivated, along with throwing, catching and batting.

Mornington Park is the home park for the Little Sluggers, TBall, Rookie and Mosquito divisions, while PeeWees also play home games there. Bantams, Midgets and Juniors play out of Kiwanis Park. Away games are hosted by various leagues around the city and neighbouring communities.

www.ebba.ca

Proudly Sponsored by

Community contribution Dylan Baker, 13, has always had a passion for baseball. In addition to his passion for playing the game with the London Tecumsehs competitive baseball organization, he has always had a desire to learn the game inside and out.

From player stats, to game knowledge, to the rules and traditions of the game, Dylan has spent the bulk of his 13 years around the game of baseball.

Now, he has translated that passion to a new podcast he hosts along side his Dad, Chris, called ‘2Elevens Baseball Talk.’ Where does the name come from?

Dylan, his Dad, and his brother, Aaron, were all born on the 11th of their respective birth months (and Dylan dons a #11 jersey when he takes the field).

2Elevens Baseball Talk can be found

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on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Anchor and more. Averaging 100+ listeners per week and rapidly growing, Dylan has managed to secure major guests, including most recently Toronto Blue Jays playby-play man Mike Wilner, Casey Stern of MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM, and Scott Crawford of the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame.

Dylan offers a unique Generation Z take on the game of baseball, and he hopes to continue to rapidly grow the podcast for years to come!

Local London Tecumsehs ballplayer Dylan Baker carries his passion for baseball away from the diamond as well, hosting a podcast with his Dad called 2Elevens Baseball Talk.

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Success begins with pre-season prep Submitted by Centrefield Sports As the countdown to spring continues, Centrefield Sports is abuzz with excitement and opportunities for you to get out on the field without having to brave the winter weather outdoors.

Offering a chance for you and your team to get ready for the diamond (or the pitch, the oval, the gridiron and more), the facility welcomes new athletes and familiar faces ahead of the summer months. Call or email ahead to make reservations and secure your spots on the field and in the batting cages as the building continues to get busier.

Just before the seasons swap, Centrefield will play host to its annual March Break camp for young players looking to get better, play some ball, or just enjoy their time away from school. This year’s five-day camp is hosted by an impressive group of former professional baseball players, with Olympic, major league, and minor league experience, excited to share their passion for the game of baseball.

The beginning of spring also marks the start of new rookie and mosquito leagues, to help players get a head start before they take on the competition this summer.

Don’t forget to sign up early, as space is limited and you won’t want to miss out on this fun four-week opportunity to play!

On April 28, the facility is excited to host its thirdannual garage sale, with plenty of new and used items up for grabs, including baseball bats, balls, screens and other equipment. Be sure to mark the date in your calendar so you don’t miss out!

www.centrefieldsports.com

Centrefield Sports is the place to be during the winter months for athletes looking to stay in shape and continue to improve their skills in the offseason. That includes baseball players, who are offered a March Break camp at the facility with talented instructors.

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Academy expanding in ‘19 Submitted by FC LONDON The 2019 season is well underway, with 14+ teams already training, strategizing and preparing for a banner year.

With teams from U8 to U17 participating in the premier Ontario Academy Soccer League and in OPDL (the top academy programs in the province), players will be travelling across Ontario this season to compete against the top players in the province.

“In order to continue to go as a player, it’s important to play against the best … and that’s what OASL and OPDL are all about,” says Paulo Sousa, London TFC Academy’s youth director. “And our coaches are training as hard as our players.”

Proof of this fact was on display in February when London TFC Academy coaches participated in a two-day in-

tense training session with coaches from Toronto FC. These ‘coaching the coach’ sessions focused on tactics and training to optimize both on-field and off-field preparation – for both the practices and game days.

League1 head coach Michael Marcoccia has been finalizing rosters for the upcoming season for FC LONDON’s flagship men’s and women’s teams, both of which won their respective league titles in 2018.

“Between the guidance of Paulo in our Academy program and the training our coaches are receiving from the Toronto FC professional club, we’re truly working hard at preparing players for a professional pathway ahead,” says Marcoccia.

As far as professional opportunities go, FC LONDON’s own Jade Kovacevic

has found footing in Rome, playing this winter with the Roma women’s program.

This professional contract is an example of how player experience within the FC LONDON program can truly transcend to the next level.

“From our professional team partnership with 2017 MLS Champion Toronto FC, through to our local partnerships with Strathroy United SC, St. Thomas FC and Lambeth Soccer Club, it’s an exciting time for FC LONDON,” says club CEO Ian Campbell. “We’re always looking for ways to create opportunities for players, and we seem to be on the right track to find that right formula to make it a winwin for everyone.”

Keep track of all FC LONDON news at www.FCLONDON.ca

www.fclondon.ca

Coaches participate in training from TFC Academy

A trip down memory lane

By SportsXpress Team At a recent training session, José Figueiredo (Garrincha) caught up with a special group of players (b. 2002) that he coached for many years in London. These players (now U17), who worked with the coach on technical skills while playing for Academy Garrincha (AG), have since moved on as they pursue their respective soccer careers. Garrincha remembers them well.

Eleias Himaras, for instance, who is currently at TFC in Toronto.

“He was a goalkeeper with great

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potential,” Garrincha recalls. “He has a strong presence and very good technical qualities and distribution, and he’s very comfortable playing out of the back. In fact, he even started and scored for AG several times as a winger in competitive league games!”

Tomas Ribeiro is now out west, playing for the Vancouver Whitecaps – and for the Canadian national team.

“He’s a very gifted athlete with a phenomenal left foot, great vision, and very good pass completion at all distances,”

Garrincha says. “He can play all the positions on central midfield. I recall challenging Tomas very often – to the point of frustration. Otherwise, it would have been too easy and comfortable for him!”

Dino Hardarpasic is also playing for the Whitecaps in Vancouver, alongside former AG teammate Ribeiro. Garrincha recalls Dino as one of a trio of athletic siblings.

“He possesses superior technical qualities for such an imposing central defender,” the coach says. “I recall that

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NorWest Optimist Soccer Club of London - est. 1979 Celebrating 40 years as your Grassroots Community Program in 2019 Stage of Development

Year of Birth

Division

Training Days

Match Days

Register before February

Register in February or Mach

Active Start 1 on 1 (Parent Assisted)

2016 2015

U3 U4

Sat. 9:30AM Sat. 9:30AM

-

$75

$100

Active Start 3 vs 3

2014 2013

U5 U5B & U6G

Sat. 10:30AM Sat. 10:30AM

Wed. 6:00PM

$125

$150

2012

U7B U7G

Tues. 6:00PM Mon. 6:00PM

Thurs. 6:00PM Wed. 6:00PM

U8B U8G

Tues. 7:00PM Mon. 7:00PM

Thurs. 7:00PM Wed. 7:00PM

$150

$175

2011 2010

U9B U9G

Tues. 6:00PM Mon. 6:00PM

Thurs. 6:00PM Wed. 6:00PM

U10B U10G

Tues. 7:15PM Mon. 7:15PM

Thurs. 7:15PM Wed. 7:15PM

$150

$175

2009 2008 2007

U11B U12B

Thurs. 6:00PM Thurs. 7:15PM

Tues. 6:00PM Tues. 7:15PM

2008 2007

U11G U12G

$150

$175

Wed. 6:30PM

Mon. 6:30PM

2005-2006

U14B U14G

Mon. 6:00PM Tues. 6:00PM

Wed. 6:00PM Thurs. 6:00PM

$150

$175

2002-2004

U17B U17G

-

Tues. 6:30-8:00PM Thurs. 6:30-8:00PM

U21M U21W

$125

-

Sun. 5:00PM Sun. 5:00PM

$100

1998-2001

*FUNdamentals 5 vs 5

*Learn 2 Train 7 vs 7

*Learn 2 Train 9 vs 9

Soccer 4 Life 11 vs 11 Soccer 4 Life 7 vs 7

2019 House League play will run May 13 through August 24 Take your Summer back: There will be no House League Soccer June 29-July 6 and Aug. 3-Aug. 10 to allow for famly time around long weekends! *U7-U12 practices will run using Ontario Soccer's Prefered Training Method.

See complete program details on www.norwestsoccer.com Every effort will be made to adhere to the information here, however this information should not be considered a guarantee. These play nights and times are only relevant to House League and are subject to change based on registration.

his parents struggled with the fact that I decided to put him at defender, as they thought defenders didn’t have as much

glamour and opportunities in soccer!”

Emily (MJ) Andrus is part of the Team Canada Excel Super Centre program in Ontario, living and breathing soccer daily in Markham as she pursues her soccer goals.

“MJ is physical, and she’s mentally very strong,” Garrincha says. “She obtained a full scholarship to Michigan State University.”

The training session also included youngSoccer coach Garrincha had the opportunity to catch up with some of his former players (b. 2002) at a recent sters (b. 2011) who training session, and the next generation of soccer talent got to learn from the talented former AG players. Back row (left to right): MJ Andrus, Max Homm, Dino Hardarpasic, Garrincha, Tomás Ribeiro, Eleias Himaras and Evan are part of the next Amaral. Front row: Djavan Defigueiredo, Ben Petruniak, Mason Kohl, Cameron Scott, Dylan Stern, Josh Kocher, generation of Academy Ethan Kirkland, Jack Matthison Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

Garrincha talent, and they had the opportunity to learn from the older players.

“It was very special to have these players back together in their hometown for a training session, as it has been a while since we were all together!” Garrincha said. “I was reminded of so many memories. It was indeed a time filled with challenges and leaps of faith with a unique group of talented players.

“We lost many games between U11-U14 as I allowed them to make mistakes and experiment. This was the price we had to pay in order to make them experience and develop the technical, tactical and mental attributes that they possess today.”

www.academygarrincha.com

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Meet & greet with Matheson 2D LOGO - BLACK.AI

Submitted by Lexus of London It was an exciting day at Toyota Town for the official launch of the all-new 2019 Toyota RAV4! The dealership did it up in style, hosting a VIP launch party complete with special guests – including a two-time Olympic medalist soccer player.

Diana Matheson of Canada’s National

Women’s Soccer Team attended the gathering for a meet and greet with all 2D LOGO WHITE.AI guests – bringing along her -two Olympic bronze medals for attendees to check out and try on.

Matheson, who also plays professionally for Utah Royals FC in the National

Sales Manager Brian Komar (left) and Product Specialist Justin Maki pose for a photo with Canadian soccer star Diana Matheson – and her two Olympic bronze medals – at a VIP launch event for the 2019 Toyota RAV4

Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), is perhaps best known for scoring the bronze medal-winning goal for Canada late in the game against France at the 2012 Olympics in London, England.

Only 100 spots were available for the exclusive event held at Toyota Town, which allowed guests to experience the luxury of the new Toyota Rav4. The event featured live music, beverages and hors d’oeuvres – served by executive chef Amanda Craddock.

Guests had the exclusive opportunity to witness the official unveiling and vehicle presentation by Product Specialist Justin Maki. The 2019 RAV4 has an expansive lineup of nine unique models, including the ultra-sporty hybrid edition set to arrive this spring.

Overall, it was a fantastic and memorable launch event. Head to ToyotaTown today to check out the all-new 2019 Toyota Rav4, built right here in Ontario!

U18’s capture Ontario Cup Submitted by London Football Academy and photo by Missy Wilson A big congratulations is in order for the London Football Academy’s 2002 Girls soccer team. They were the last team standing after a thrilling Indoor Ontario Cup weekend in February (Feb. 9-10) at the Soccer Centre in Vaughan, thus winning the U18 division of the prestigious Ontario Cup. The girls’ pathway to the Cup included a Preliminary Round win in London earlier in January, as well the five games over the course of the Final Round weekend in Vaughan.

In the final, the girls squared off against North Toronto, and the championship game was a thriller, with the score deadlocked (at 1-1) after regulation time.

The game went to penalty kicks and the match was decided in sudden death after six shooters aside. Congratulations again to the LFA Under-17’s!

www.londonfa.ca

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London Football Academy – 2002 Girls Soccer team (winners of the 2019 Indoor Ontario Cup) Front row (left to right): Gabrielle Kohut, Julia DiCarlo, Mikayla Talbot, Taylor Mitchener, Elysse Fleming, Janelle Pridoehl, Mackenzie Bilotta. Back row: Coach John Fleming, Alicia Domingues, Jennifer Milligan, Avarie Thomas, Meghan Brown, Maddy Wilson, Cassidy Wuytenburg, Lauren Mainprize, Holly Remisch.

Absent: Lily Aggelopoulos, Jenna Murray, Tanya Iwas

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Team approach to care Submitted by Pro Function Sports Injury Clinic Ever wonder if your team is moving at their best? Or if your athletes could be trained to better help avoid injuries? Or, if they’re injured, whether they are taking the right steps for a proper return to sport?

Pro Function Sports Injury Clinic, located at Centrefield Sports, works with individuals, teams and organizations to assess their athletes’ movement patterns, treat injuries, and return them back to sport. Pro Function isn’t your typical therapy clinic: our elite level, evidence-based practitioners are focused on giving athletes the tools they need to move better and recover faster.

Pro Function works alongside the Great Lake Canadians baseball organization, providing off-season Functional Movement Assessments and in-season therapy. These off-season assessments provide personalized reports for players to work on areas of strength and mobility, which help with player development. This team relationship allows practitioners to know how players move before they become injured. Being located at Centrefield Sports gives our practitioners unique access to a full gym and a large indoor turf/ training area to run sport-specific drills to ensure that the athlete is fully ready to return to play.

Pro Function practitioners have the qualifications in post-concussion management, strength and conditioning, registered physiotherapy, sports rehabili-

tation, chiropractic, functional movement screening, and deep tissue massage therapy to manage your condition.

Whether you are an individual athlete or part of a sports team, we think you deserve the same quality of medical and

training services as professional athletes. Contact our office to see how we can meet the needs of you or your team.

Visit us online at www.profunction.ca or phone 519-860-5090.

www.profunction.ca

Left to right: Dr. Jordan, Dr. Nicole, Merissa, Dr. Joseph.

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Bentley Hearing recognizes Sporting Seniors London Senior Games

Seniors and sport: A great combination Submitted by London Senior Games A busload of Londoners traveled to Huntsville in early March for the Ontario 55+ Games where they competed in 10 events, including Table Tennis, Badminton, Volleyball, 10-pin Bowling, Men’s Hockey (55+ and 65+) and Women’s 55+ Hockey.

London Senior Games (LSG) is an independent, volunteer group that organizes more than 30 local events throughout the year. District winners qualify for provincial events held biannually all over Ontario.

All Londoners 55+ are eligible to join in the fun. Our oldest participant is 89. It’s a great opportunity to meet competitors from various senior centres in London, to put your skills to the test, and to make new friends!

More information at: www.londonseniorgames.com or call Kim Benke at 519-432-0199.

Men’s & Coed Volleyball teams: Rose, Pam, Willie, Harry, Jack, Jackie, Bob, Mike, Mitch, Nancy, Brenda, Deb, June

Zak, Marianne, Sandy, Kim and Lynn after hitting the ice

Eugene & Otto: Men’s 55+ Table tennis

Kim, Beth, Jane, Kim and Diane at a recent hockey tournament

Jim & Eileen: Mixed 55+ Table Tennis

Diane Irwin in action

London Women’s 55+ Hockey

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Culture key at V-Ball Club

Submitted by Forest City Volleyball Club

Congratulations to all Forest City Volleyball Club (FCVC) athletes and coaches on a terrific display of development and competition so far during the 2018-19 season! As the dates for Provincials and Nationals inch closer, teams are working extra hard and refining their game. Our sports community will be cheering all of you on with pride as you compete for your final Ontario Championship rankings in April and National Championships in May. Forest City Volleyball Club has now been delivering competitive volleyball to our youth for 27 years! This demonstrates the exceptional level of experience, skill, and dedication to the athletes in this com-

munity, and it wouldn’t be possible without a deeply-rooted FCVC culture which resonates across our Board Members, Coaches, Athletes, Volunteers, Families and Fans. Thank you for being a part of who we are – on and off the court! Go FC!

Camp with FCVC this summer!

Take your game to the next level this summer with top FCVC Coaches at the FCVC Elite Skills Camp (July 15-18). For competitive athletes aged 14 to 18, contact Coach Lloyd Rumble at vp_volleyball@forestcityvolleyball.com. Cost is $340, and the location is at Fanshawe College.

FCVC 16U Green Girls Win Gold at 16U McGregor Cup Select

FCVC 16U Blue Girls Win Gold at 16U McGregor Cup Trillium

FCVC 14U Girls Win Silver at 14U McGregor Cup

FCVC 16U Boys Win Silver at Challenge Cup Premier

FCVC 12U Girls Win Gold at Challenge Cup

FCVC 17U Boys Win Bronze at 18U Furlani Cup

FCVC 17U Girls Win Gold at 18U Furlani Cup

FCVC 18U Boys Win Gold at 18U Furlani Cup

FCVC 13U Girls Win Silver at 14U Bugarski Cup

forestcityvolleyball.com | facebook: FCVCLondon | twitter: @go_fcvc | instagram: forestcityvolleyball Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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Nurturing the athlete and the person Submitted by Family Karate Our Family Karate Competition Team believes in helping to grow and shape children as martial artists – and as individuals – by fostering skills that they will have for the rest of their lives.

As an award-winning program with accomplished coaches, we work together to ignite and promote physical fitness and

confidence in all of our team members.

Since 1993, Family Karate has been trusted by families to educate and inspire children. As a member of our competition team, martial artists learn about dedication, hard work, being a team player, selfesteem, leadership, respect, confidence and so much more.

As martial artists grow, we help them develop the skills and traits they need to succeed in karate, at school and throughout their lives.

www.familykarate.ca CONGRATULATIONS TO THE TEAM ON THEIR FIRST EVENT OF 2019!

Alyssa: 1st Kata, 3rd Sparring Peter: 1st Sparring William: 2nd Sparring, 3rd Kata Nathan: 3rd Weapons, 3rd Kata, 3rd Sparring Collin: 2nd Kata, 1st Sparring Ian: 1st Sparring Kai: 1st Kata, 3rd Sparring Caleb: 2nd Sparring Kiera: 3rd Kata, 3rd Sparring Fahad: 1st Sparring, 1st Kata Sam: 2nd Sparring, 3rd Kata Jack: 1st Kata, 2nd Weapons, 3rd Sparring Addison: 2nd Weapons Bella: 3rd Sparring Nel: 2nd Kata Nicole: 2nd Kata, 2nd Sparring Jake: 1st Kata, 1st Sparring Adam: 3rd Kata, 3rd Weapons Natalie: 1st Kata

At Family Karate, young athletes learn and develop skills that they use in competition, at school, and in every aspect of their life!

Progress is intense.

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Karate Camp on the way!

Submitted by Olympic Karate After a long winter, Olympic Karate is happy to look forward to summer. The best part? Summer Camps! Once again, under the guidance of Stephen Donovan, the organization’s head instructor, Olympic Karate is excited to host a topnotch Summer Camp that will run in four different sessions.

The camps not only allow young students the opportunity to improve their

skills and further their progress in the sport of karate, but they’re also filled with fun activities and are a great way to get some summer exercise in a safe and social environment!

For two weeks in July (July 8-12 & July 22-26) and two weeks in August (Aug. 12-16 & Aug. 26-30), Donovan and his team of Junior instructors will deliver a fantastic camp, where students will

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spend their days learning karate and having fun. Besides regular instruction and other activities, each week will also focus on a special martial arts weapon.

Olympic Karate, at its prime location on Oxford St. W, is perfect for camps, as the location is surrounded by parks and public sports fields. This means campers will also have the opportunity to play outside and enjoy the summer sunshine.

Campers also get to enjoy a swim each day, at the Oakridge Pool, which is fullystaffed with qualified lifeguards.

Camps are open to anyone (in other words, you don’t have to be a student at Olympic Karate to enroll and enjoy the summer camp). In fact, new students are always welcome, and the organization is thrilled to teach new youngsters the art of karate – all while having a fun time!

www.olympickarate.on.ca

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Master Stephen Donovan, Olympic Karate’s head instructor, runs the show at the fun Summer Camps, where students are able to improve their skills, get healthy exercise in the summer, and have a lot of fun!

SUMMER CAMP INFO Dates: • July 8-12 • July 22-26 • August 12-16

Camp time: • 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (early drop-off: 8:30am, late pickup: 5:00pm)

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More information: Visit: www.olympickarate.on.ca Phone: 519-473-5444

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Boyle has a bright future

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Community Contribution At just 9 years old, Kaleb Boyle, a born and raised Londoner, has been racking up medals on the International karate stage as part of Team Canada.

Back in October, Kaleb travelled to Dublin, Ireland to represent Canada as part of a 200-person roster at the World Karate Championships (WKC). He competed in continuous sparring and creative weapons, placing 5th in the world in each category.

In January 2019, Kaleb attended the International Committee of Martial Arts (ICOMA) tournament in Montego Bay, Jamaica. There, he took home gold medals in musical weapons and traditional forms/kata, while also earning bronze medals in traditional bo and open bo.

Needless to say, this little ninja is one to be watching, as his personal goal is make it to the Olympics in 2024 or 2028.

Kaleb trains 4 to 5 days per week, mainly with his Sifu, Julian Shamuon, of Hot shot Athletics out of Cambridge, Ontario. What’s next on his schedule? Well, this April the process to make Team Canada starts all over again with provincial qualifiers coming up in April, then Nationals in June and World Championships in the fall in Niagara Falls, New York for 2019.

Something tells us this won’t be the last time you read about Kaleb Boyle.

Kaleb Boyle, middle, shares the podium with his Team USA and his Team Jamaica opponents at this year’s International Committee of Martial Arts (ICOMA) tournament in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

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Make a splash this summer!

Submitted by Forest City Diving Club As the winter season progresses, exciting things are happening at Forest City Diving Club. Not only have our National divers been honing their skills in preparation for Provincial meets, including one hosted in London at the Canada

Games Aquatic Centre (March 1-3), but our Aspire 1 and 2 group, as well as our Precompetitive divers have also been progressing very well.

FCDC divers have brought home numerous medals and achieved top 10 performances at meets throughout the season.

National or Provincial level training camps have given our divers the opportunity to work on their skills, progress, and enter competitions with the best possible preparation. And now, coaches (Luda Zakharenko and Wing Yun Hu) are happy to report they have added a new valuable member to the The Forest City Diving Club is excited to offer its Summer Camps once again, which provide youth aged 6 to 13 the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of diving – and much more – while having fun and coaching staff. Jorge making new friends!

Pupo, former coach of the Thunderbay Dive Team, has joined the FCDC community. Jorge and his family now call London their home, and he is happy to bring his expertise to our divers. Welcome, Jorge and family!

For aspiring divers, we are pleased to offer our 2019 FCDC Summer Camp, held at the Canada Games Aquatic Center (at 1045 Wonderland Road). The camp will run in one-week segments (for six weeks) from July 8 to August 23. We offer children aged 6 to 13 the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of diving, pool safety, and dryland training. The coaches specifically selected to run our camp are enthusiastic about providing a safe and enjoyable environment in which to learn and play – and make new friends! Our camp is for children eager to develop diving skills but who also love to have fun and make new friends.

Campers will get the chance to jump off the 1- and 3-meter diving boards, as well as the tower (depending on their skill levels). A typical day at camp starts at 8:30 am (early drop-off is available) or 9:00 am and ends at 5:00 pm (late pick-up available until 5:30 pm). After warm-up, the morning diving session runs from 9:45 to 11:00 am, followed by crafts, fun and games – and, of course, lunch. The afternoon involves dryland exercises and ends with water time from 4:00 to 5:00 pm.

Attending the camp is also a great way to learn more about the FCDC program and what diving could offer your child in the future (we also provide learnto-dive classes and camps throughout the year). Whether you have never tried the amazing sport of diving before, or you would like to improve your current dives and skills, all campers will receive individual instruction and feedback from our coaches. But most of all, campers will enjoy time spent in the water, in dryland training, and participating in fun activities.

For more information, or to register for our Summer Camp, visit our website at www.ForestCityDiving.com!

www.forestcitydiving.com

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Strong Alone, Unstoppable Together Submitted by the London Aquatic Club The London Aquatic Club hosted the Western Ontario Championships at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre from January 31 to February 3, and the meet

was a resounding success – both from a hosting and performance standpoint.

A total of 850 swimmers competed, representing 22 clubs from across southwestern Ontario, and when the water settled LAC's 92 swimmers won the overall team title in convincing fashion – for the eighth consecutive year.

London swimmers established over 400 personal bests at the meet, and 48 LAC athletes produced a Mac

Truck-sized total of 158 medals in individual events, including 64 gold medals. Another 23 swimmers finished in the top 8 in at least one individual event, and the Club’s relay teams finished in the top 3 in 14 out of 16 possible events.

Two weeks later, LAC also put up a good performance at the Provincial Festival Championships (ages 13 and under) in Etobicoke Feb. 16-17, finishing 9th overall with their 22 competing swimmers. Meanwhile, the Club also raced at both the Ontario Senior and Youth/Junior Championships.

www.londonaquaticclub.ca

The London Aquatic Club sent 22 swimmers to the Ontario Provincial Festival (for swimmers aged 13 and younger) in Etobicoke Feb. 16-17 and placed 9th overall at the meet.

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Renowned sport medicine research Submitted by Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic A successful research program takes teamwork. Here at Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic, we are fortunate to have a strong team – with the combined expertise to make great strides in the research community. Our Research Manager, Stacey Wanlin, oversees the all-star team, which includes worldrenowned Orthopaedic Surgeons, Sport and Exercise Medicine Physicians, Physiotherapists, Nurses, Scientists, an Epidemiologist, Research Assistants and PhD/Master Students. Our goal is to help people of all ages, from recreational enthusiasts to elite athletes, stay active.

Whilst we have had many significant research studies over the years, one that deserves particular mention is the Stability Study, led by Dr. Al Getgood and Dr. Dianne Bryant – in collaboration with six Canadian and two International centres. This is a multicentre randomized clinical trial of 624 young patients treated with ACL reconstruction – with or without lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) – that will finish in March 2019.

We have followed patients for two years post-operatively and collected clinical outcomes, functional testing and patientreported outcomes.

The study results will be presented at the 2019 International Society of Arthroscopy, Knee Surgery and

Orthopaedic Sports Medicine (ISAKOS) Congress in Cancun, Mexico this May. We would like to congratulate Dr. Al Getgood and the Stability team who have received the following awards: 1. Albert Trillat Young Investigator's Award at the 2017 ISAKOS Congress in Shanghai, China for the paper submitted on the “Early Functional Outcomes of the ISAKOS Sponsored Stability Study.”

2. Selected as a finalist for the Jan Gillquist Award at the 2019 ISAKOS Congress for the complications paper titled “Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Or Without A Lateral Extra-Articular Tenodesis – Analysis of Complications From The ISAKOS Sponsored STABILITY Study.”

3. O’Donoghue Research Award, sponsored by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) for best clinical paper that will be presented at the annual meeting in Boston in July 2019. This is for the primary outcome of the Stability Study: “Lateral ExtraArticular Tenodesis Reduces Failure of Hamstring Tendon Autograft ACL Reconstruction –Two Year Outcomes from the STABILITY Study Randomized Clinical Trial.”

Furthermore, we are excited to announce that Dr. Bryant and Dr. Getgood were successful in receiving a Canadian PMS 268 PMS 5425

Photo by Anne McDougall.

Fowler Kennedy’s Research Manager, Stacey Wanlin (right), with Research Assistants Ashley Martindale and Andrew Firth

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Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) project grant for phase 2 of the Stability study, looking at ACL Reconstruction using Bone Patellar Bone or Quad Tendon Autograft with or without Lateral Extra Articular Tenodesis in Individuals who are at High Risk of Graft Failure. We are currently working on initiating 21 sites across North America and Europe, aiming to start recruitment in April 2019.

With the support and collaboration of London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), Lawson Health Research, Western University, and through philanthropic donations from our local community, we are able to put patients first and strive toward achieving our Vision of Setting the Standard of Excellence in Sport & Exercise Medicine.

www.fowlerkennedy.com

Photo by Stacey Wanlin.

Dr. Al Getgood, shown here, has led the ‘Stability Study’ alongside Dr. Dianne Bryant in recent years, a significant research project that has won awards and provided key insights into ACL reconstruction surgery and outcomes.

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LONDON BLUE DEVILS LACROSSE NEWS For the 2019 Spring Field lacrosse season London Blue Devils will be venturing to the the United States to compete in 2 world class events.

With LMLA’s geographical advantage to access the U.S. we have decided to elevate the experience that we can provide to our players. Exposure to the American tournaments can also lead to opportunities for our dedicated players wishing to pursue the game at the college and university level. US Lax Events hosted tournaments are elite level competitions with a full weekend tournament experience.

We will be fielding teams in the following age groups: U8: birth years 2011/1012 U10: birth years 2009/2010 U12: birth years 2007/2008 U14: birth years 2005/2006 On April 13th and 14th all of our teams will all travel to South Bend, Indiana (the home of Notre Dame), to participate in the “Rip The Duck” Tournament.

On April 27th and 28th our teams (U10, U12, U14) will be traveling to Ann Arbour, Michigan (home of University of Michigan) to participate in the “Big Blue” Tournament. An added bonus to this event is that all participating players receive a ticket to see the University of Michigan Men’s Lacrosse team take on The Ohio State University Men’s Lacrosse team on the Friday evening!

Try outs for our Spring Field teams will begin in early March at Silverwoods arena, once the turf field open up in April, teams will move to Citywide for Monday and Friday practices.

www.londonlacrosse.com

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Success down South Submitted by London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby The London Annihilators recently competed in the 27th Annual International Rugby Tournament held in Tampa, Florida. Competition included top-level wheelchair rugby talent from all over the United States (as well as the Quebec provincial team). The Annihilators came out flying and upset quite a few teams to

finish 2nd overall despite the very strong field, losing only to #1-ranked Denver in a nail-biter of a finale.

The team was buoyed by the strong play of Matt Debly and Cody Caldwell, and the Annihilators would like to acknowledge all the fans who attended and really gave the team a home-court

The London Annihilators (2018 team photo shown here) finished an impressive 2nd place this winter at the 27th International Rugby Tournament in Tampa, Florida, losing only to Denver in a hard-fought final

Calendar of Events March 10-16 March Madness Youth Soccer Tournament, BMO Centre March 15 Juno Cup - Presented by CBC Sports, Western Fair Sports Centre March 23 Speed & Custom Car Show, Western Fair District March 30 Pilates at the Market, Covent Garden Market April 13 Harlem Globetrotters, Budweiser Gardens April 28 Forest City Road Races, Victoria Park May 3 Delaware Speedway 68th Season Opener, Delaware Speedway May 5 Stars on Ice, Budweiser Gardens May 11 Professional Bull Riders-Monster Energy Tour, Budweiser Gardens May 11 Hockey Helps The Homeless London, Western Fair Sports Centre

28

advantage.

Following the tourney in Florida, the Annihilators travelled to Phoenix, Arizona to play an equally strong field at the Heat Rave. Despite loaning out some key players to the Canadian National team (who was also in attendance), the Annihilators finished 4th at the event. David Willsie proved that age is just a number with his consistent strong play throughout the tournament, while Pico Dagenais kept up his excellent standard of play, logging huge minutes. Travis Murao, meanwhile, was also named to the all-tournament team.

It's been a busy and successful year for the London Annihilators. The team is looking strong heading into the final stretch of the season, and their roster includes a record 9(!) players invited to the National Selection Camp held in Vancouver in March. Good luck Annihilators!

contact London@SportsXpress.ca

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May 18-19 GOT GAME Street Hockey Tournament, May 25-26 Victoria Park London Sports & Activity Expo, Victoria Park May 18-18 London Sports & Activity Expo, Victoria Park May 24-26 London Blue Devils Invitational Box Lacrosse Tournament, Earl Nichols Recreational Centre May 24-26 London Blue Devils Invitational Box Lacrosse Tournament, Earl Nichols Recreational Centre May 24-26 London Pickleball Tournament, Fanshawe College May 24-27 St. Thomas Minor Baseball Minor Rookie, Minor Mosquioto, & Major Mosquito Tournament, Doug Tarry Sports Complex May 24-26 Poutine Festival, Victoria Park

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May 25 MEC London Race One: 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, St. Julien Park May 27-31 2019 Canadian University/College Golf Championship, Fire Rock Golf Club May 31 Camluck Classic, Western Fair Raceway May 31- June 2 St. Thomas Minor Baseball Major Rookie, Minor Peewee, & Major Peewee Tournament, Doug Tarry Sports Complex May 25-26 Fanshawe Yacht Club Annual Open House, Fanshawe Conservation Area June 7-9 CSL Mid Season Tournament, Byron Optimist Sports Complex

June 7-9 Trevor Barton Memorial Baseball Tournament Week 1, Stronach Fields June 8-9 London Dragon Boat Festival, Fanshawe Conservation Area June 14-16 CSL Mid Season Tournament, Byron Optimist Sports Complex June 14-16 Trevor Barton Memorial Baseball Tournament Week 2, Stronach Fields June 15 London's Corporate Challenge, Harris Park

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Local centre earns national acclaim Submitted by Performance Golf London Golf Canada has honoured a local golf program with one of its most prestigious awards. The London Junior Golf

For its excellent Future Links program for youth, the London Junior Golf Development Centre was recognized as Golf Canada’s 2018 Future Links Facility of the Year

Development Centre is the recipient of Golf Canada’s 2018 Future Links Facility of the Year award.

The London Junior Golf Development Centre earned the award for its outstanding success in delivering Future Links – Canada’s junior golf program.

With an indoor location at Performance Golf London, and outdoor programs at Fire Rock Golf Club and Oxbow Glen Golf Course, the London Junior Golf program has excelled at delivering a complete progressing program. From the 6-and-under juniors in the Active Start program to the competitive juniors on U.S. Scholarships, the program has used Future Links as a cornerstone to track the development of junior golfers.

Under the direction of PGA of Canada professional Brian Gallant, the program saw over 300 juniors participate in last season’s range of programs. Part of the success of the program stems from

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having juniors ‘learn the game by playing the game.’ The unique design of the on-course junior league allows players to start close to the hole, break 36 shots and progress further from the hole. This allows juniors to learn to score the ball first.

The London Junior Golf Development Centre is only the sixth Canadian golf program to receive the Future Links Facility of the Year Award since the inaugural award in 2013.

To become part of this best in-class golf program and community, visit www. golfbetter.ca.

www.golfbetter.ca

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About the Championship The Freedom 55 Financial Championship is the culminating event on the Mackenzie Tour - PGA TOUR Canada schedule, Canada’s only professional golf Tour owned and opperated by the PGA TOUR. Players begin their season-long journey in Vancouver at the Freedom 55 Financial Open and after 11 events, the top-60 secure their spot at Highland Country Club.

More than golf The Freedom 55 Financial Championship is more than golf, with activities for everyone.

Net proceeds from the event support Childcan.

“Everybody wants to play in London at the end of the year. If you made it to London, it means you had a great season.

Highland is a great facility and a really good test of golf for a Tour Championship. The tournament, and what they do for charity, is phenomenal”

Corey Conners PGA TOUR Player Listowel, Ontario

SEPT. 9-15, 2019 Highland Country Club Desgined by Stanley Thompson, Highland Country Club is an exceptional golf, curling and social experience for all. The club is a hidden gem in the core of London.

Highland has been the proud host of the Freedom 55 Financial Championship since 2015.

The next generation of PGA TOUR stars hit London!

The top-5 players on the Order of Merit following the event earn status on the Web.com Tour, the path to the PGA TOUR.

Let’s connect!

Twitter/Instagram: @F55FChamp Facebook: Freedom 55 Financial Championship www.freedom55financialchampionship.com

“Because of the costs assosciated with professional golf, having the support of Freedom 55 Financial, who awards the Canadian Player of the Year Award with a $25,000 bonus, is huge. The money is helping me chase my dream.”

Michael Gligic Web.com Tour Winner Burlington, Ontario

“Playing on the Mackenzie Tour is like playing for the London Knights, we’re trying to make it to the PGA TOUR and they’re trying to make it to the NHL. These players are future stars of the game.”

Mackenzie Hughes PGA TOUR Winner Hamilton, Ontario

ues fessionals

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City of London Municipal Golf 2019 3.5625

5

3.5625

great courses

at affordable prices.

3.5625

HAM

AIRPORT RD

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WONDERLAND RD

7 London Municipal Golf System The City of Fanshawe consists of five great4 golf courses at three SUNNINGDALE RD 22 facilities. Thames Valley, Fanshawe and River FANSHAWE PARK RD Road GolfValley Course. All sites offer a fully stocked Thames pro shop, food and beverage services as well as OXFORD ST KOMOKAmember and private tournaments.

DUNDAS ST ILTO N R guest fees as MMIS Golfers have the COoption D SIONER to pay River Road S RD 2 they play or purchase a regular or unlimited 2/4 golf membership. There are no initiation fees, DORCHESTER DELAWARE shares402or monthly assessments 401 with the ST. THOMAS City of401London Municipal Golf Course System.

All fees are considered reasonable and in keeping with a public course operation.

Course Questions? Fanshawe We are atGolf your service. Please stop 2835 Sunningdale Rd. E. by one of our pro shops or call 519-661-4450.

London, Ontario N5X 3Y7 519-661-4450 (Press 2)

3.5”

Unlimited Memberships:

Regular Memberships:

Designed to give great value to the avid golfer expecting the best experiences at all City of London golf courses.

This membership gives you access with no restrictions to all of our golf courses for a one-time fee.

Designed for the golfer who plays a minimum of 15 rounds per year and is looking for affordable, reduced green fees.

Golfers will pay the initial regular membership fee and then a reduced green fee all season long – 7 days a week at all locations. Please see the regular member green fee charts below.

3.5625

Unlimited Membership Unlimited golf at all sites – 7 days a week.

Youth (9-18) Intermediate (19-24) Adult (25+) Senior (65+)

City of London Municipal

$475 $925 $1,500 $1,350

2019 Golf

Unlimited Value (25+) $1,100 Unlimited play at any golf course Monday to Friday.

Unlimited play at River Road, the Quarry and the Hickory 9 on weekends at no charge. HMay play the Traditional and the Classic on weekends for a regular member green fee.H

Memberships, Green Fees and Cart Packages

Unlimited Hickory (19+) $650 Unlimited golf on the Hickory Course - 7 days a week Unlimited Youth Hickory (7-18) $275 Unlimited golf on the Hickory Course only – 7 days a week.

Juniors under 9 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

All membership age categories will be defined by August 31, 2019.

2019 Payment Plans

All memberships must be paid in full by July 1st.

Thames Valley Golf Course 850 Sunninghill Ave. London, Ontario N6H 3L9 519-661-4450 (Press 3)

For Tee Times 519-661-4450 london.ca/golf

Find us on Facebook: Search ‘City of London Municipal Golf Courses’ Follow us on Twitter: Search ‘CityGolfCourses’ or http:twitter/CityGolfCourses Receive our online newsletter: Visit london.ca/golf and sign up today!

Regular Membership Youth (9-18) $150 Intermediate (19-24) $250 Adult (25+) $295 Senior (65+) $260 Any golf course – 7 days a week pay a reduced green fee.

Thames Valley Hickory (19+) $175 7 days a week - pay a reduced green fee on the Hickory 9.

Junior Thames Valley Hickory (7-18) $50 7 days a week – pay a reduced green fee on the Hickory 9.

Juniors under 9 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Thames Valley Classic & Fanshawe Traditional PRIME TIME: NON-PRIME TIME: TWILIGHT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$23.00 $19.00 $13.00 $10.00

Fanshawe Quarry & River Road

Monthly payment plans will be available for select Unlimited Golf Memberships and payments can start as early as March. Payments may be made by credit card or direct debit from your bank account. Cheques cannot be used for payment plans.

River Road Golf Course 2115 River Rd. London, Ontario N5W 6C4 519-661-4450 (Press 1)

3.375”

Unlimited Adult (25+) Unlimited Senior (65+) Unlimited Value (25+) Unlimited Intermediate (19-24) Unlimited Youth (9-18)

$1,550 $1,400 $1,150 $1,000 $525

Guest Green Fees Thames Valley Classic & Fanshawe Traditional PRIME TIME: PRIME TIME GOLF & CART PACKAGE: NON-PRIME TIME: TWILIGHT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$46.00 $56.00 $38.00 $26.00 $20.00

Fanshawe Quarry & River Road

PRIME TIME: FANSHAWE QUARRY PRIME TIME GOLF & CART PACKAGE: NON-PRIME TIME: TWILIGHT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$19.50 $34.50 $16.50 $13.00 $10.00

PRIME TIME: FANSHAWE QUARRY PRIME TIME GOLF & CART PACKAGE: NON-PRIME TIME: TWILIGHT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$39.00 $48.00 $33.00 $26.00 $20.00

Thames Valley Hickory 9

Thames Valley Hickory 9 ADULT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$10.00 $8.00

ADULT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$20.00 $16.00

All memberships are subject to HST. Please check the website and pro shops for more information on non-prime time and twilight rates. (Green fee pricing includes HST.)

Fanshawe Golf Course 2835 Sunningdale Rd. E. London, Ontario N5X 3Y7 519-661-4450 (Press 2)

River Road Golf Course 2115 River Rd. London, Ontario N5W 6C4 519-661-4450 (Press 1)

Thames Valley Golf Course 850 Sunninghill Ave. London, Ontario N6H 3L9 519-661-4450 (Press 3)

For Tee Times 519-661-4450 • london.ca/golf

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Summer fun ahead!

Submitted by The Little Gym of London After our 2018-19 Show Week at the end of June (where our students show off the skills and routines they learned during the season), we start our Summer 2019 session. This year it begins on June 29 and will go through August 30.

What happens during those nine weeks?

Classes and … Camps!

Our Summer Camps have been extremely popular and have sold out over the past few years. We believe it is due to our awesome curriculum (which has been professionally-designed for social development of young children), not to mention our awesome team of instructors, who have a passion for child development. Here is a list of our summer themes by week, for ages 4-8: July 2-5: ‘Lights, Camera, Action!’ (making a fun movie together) July 8-12: ‘Warrior Pack!’ (ninja skills, obstacle courses, sportsmanship)

July 15-19: ‘Secret Agent – Gyms Bond!’ (search for clues, solve a mystery) July 22-26: ‘Let’s Hear It For Cheer!’ (cheer and dance for both girls and boys) July 29-Aug. 2: ‘Shipwrecked! A Pirate’s Party’ (new adventures and treasures) Aug. 6-9: ‘Dance Around The World’ (music, dance, self-expression) Aug. 12-16: ‘Space Adventure!’ (blast off to outer space) Aug. 19-23: ‘Super Heroes Unite!’ (celebrate super heroes and everyday heroes) Aug. 26-30: ‘Harry’s School of Magic’ (magical adventures) Camps are sold by the week, either full-days or half-days. Once the summer has started, individual full or half-days will be made available, space permitting.

If your child is not yet 4 years old at the time of the camp, or if they will be entering kindergarten for the first time in

September, our full week, half-day (afternoons) School Readiness Program is for them! We ease them into a classroom environment so that the first day of school won’t be foreign to them. This program will run from July 8 through August 30 (children must be bathroom-independent to be admitted to the program).

The Little Gym is the world’s premier enrichment and physical development centre for children ages 4 months through 12 years. Programs offer children a ‘Springboard to Life’s Adventures’ by using movement-based learning and imaginative play to help build the confidence and skills needed at each stage of childhood. Located in Sherwood Forest Mall in London, we can be reached at 519-642-0660, by email at tlglondoncan@thelittlegym.com, or online at www.tlglondoncan.com.

www.tlglondoncan.com

The Little Gym of London offers nine weeks of Summer Camps, each with its own theme. The Little Gym is the premier destination for children to develop – physically, mentally and emotionally – in a fun environment!

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Cheer dreams come true!

Submitted by London Heat Cheerleading

London Heat Cheerleading The London Heat program is excited to have earned a bid to the Cheerleading World Championships for the second year in a row! The athletes on our Senior team, ‘5 Alarm,’ have worked very hard since July to earn their place on the World’s floor. Our Heat athletes will continue training, and they are beyond excited to represent London at The Cheerleading World Championships in April, held at Disney in Orlando, Florida.

Our Junior teams, Crossfire and Rays, meanwhile, have both earned bids to the Summit, which is also held at

Disney. This competition is the largest and most prestigious in the industry, and our athletes are ready to bring some extra Heat to the competition floor in the International division.

If you have a future Heat athlete looking to get some experience before tryouts, or want a lower commitment schedule, check out our Spring Cheer 101 classes!

We also want to give a GIANT shout out to all of our amazing parents! You are the best FANS!

londongymnasticsacademy.com londonheatcheerleading.com

London heat Cheerleading offers a highly-successful program where young athletes learn skills from top-notch coaches and develop into impressive cheer athletes. How impressive? The program will be competing this spring at the World Championships for a second year in a row!

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Filling the gym with fun!

Contributions by Forest City Gymnastics There’s something for everyone at Forest City Gymnastics, which has been providing high-quality gymnastics instruction and opportunities – plus a whole lot of fun – for London youth for over 40 years!

The organization offers both recreational and competitive gymnastics programs (for both boys and girls) in a safe,

fun and nurturing environment. It’s all about helping children and youth learn and develop gymnastics skills (and life skills!) at Forest City Gymnastics, which is accomplished by fostering a fantastic learning environment with high-quality equipment and instruction.

The Club’s 22,000 sq. ft facility (2449 Dundas Street) includes girls and boys

gymnastics equipment, a vault table, trampolines, resi-pit and tumbling floors.

There is also a viewing area for parents and visitors, and of course change rooms for all athletes (and locker facilities for competitive athletes).

Recreational gymnastics programs (Cangym gymnastics) are offered to children as young as 18 to 36 months (P & T

SPR BRE

March 11th t Half AM 8 Half PM Full Day

Spring Recre ecre registratio February

Classes run 1

March 31, 2019 t

Contact our o information

2449 Dundas Street, London ON N5V 3C8 ● 519-452-3242 ● recreation@forestcitygym.com

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sportsfiles Program). Kindergym is for children aged 3 and 4, while Novice Levels 1-2 include kids aged 5 to 7, and those aged 8 to 10 are enrolled in Novice Levels 3-5.

On the competitive side, there are three distinct programs at Forest

City Gymnastics: Developmental (for advanced 4, 5 and 6-year-olds); Precompetitive (the most advanced athletes under 9 years of age who have the potential to compete provincially and/or nationally); and Competitive (advanced gymnasts over age 7 who train to compete at provincial and/or national events).

weeks throughout the summer, with special activities planned each week.

In addition to top-notch gymnastics instruction, campers will also get to enjoy things like outdoor games, treasure hunts, crafts, carnival and interactive games, and more!

For more information on Forest City Gymnastics programs (including both recreational and competitive), as well as our Summer Camp, visit www.forestcitygym.com. You can also follow FCGC and its athletes on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

Summer camp!

Forest City Gymnastics is excited to host its successful Summer Camp once again, which will run from July 8 to August 30. Both half- and full-day camp options are available, as well as weekly and daily spots. There will be themed

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www.forestcitygym.com

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A winter full of cheer!

Submitted by CheerStrike CheerStrike is having a fantastic comour Junior level 3 team (Nobility), and our in the sport of cheer without the competitive season and cannot wait to bring Junior level 4 team (Legacy) are all having mitment and cost involved with competithe entire Royal Family to the Ontario and fantastic seasons and we are all so proud tion. Our Spring session of recreational National Championships. After taking all of their impressive accomplishments. classes begins in April and runs through 19 teams to Cheer Evolution’s Winterfest CheerStrike Royals Inc. is not only June. We offer recreational classes competition in St. Catharines, Ontario, about competitive teams. We offer a based on age and skill level. Register we left with five 1st-place finishes, four large recreational cheer program that today at www.cheerstrikeroyals.com/ 2nd-place finishes, three 3rd-place receives rave reviews every session. Our recreational-cheer finishes, three 4th-place finishes, one program offers all the benefits of training www.cheerstrikeroyals.com 5th-place finish, three outstanding performances for our non-compete teams, and one grand championship title for our Junior level 4 team – Legacy!

More important than how we finished, we also took home wonderful memories of happy children, friendships formed, and smiles on everyone’s faces. The following weekend, we took the Jamfest Canada competition in Mississauga Ontario by storm and hit the floor with entertaining and skilled performances by all Royal teams. We want to give a special shout out to three of our teams that were champions in their divisions two weekends in a row. Our CheerStrike Royals athletes enjoyed great success at Cheer Evolution’s Winterfest competition this year, earning numerous top finishes – Youth level 2 team (Reign), and having great fun along the way!

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Competing on World stage, giving back locally Submitted by Power Cheer Gym

RedOps Representing Canada The team formally known as ‘RedOps’ will now be known as Team Canada Junior Coed! After a lengthy nationwide selection process, the team, comprised of athletes and coaches from Power Cheer Gym (London) and Bluewater CA (Sarnia) will go on to represent Canada this April in Orlando at the ICU World Championships. This is the first dual gym compilation team to earn the title of Team Canada, and we are extremely proud of the athletes and their parents for the work done thus far!

Western All-Girl Western All-Girl wrapped up their competition season in the nation’s capital at the Big East Blast with a win over Carleton University and the University of Ottawa. They now enter their ‘offseason’

and shift their focus to building their freshman recruiting class for next year.

Western All-Girl: Champions at the Big East Blast

Make-A-Wish Over 30 athletes from PCG participated in the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s recipient announcement presentation held at the Covent Garden Market. The athletes performed and revealed that Samantha was having her wish granted to go on a Cruise to Mexico.

June followed by a year-end recital for all programs. Academy performers are currently preparing for upcoming gigs in Southwestern Ontario and have been invited to attend the Newfoundland Circus Festival in September.

The Academy

Viper teams are in the thick of the season and have posted excellent results at events in St. Catharines, Ottawa and Toronto. Upcoming competitions in Orlando and Niagara Falls will cap off the year.

Competition Cheer Season

The Academy @PCG is a blend of Acrobatics, Aerials and Dance training.

Our sold-out Christmas recital showcased the recreational and performance artists, as well as special guest performers. The training follows syllabus in Acrobatic Arts, Aerial Arts and BATD for dance, and classes have exams in

National Team Junior Coed representing Canada at the World Championships in April

Academy Performers always amaze and impress

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www.powercheergym.com pcgvipers

@PCGVipers

Junior Vipers took top spot in Ottawa

Vipers athletes helping Make-A-Wish

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sportsfiles

A growing partnership

By Richelle Hirlehey Two well-known local London businesses were brought together in 2018 for a partnership like no other.

The partnership between Dance Extreme and Scholar’s Choice was born out of a shared love of dance between Cindy and Scott Webster’s daughter, Ashley, and Studio Director Rebecca Brettingham. Little did they realize, they have more in common as company visionaries than they realized.

While both companies’ mission statements differ, each focuses on supporting the growth of the child and both Scholar’s Choice and Dance Extreme share the goal to inspire children as they develop. While the focus at Dance Extreme is on children learning to love the art of dance (through quality dance instruction), its educational philosophy focuses on much more than just dance.

“At Dance Extreme, dance is so much more than just dance. We believe in helping to grow and shape children as dancers and as individuals by fostering life skills that they’ll have for the rest of their lives.”

Scholar’s Choice shares a like-minded vision where their goal is “To give every child a reason to love learning so they can achieve their hopes and dreams.”

Scholar’s Choice chose to sponsor Dance Extreme Dance Camps by provid-

ing quality art materials for the children to use to create daily themed artworks while enjoying their dance camp experience. Dance Extreme plays host to a full complement of Summer Dance Camps, Tween Camps (special weeks geared to pre-teenaged children), March Break and Holiday Camps.

The partnership between Scholar’s Choice and Dance Extreme is wellmatched. When asked, both Founder and Studio Director, Rebecca BrettinghamFilice, and CEO of Scholar’s Choice, Scott Webster, agreed on similar components of their businesses.

Said Brettingham-Filice: “At Dance Extreme, dance isn’t just about dance. It helps with building confidence and selfesteem. We pride ourselves on teaching all our students lessons they will carry with them always.”

Webster (also a former Dance Dad), meanwhile, states: “Dance provides children with infinite opportunities to express themselves and allows them to gain

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confidence in who they are while developing social-emotional skills. These are important aspects of the Playful Learning Approach advocated by Scholar’s Choice as essential ingredients for your child to grow and develop, and ultimately to achieve their hopes and dreams! We are glad that Dance Extreme shares the same passion.”

Dance Extreme thanks Scholar’s Choice for its sponsorship and commitment to providing quality programming for children. If you would like to learn more about Dance Extreme’s summer programs, please visit their website at www.danceextreme.com. And if you’re looking for educational toys and teaching materials, visit www.scholarschoice.ca.

www.danceextreme.com

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Dancing to a milestone Contributions by Donna Bayley and Dance Steps It’s a big year for Dance Steps in 2019, as the organization is celebrating 30 years of dance excellence! Londoners of all ages are enjoying the benefit of dance at the facility, which offers classes in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Modern, Lyrical, Acro and Musical Theatre.

Over the years, many students have achieved skills to attain careers from their dancing years at Dance Steps.

Including Erin Doherty who is presently performing with Ballet Victoria, a touring ballet company on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Dance Steps also has 2 dancers at the National Ballet School, Andrew Larose and Parker Gamble. Not only has Dance Steps ballet program helped dancers pursue their dreams but Dance Steps jazz, tap and hip hop programs have helped such dancers as Henry Firmston, Emerson Gamble and Oliver Gamble earn spots in the Stratford Festival’s production of Billy Elliot this spring.

Heading into spring, Dance Steps is enrolling youngsters for its new Spring Preschool Session (for children aged 2 1/2 to 4 1/2), which is offered on Mondays (4:00-4:30pm) from April 1 to May 27 (8 classes for $100) or Thursdays (6:15-6:45pm) from March 28 to May 30 (10 classes for $122).

Dance Steps offers both Preschool and Adult programs in sessions, while also running full-year programs in a variety of dance disciplines from September to June.

Besides being a lot of fun, dance offers many benefits (to people of all ages), especially when taught by knowledgeable and qualified instructors. For young students, dance can enhance both emotional and cognitive development, while also encouraging socialization and creativity.

Those enrolled in adult classes, meanwhile, can enjoy many of the same benefits while staying in shape while

Dance Steps provides Londoners with the many benefits of dance (physically, mentally and emotionally) in a fun environment!

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leading a busy life (studies show that adults who dance tend to improve and maintain a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle). One of the unique aspects of Dance Steps is that it offers adult classes (including Zumba, Ballet, Tap and Jazz). The Spring session runs from April 2 to May 30 (9 weeks). For more information, including dates and fees, visit www.dancestepsldn.com.

Adults can enjoy numerous benefits from dance, which helps improve strength and muscle function, as well as balance and flexibility – not to mention the exercise helps release endorphins, which improves mood.

Year-End Show In commemorating their 30th year, Dance Steps will be presenting a special year-end show at the Grand Theatre on Saturday, June 1, entitled ‘I’d Rather be Dancing.’ The show will take place at 2:00pm and 7:00pm on the Spriet Stage.

A highly-anticipated anniversary event, Dance Steps is hoping to have past students and teachers take centre stage with current students as they showcase their talents and skills.

The two-hour show will entertain and delight the audience as dancers present ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, modern, acro, hip hop and musical theatre numbers.

www.dancestepsldn.com

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LEGALLY SPEAKING - FEATURING PHILLIP MILLAR

Divorce and your kid’s sports dreams Submitted by Millars Law The two main things that children’s sports and divorce have in common?

They’re both costly and highly competitive. Just like your kids on the sports field, your spouse may do anything to win when it comes to your divorce – including forcing you through a costly and lengthy separation, or even making false claims of domestic violence. In the meantime,

your financial resources and time will be spent pursuing a fair divorce – instead of getting your kids into the major leagues.

Further, an angry spouse may punish you by shutting down your child’s involvement in sports altogether. The problem is that custody and access to children often go hand in hand, which changes the way a parent can control the

activities that their kids are involved in.

The number one takeaway from this article is that you should never break the news that you are leaving without getting legal advice first. The rules of divorce law are very different from the rules of relationships, and what you don't know can hurt you in the long term. Being informed is smart, and it will ensure the best possible outcomes for you and your kids.

Separation is hard, but it doesn't have to be as hard as most people make it.

Millars Lawyers will sit down with you for a free consult so that you can get some real information – maybe even a little peace of mind – and help to navigate the process in the smoothest way possible. Millars Lawyers is also there for you if your ex-spouse tries to put you against the ropes.

Millars is there for you when you can’t afford to lose. Contact Millars Lawyers today to learn more: 519657-1529 or Info@millarslaw.com.

www.millarslaw.com

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Rejuvenated February for Bolts Submitted by the London Lightning The London Lightning have been an up and down team this season. In November, they looked like the championship team from the previous two season, winning three of their first four games. But they quickly fell off in December, going 3-6 and losing a lot of ground in the standings, along with experiencing a midseason coaching change.

January was more of the same, as the

Though it’s been a bit of a rough season overall for the defending champion London Lightning in 2018-19, the team went on a winning streak in February and showed what they’re capable of. They’re hoping for a strong finish to the year.

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team lost more than they won – though they did fare a little better. Through the first three months of the season, the team sat below .500 at 11-14 and in last place in the division.

But February was the Lightning’s turnaround month. Though things started off similarly to previous months, something clicked following a blowout loss to the Windsor Express. The team went on to win five straight games, including a pair of victories over that same Express team.

And they began to look different on the court. The energy they brought to start games startled opposing players, forcing them into turnovers. And they moved the ball around and scored from everywhere on the court. That energy, which provided the team with a lead right off the hop, gave them momentum which they carried through the rest of the game.

Head Coach Elliott Etherington talked about the team’s improved play after their win against the Sudbury FIVE on February 16.

“We have to continue to repeat the effort we are bringing in the first quarter and really set a pace and a tone with a level of assertiveness that we can then maintain over the course of game,” said Etherington.

There has been more of a sense of focus for the team since the calendar

turned to February, as the team began bringing more attention to hustle, consistency, and ball movement, and letting other things, such as scoring, come naturally out of that process.

Part of the scoring which has improved is three-point shooting, which coach Etherington explained after a win Feb. 17 against Titans.

“The attempts aren’t really different from what we’ve done over the past 10 to 12 games, but what has been different is where we are getting our shots, when we are getting them, and how many passes it takes to get that shot,” Etherington said. “The more ball movement, people movement, and better use of the spacing … that’s all what it takes to really be effective from three.”

London has been a hot team, and their strong play brought them back above .500 as of February 20. And it all happened with a few adjustments and changing the focus of the team as a whole.

You can catch the London Lightning in their last two home games this season on March 7 and March 31 at Budweiser Gardens. For tickets and more information, and to follow us on social media, visit:

www.lightningbasketball.ca

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Street tourneys this spring!

By SportsXpress Team The excitement of street-style tournament action is coming back to Victoria Park, as London's biggest outdoor sporting event returns this spring – plus there is a big new addition.

Building off the great success of last year’s inaugural event, the second annual GOT GAME Street Hockey Tournament will take place May 18-19 at Victoria Park.

Hundreds of teams and thousands of players will once again take over the Park and the surrounding streets for two days of exciting street hockey action, as the tournament returns – even bigger and better.

Meanwhile, GOT GAME Sports, the London-based sports event management company, is reviving another tournament tradition with its first-ever GOT GAME Street Basketball Tournament the following weekend, May 25-26, also at Victoria Park.

It’s been a long time since streetballers

in London (and surrounding area) have had a tournament to play in, since the old Gus Macker event left the city more than a decade ago. But basketball is now back – and in a big way, as the GOT GAME Street Basketball Tournament will feature exciting action as players battle for loose balls, play hard-nosed defense, and make highlight-reel scoring plays – all while big crowds take in the action.

Both basketball and hockey tournaments will be attended by people of all ages, and there will be recreational and competitive divisions and certified officials.

“There are a lot of basketball and hockey players locally, and this is their opportunity to play in a big outdoor tournament,” says Greg Matthison, the captain at GOT GAME Sports. “We wanted to fill that void and put on fun and competitive weekend tourneys where players around

the city – and beyond – can come together, compete, and have a lot of fun.”

On back-to-back weekends, thousands of players and fans will be taking over Victoria Park and the surrounding streets for the GOT GAME tournaments, which will also feature other fun activities, including a Sports Expo, a ‘Poutine Festival,’ a Tailgate Party, E-Sports Zone and kids’ fun area.

GOT GAME Sports has teamed up with various community partners to help make their events a huge success, including the London Ball Hockey Association, London Minor Ball Hockey Association, Ball Hockey International, London Lightning, London SportsXpress, and more local basketball and hockey associations.

“These are London's biggest outdoor sporting events, and with the success the hockey tournament enjoyed last year, plus our plans for a great first basketball tournament this year, we expect to offer Londoners excellent sports events for a long time. We’re excited to be able to give Londoners the sporting events they deserve.”

Register today at www.GOTGAMEsports. ca! Registration incentives include prizes valued up to $1,000! See the website for details, and we’ll see you this spring!

www.GOTGAMEsports.ca

On tap this spring is the first-ever GOT GAME Street Basketball Tournament (May 25-26, 2019), as well as the second annual GOT GAME Street Hockey Tournament (May 18-19, 2019), both at Victoria Park. The back-to-back weekends will include other festivities and activities, as Londoners will have the opportunity to enjoy the street-style tournament experience.

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fromthesidelines

Backing young hawks Photos by XGEN Photo (Minor Novice) and Minor Atom parents.

London KIA is a proud supporter of West London Minor Hockey and is a major sponsor of the new Bostwick arena, 16 Tyke Division teams plus Minor Novice MD & Minor Atom MD teams.

West London Minor Novice MD: Front: Jaxon Brush, Cameron Poustie, Alex Vlasyuk, Ashton Malacaria, Owen Doan, Lincoln Spear, Jack Tweedie, Luke Ackerman, Jordan Collins. Middle: Jack Matthison, Grayson Lindsay, Ben Petruniak, Parker Brown, Josh Kocher, Brendan Bishop, Hayden Gibson. Back: Matt Tweedie, Jeff Brush, Greg Matthison, Ryan Brown, Chad Lindsay.

West London Minor Atom MD: 33 Nico Ingram, 14 Miller Wilson, 9 Warren Stout, 5 Jack Naumann, 3 Jacob Murdy, 2 Morgan Gleason, 15 Kaitlyn Nadeau, 13 Hudson Shipley, 12 Ella Husser, 10 Constantino Caskanette, 6 Spencer Lee, 8 Henry Wiley, 4 Reese Brush, 7 Samuel Orendorff, 11 Max Glover, 17 Reid Mould and 35 Xavier Roca

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Proudly sponsored by

Featured Sylvan All-Star: Jacob Franze

Hawks hitting their stride Contributions by Mike Worby The West London Hawks Minor Atom (23) team has enjoyed a strong and entertaining season, both on and off the ice, as they’ve competed in the Hawks organization’s Community Hockey League.

Practicing and playing their home games out of the new Bostwick Community Centre arena, the Minor Atoms Hawks have faced off against the North London Nationals, London Bandits and Oakridge Aeros, in addition to another Hawks team in the league, posting a record of 8-10-1 through the month of February.

At the time of this writing, the Hawks’ team had enjoyed arguably its biggest win of the season, a 9-2 victory over the Aeros in Oakridge.

“The team has steadily improved throughout the season – both individually and as a team,” said Mike Worby, the team’s head coach. “It’s all about improving and working on the fundamentals in an effort to continue getting better, and we’ve certainly seen an improvement across the board while the kids have had a lot of fun.”

Regardless of the score, this group of

kids has been enjoying playing the great Canadian game all winter, and they get excited each and every time they step on the ice.

“Our players are really passionate about hockey. They really love the game,” said Worby, a third-year head coach who also spent five seasons as an assistant. “Win or lose, they love coming to the rink.”

The Hawks are scheduled to play three games in March before the playoff season.

One thing is for sure for this group of hockey-loving Atoms: they’ll have fun playing each and every game!

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Sylvanlearning.com West London Hawks Minor Atom (23) team: Front row (left to right): Logan Lindsay, Ayden Carter, goalie Patrick Keogan, Joel Foreman, Amir Abdulkarim, Jacob Franze, Lucas Bolland, Benjamin Worby. Middle row, standing: Aiden Testa, Dylan Greensides, Ameen Medduui, Cruz Columbia. Coaches (back row): Glen Keogan (trainer), Mike Worby (Head coach), Matt Columbia (Asst. coach), and Doug Foreman (Asst. coach). Absent: Carter Tviet, Chand Lindsay (Asst. coach)

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sportsfiles

Team chemistry key for Peewees Proudly sponsored by

Contributions by Carolyne Roy A team-first mentality is something the London Devilettes Peewee A team has adopted all season as they’ve competed in the Lower Lakes Female Hockey League (West Division) and in tournaments in Ontario and the U.S. But creating a team-first atmosphere takes work, as all skills do. The Devilettes’ coaching staff has worked hard to instil the mentality in the players, and the players have done their job, working hard to live the mentality.

“The girls have really adapted well to working with systems and trusting each other to be doing their job on the ice,” says coach Carolyne Roy. “We are always

working on hockey skills on the ice – and life skills off the ice.”

It has translated to wins on the ice. The Peewees have medaled at three different tournaments, including capturing a silver medal at their own tourney – the massive London Devilettes Annual Tournament, which draws team from all over the province and beyond. Meanwhile, they won the Markham Starfest Tournament and finished second in the Harbor Centre Cup in Buffalo.

They also qualified for the OWHA Provincials in April by winning a best-ofthree series against St. Thomas. With the series tied at one game apiece and

London Devilettes Peewee A team: Back row left to right: Grace Mclean, Hayden Dunn, Haley Murphy, Mya Farr, Bridget Speiran, Makaylah Eldred, Jayla Lamers, Makena Watson, Kaley Speer. Front row left to right: Makayla Tweedie, Julia Chagnon, Maddie Vilon, Bria McCann, Marissa Chirico, Parker Riley. Missing from photo: Gabrielle Petruniak, Tara Beattie

Mya Farr is sponsored by Dalmar Motors. She is #18, plays defence and her player is Even Bouchard.

trailing 3-0 in the first 5 minutes of Game 3, the Devilettes somehow managed a remarkable 4-3 come-from-behind victory, scoring the winning goal with 26 seconds left in the game.

“Our hard work and dedication have helped us win some important games,” says Roy, who has been coaching with the Devilettes program for four years.

“Teamwork, and the ability to work as one, has been key to our success. Our moto is ‘Good teams have talent, Great teams have chemistry.”

The Peewees are a strong, fast-skating team that pressures teams and makes them make mistakes. They’ve done a lot of that in regular season play, competing in a small four-team division against Stratford, Lakeshore and St. Thomas.

At the time of this writing, the girls were looking forward to their first-round playoff matchup against the Lakeshore Lightning, which would have put them one step closer to Championship Weekend at the end of March.

Special events and playoff time Submitted by Komoka Kings Hockey Club With the playoff season starting in March, the Komoka Kings bolstered their ranks with acquisitions just before the trade deadline. Forwards Ryan McAllister (a Sudbury Wolves draft pick) and Bryce Lewis, both Londoners, came from the London Nationals for Kings forward Wes Dobbin, while the Kings also acquired defenceman Carson Pearce, from Kilworth, who recently played for the Odessa Jackalopes of the NAHL. “Our play has been getting better during the season, but adding more firepower and tightening up our defence

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will make us more of a strong contender during the playoffs,” said Kings head coach, Ron Horvat.

“We’ve struggled on and off through the season, but we’ve put together some fantabulous games against the top teams in our division,” added Horvat. “We have the talent to take on any team in the league, and as long as our players are

The Kings celebrate Special Abilities Night with (from left to right) Captain Joel Mazzilli, Bradley Ward (Equipment Assistant), Mark Ideson (Paralympic gold and bronze medalist), Liam Panziera and D'Arcy Panziera

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Big Knight out!

Submitted by Preferred Insurance Signature Partner Night for Wawanesa Insurance and Preferred Insurance with the London Knights was a lot of fun – and a huge success!

The evening featured games, prizes and lots of giveaways from both companies for all Knights fans who visited their booth. The Preferred Intern Team handed out giveaways and contest entry ballots to fans as they entered Budweiser Gardens. They also designed and launched a social media contest in which fans could enter for a chance to race the Wawanesa Trucks on the ice during the 2nd intermission. The race was a big hit and entertaining for the fans to watch!

Two lucky contestants were chosen to race the Wawanesa Trucks during the 2nd intermission

Bonnie Ingrahm from Wawanesa and Peter Carr from Preferred were honoured to take part in the ceremonial puck drop with Ty Dellandrea of the Flint Firebirds and Matthew Timms of the London Knights (and, of course, the Knights’ mascot, Scorzy). The evening was entertaining and very successful for everyone involved.

“We are truly grateful to have such great partners in Wawanesa Insurance and the London Knights,” says Peter Carr from Preferred Insurance.

The Knights capped off the evening with the win!

The Preferred Insurance Intern Team handed out thousands of giveaways to Knights fans!

The puck drop for Special Abilities Night included (from left to right) D'Arcy Panziera, Bradley Ward, Mark Ideson, Liam Panziera, and Sarnia Captain Alec DeKonning

Knights ticket contest Enter the Knights’ Playoffs #SuiteSeats Contest by Preferred Insurance! The company is giving away 4 tickets in their suite to every Knights Home Playoff Game!

To enter the contest, visit www. preferred-ins.com or check out all their social media channels!

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Bonnie Ingrahm, from Wawanesa Insurance, and Peter Carr, from Preferred Insurance, take part in the London Knights’ ceremonial puck drop during their Signature Partner Night

focused on the game at hand, they can defeat any of them.”

Kings forward Luc Arsenault was recognized by the GOJHL as the defensive player for the month for December at a presentation prior to the Kings’ January 26 game.

The regular season wrapped up for the Kings on February 23 after some great Saturday home games against division rivals and teams higher in

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the standings. And then it was time for playoffs!

Special Abilities Night The Kings hosted an Events Night on January 12 for those with Special Abilities. Joining the event was Paralympian Mark Ideson, a bronze and gold medalist, who dropped the puck alongside two of our devoted fans in the Kings family.

Golden Opportunity Assistance (GOA Dogs) owner Donna Frezell did a presentation during the first intermission on how dogs are beneficial to those who need assistance – including dogs who are able to pick up laundry, remove coats and even help with a wheelchair.

www.komokakings.com

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teamprofiles

A referee’s perspective…

By Britney Nutt The George Bray Sports Association (GBSA) opens the doors for children with special needs to take part in our great northern sport of hockey. While getting to enjoy the game, the children learn skills like teamwork and socialization, while also creating friendships within their team and the community along the way. I have been refereeing at GBSA for about four years now, and I have been part of the GBSA community since I was little.

The games are very early in the morning (which, yes, is painful on a Saturday), but the second I walk into the arena and see the smiling faces of the beautiful little children that I referee, my day becomes the best it could ever be.

Being part of an organization that gives these kids the opportunity to play hockey brings me great joy, and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else in the world. Seeing their eyes light up as they get a pass from a teammate or witnessing the rush of excitement when they score their first goal ever is a very special feeling. The arena just explodes with positive energy.

I can’t help but look around and see a smile on every single person’s face.

Getting to know the kids has given me an even greater love for my job. It might be as simple as asking them, ‘Hey, how was your Christmas?’ – or getting a huge

hug from a player after they score their goal that they’ve been pushing for each and every week. This wonderful feeling is almost indescribable. These children are such amazing people that I love and keep close to my heart each day.

With the incredible support from the community of London, and our beloved sponsors, GBSA has grown to be one of the best things to look forward to during the hockey season. If it’s our annual Pond Hockey tournament, our Annual Skate-A-thon fundraiser, or even just our weekly Saturday morning games, there is never a dull moment at GBSA. Walking out the doors of the arena after my last game is saddening, but it makes me even more excited for the next

week to come as quickly as possible.

New games, new opportunities, and new chances to see the wonderful people who make this organization as wonderful as it has been for the last 50 seasons.

Watching the games brings me great joy, but being a referee for these children is one of the best feelings I have ever felt. Many of my best memories from refereeing have been laughing with the kids and also cheering on the children as they have fun rushing down the ice with the puck. GBSA provides amazing opportunities for children and families who don’t always get these options. I could not be prouder of the people and the organization!

www.georgebraysports.ca

Britney has been a hockey referee within the George Bray Sports Association (Junior Division) for the last four years, and she gets to see how special the organization and its athletes are on a regular basis. GBSA is celebrating 50 years in 2018-19

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sportsfiles

Fun the focus for tourneys Submitted by 3on3Tourneys So, kids need even more hockey in their lives, right?

Well, regardless of which side of the debate you fall on, you won’t find 3on3Tourneys there. You will find them, however, in an arena putting together a reliable tournament-style day that recreates a time when kids could play just for fun.

“Back in the day,” Canadian kids could be found after school, or on days off from school, playing road hockey with friends, neighbours, family, and other kids they didn’t yet know. Teams were random, and everyone played together – just for fun.

Kids tried new moves they learned in practice or saw on Hockey Night in Canada.

If they got it, great! If they didn’t, they’d try it again and again. Perhaps without even realizing it, they learned skills of the game, how to be creative and how to work with others, because they were having fun.

3on3Tourneys provides that kind of environment for minor hockey players of all ages, including those at the TYKE/IP age, boys and girls, and at all levels of ability.

And they do it on days parents need it most: PD Days and most STAT holidays.

Every month, a 3on3tourney can be found taking place at an arena in London.

Teams enter with a roster, usually made up of current teammates, friends, family, and/or neighbours, and they play other teams matched up within their division.

It’s here that kids can try their lessons learned at practice – or the Ovechkin, Crosby, McDavid, or Marner moves.

Certified referees officiate all games, adhering to their no-body-contact policy.

After round-robin play, teams are seeded and the day wraps up with a championship/consolation game and medals presented to all. Many kids participate regularly; others, when it’s convenient. It’s the road hockey feeling of fun and freedom

3on3Tourneys offers kids of all ages a throwback style of recreational hockey, where the main focus is on having FUN!

combined with the structure of a schedule, a safe venue, and a few guidelines to promote the safety of all kids involved.

The 3-on-3 style of hockey is fun to watch and fun to play – just ask any NHL player going into overtime. By participating, you’ll quickly see that 3on3Tourneys isn’t trying to add more hockey to your kids’ life. They are, however, trying to add more FUN hockey to it.

Visit their website, www.3on3tourneys. com, for additional information on upcoming events.

www.3on3tourneys.com

Where is he Now: Justin Murray

By Haley Tice for the London Nationals Justin Murray started his junior career at 16 in his hometown of London with the Nationals of the GOJHL during the 201415 season, and he played a critical role in London’s successes during his one-year stint as a dominant defenseman.

“As a 16-year-old, being able to play in my hometown in front of my parents, friends and family was a pretty special experience,” says Murray, who recalls many memories and experiences that have had a lasting impact.

“One of my favourite memories was when we went into the playoffs being the lower seed to Chatham, and Tanner Ferreira scored in OT of Game 6 to move us on to the next round,” Murray says.

“To be able to win a playoff round as the underdog was pretty special.”

In Murray’s season with the Nationals, he racked up 37 regular season points in 49 games (fifth-highest on the team), an impressive feat for a defenseman.

He earned the Phibbs Inc. Award as the

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Western Conference Most Outstanding Rookie Defenseman, and he was selected to participate in the GOJHL Top Prospects Game.

Murray then spent three-and-a-half seasons with the OHL’s Barrie Colts – before being traded to Saginaw in December. He was named captain of the Colts at the beginning of the 2017-18 season, and he held that role position until the trade.

“It was definitely tough being traded after being in Barrie for so long,” Murray says. “But I can’t be more grateful and thankful to Saginaw for making me feel welcome as soon as I got there.”

Although this season is Murray’s final in the OHL, he’s not distracted by thinking about what the future may hold.

“I definitely want to keep playing hockey as long as I can,” he says. “I’m just trying to focus on this year right now and having a long playoff run, and we’ll see what happens at the end of the year.”

Former London Nationals player and London native, Justin Murray, believes his time with the Nationals provided him with a solid foundation for his future success in the OHL.

Murray says his time with the Nationals had a lasting impact on him and provided him with the foundation to succeed in the OHL. He says coach Kelly Thomson and assistant coach Reggie Thomas, both former OHLers, had a significant influence on him.

“Even the training staff, like Joe Gowers and the other coaches, were really good and helped the team,” Murray says. “I think that's why we were able to achieve more than what people expected.”.

www.londonnationals.on.ca

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fromthesidelines

Championships coming to Komoka Submitted by the Elgin Middlesex Chiefs The Elgin Middlesex Chiefs have been selected to host the Ontario Hockey Federation Championships for the Atom AAA division this April, and the organization will welcome hockey players and their families and fans from all across Ontario. The tournament will take place at the Komoka Arena from April 12-14.

What is the OHF Championship?

The Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) Minor Hockey Championships is a 3-day event that produces OHF Branch Champions at the Atom AAA division. The tournament takes place at the conclusion of every major hockey season. Five teams participate at each of the OHF

Championships. The participants are the Championship teams from Alliance, Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL), Northern Ontario Hockey Association (NOHA) and Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) plus the host team.

These 5 teams will compete all weekend to be named the top team in Ontario.

The Championship is not just an opportunity for the league champions to come play for bragging rights. It’s an opportunity to play the highest competition and meet new people and make friends and memories, all while playing the game they love. It gathers families and fans from across Ontario to the ElginMiddlesex-London area to play Canada’s favourite pastime.

The Host Team - Elgin Middlesex Chiefs

Pictured is the Elgin Middlesex Chiefs team that competed at the OHF Championship two years ago. The organization will host this year’s tournament in Komoka from April 12-14.

‘TEAM - Together Everyone Achieves More’ is the motto used by Chiefs head coach Marc van de Ven over the past two seasons, and it has helped lead the host team to great success – both on and off the ice. van de Ven and his coaching staff instill in the team that it takes all 17

players to contribute to each and every game to have success.

Last season, the Major Atom Chiefs finished with an impressive 28-3-1 record and won the International Silver Stick Championship. The team has continued with their success this season, finishing their league in 2nd place in their division with a record of 23-6-3. The team is extremely honoured to be able to host and participate in such a prestigious event.

Want to take in a game?

The OHF schedule will be posted on the Elgin Middlesex Chiefs website (www. elginmiddlesexchiefs.com) and the OHF website (http://ohfchampionships. pointstreaksites.com/view/ohfchampionships) closer to the event. Tickets can be purchased at the door.

How can you be involved?

This is your chance to reach a provincial audience and support your community. For more information regarding advertising, sponsorship/donations, vendor or volunteer opportunities, please contact an Elgin Middlesex Chiefs board member or the Major Atom team at www. elginmiddlesexchiefs.com.

www.elginmiddlesexchiefs.com

Co-Ed Spring Hockey League Starts April 21st

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Keane demanding attention

By Connor Loucks and Fraser Weir and photos by Terry Wilson/OHL Images Much has been made of the New York Rangers’ 2018 NHL draft. The team came away with 10 players in seven rounds, including an eye-popping three firstround picks. With a haul like that, it might be easy for a prospect to get lost in the shuffle – but that’s something that Joey Keane, the 88th overall selection, refuses to do.

Growing up in Homer Glen, Illinois, Keane was one of four brothers (Thomas, Gerard and Jack) who were part of a period of unprecedented growth in youth hockey in Illinois, coinciding with the ascent of the Chicago Blackhawks as three-time Stanley Cup champions.

The Keane brothers played their youth hockey with the Chicago Mission program. Joey put up very strong numbers, ultimately leading him to be drafted in the 5th round by the Barrie Colts in the 2015 OHL Priority Selection. In 2016, Keane moved to Dubuque, Iowa to play for the USHL’s Fighting Saints – as one of the youngest players in the league.

Then came decision time. Though committed to play hockey at Miami University in Ohio, Keane chose to forgo the NCAA and join the Barrie Colts.

“I’d heard nothing but good things about the OHL,” he said, “and I knew it provided a more pro atmosphere and pro-style game that would better prepare me for the National Hockey League.”

In his first OHL season, Keane produced 19 points (1 goal, 18 assists) in 67 games. He was named an assistant captain in 2017-18 and promptly emerged as an offensive threat, with 44 points (12 G, 32 A) in 62 games, as well as 7 points in 12 playoff games for the Colts.

His strong season led to him being drafted in the 3rd round by the New York Rangers in the 2018 NHL Draft.

“It was a really exciting time for the family. I was really happy, and my parents were really proud,” said Keane.

“Then, getting the chance to play in

the preseason game at Madison Square Garden … I couldn’t ask for a better organization to get drafted by.”

Keane returned to Barrie for a third season in 2018-19, and he was well on his way to establishing career highs before being part of a midseason trade to the Knights. All he’s done since is play around point-per-game hockey with London, opening more eyes on a talented blue line, and helping the Knights gear up for a Memorial Cup run in 2019.

In London, Joey has joined his younger brother, Gerard, who came to the Knights last summer as a 16-year-old rookie. The brothers are living together, sharing a billet house, and supporting each other on and off the ice.

“I feel like I can help his transition into the league as he plays alongside me and guys like [Evan] Bouchard and [Adam] Boqvist,” said Joey of his younger sibling.

“And he has helped my transition to London, as well, just bringing a sense of

Joey Keane, who joined the London Knights after a midseason trade, is having the best year of his young career as he hopes to help the Knights make a strong Memorial Cup push this spring

familiarity and comfort.”

Having already played in three OHL seasons, as well as nearly cracking the lineup of the U20 United States national team for the World Junior Championship, Keane (who will turn 20 this July) is expected to push for an extended look from the Rangers next season.

Wherever he plays, one thing is for sure: no one is overlooking Joey Keane anymore.

www.londonknights.com

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sportsfiles

Training the stoppers Submitted by Snipe Academy With the high level of training for forwards and defensemen at Snipe Academy, people sometimes forget that the goalie training at the facility is also top notch. And the netminders who are benefiting from high-quality instruction range from new goalies learning the position to members of the London Junior Knights’ AAA program.

Goalie training at Snipe provides players with the same opportunities as shooters, giving them the chance to work on the fundamentals of the position – but without the expensive cost of regular ice time.

“The synthetic ice is great for many reasons,” says Shane Bourbonnais of Snipe Academy. “It gives goalies a chance to work on knees to feet recover-

ies, because the surface is hard to slide on. This is an important skill, because recovering to your feet allows goalies to take up more net, have their edges for explosive lateral movements, and adjust depth if they need to.”

It also gives goalies more save options (‘keep your feet, keep your advantage’).

There is a time and a place to use ‘knees to knees’ (butterfly shuffles/butterfly slides), Bourbonnais says, but often goalies overuse these movements.

Meanwhile, goalies at Snipe Academy also work on tracking pucks in and following rebounds (with efficient movements and good visual attachment), as well as practicing shots along the ice and deflecting pucks into the corners, out of harm's way. The goalie program at Snipe

Coach Jim Sidwell works with goaltenders Jeremy Amaral and Harrison Crossen, who play with the London Junior Knights’ AAA program

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is powered by Stonewall Goaltending Academy, which is one of London’s most popular on-ice goaltending schools.

“Goalies can even work on their shots too, putting in reps just like the other players,” Bourbonnais says. “Hockey is starting to use goalies not only to stop the puck, but sometimes to act as a third defenseman.”

Snipe’s weekly classes, which run at 8pm on Wednesday and 1pm on Saturday and Sunday, give minor hockey goalies the opportunity to train in a small group setting. The Academy also offers private sessions for those interested. To learn more about Snipe, visit:

www.snipeacademy.com

Jessica Thompson of the Atom B Lambeth Lancers working on her goaltending skills at Snipe Academy with coach Shane Bourbonnais

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teamprofiles

Winning in Wilmot

in their first tournament but ended up finishing second).

The players, coaches and parents have enjoyed a successful season.

Said Devilettes forward Skylar Leboldus: “We have a really good team this year, thanks to our coaches and hard work from our players.”

Submitted by London Devilettes Bantam team and photo by Luke Durda It’s been a successful winter for the London Devilettes Bantam hockey team, and one of the highlights came in January, as the team won the Bantam hockey tournament in Wilmot, Ontario from January 11-13 and proudly brought home gold medals.

In what was the second tournament of their season, the Devilettes performed strong from start to finish in Wilmot, losing only once and beating Waterloo, 3-0, in the finals. It was a great experience, and a lot of fun, for the team to see other teams from all over the province (and sometimes even the United States).

These tournaments are not easy to win, as there are a lot of strong teams.

London goaltender Kennedy Thorne earned three straight shutouts en route to helping her team win the tourney.

Kennedy has only been playing Ice hockey for three years. Halfway through her first season, she decided to try play-

ing goalie and she never looked back.

Now in her second full season with the Devilettes, that tournament final victory was her 10th shutout of the year www.londondevilettes.ca (Kennedy also plays Ice hockey with the boys in the red circle league to keep her busy over the winter).

The London Devilettes, who are coached by Shane Harkness, had been playing well all season, but for most of the girls the Wilmot experience was their first ever tournament The London Devilettes’ Bantam team won the Wilmot tournament in January. win (the team Top row (left to right): Maggie Harkness, Jocelyn Puhl, Cloe Howe, Naysa Williams, Lily Durham, made it to the final Jamie, Skylar Leboldus. Bottom row: Nicole Van Den Nieuwenhuizen, Kennedy Thorne, Shayne Northey, Akaisha O'Dwyer, Riley McKinnon

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Caring about the community

By SportsXpress Team The AM Group of Companies is a leader when it comes to getting involved in the community. And they’re particularly big on two things: children’s health and sports.

It all started eight years ago, when the child of the company’s original owner, based in Owen Sound, experienced a life-threatening illness. They came to London for treatment, and they spent two weeks at the London Children’s Hospital.

After extensive treatment, the owner’s child rebounded. The care they received at the hospital had a profound impact,

and the family has been eternally grateful. Soon after, they set up a branch in London.

Andrew Mischuk, who is part-owner, operates the London location, and he’s been very active in the community since day one. The company continues to donate $1,000 every month to the Children’s Hospital, and they raise even more money from events. For instance, last year they got involved with the GOT GAME SPORTS Street Hockey Tournament in London, bringing in Toronto Maple Leafs legend Darryl Sittler to autograph

Long-time supporters of the Children’s Health Foundation, the AM Roofing team has raised more than $93,000 for the cause over the years

The local sales and administration team at AM Group of Companies: Back row (left to right): Andrew Mischuk, Frank Fanning, Steve Boyle, Josiah Gouin, Kevin Couto, Kayla Adams, Carmen Carnegie, Paul Shields. Front row: Melissa Price, Dan Masri, Talbot Smith, Jeff Wilcox.

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mini sticks, with the proceeds (more than $3,000) going to the Children’s Health Foundation (the company then matched that amount).

“We feel a responsibility to be active in the community and help our neighbours,” says Mischuk, who also oversees the company’s sponsorship of golf tournaments that raise money for the Ronald McDonald House. “Supporting the London Children’s Health Foundation is obviously a cause very close to our hearts, and we’re always thrilled when we get the chance to help out such a great organization. The staff there do tremendous work.”

Over the years, the company has raised more than $100,000 for the cause. In the sports world, they’ve also been active sponsoring youth teams in the region.

Meanwhile, the company has been making waves from a business perspective – and has been earning accolades along the way.

• Top Choice Award - Mark of Excellence, 2017, 2018, 2019 • Consumers Choice Award, 2018 • Integrity Award Finalist, 2018 (over 500 entries) • Chamber of Commerce Business Achievement Award of Excellence, 2019 Finalist • Top 100 Places To Work in Canada, 2017 • Many other awards in other local regions But the company always finds time to be active in the community. In fact, it’s a part of their core identity.

“It’s part of our DNA and who we are as a company,” says Mischuk. “The community supports us, and we want to make sure that we’re giving back. And our embrace that. We all love to be involved in the community and really make a difference in London.”

www.amgroupofcompanies.ca

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