SportsXpress Mar/Apr 2017

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MARCH/APRIL 2017 London & Area Edition

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fitness ............................................... pgs 4-5 running ............................................. pgs 6-7 lacrosse ................................................. pg 9 baseball ..........................................pgs 10-11 soccer ............................................ pgs 12-19 curling...................................................pg 21 accessible sports ................................. pg 22 climbing ............................................... pg 23 cheerleading ................................. pgs 24-27 gymnastics.................................... pgs 27-28 dance ................................................... pg 29 seniors activities ............................pgs 30-31 golf ............................................... pgs 32-35 basketball ..................................... pgs 35-37 aquatics ........................................ pgs 38-40 scholarship ...........................................pg 41 volleyball .......................................pgs 41-43 bowling ......................................... pgs 44-45 football ......................................... pgs 44-47 karate .................................................. pg 48 hockey .......................................... pgs 48-62 Special thanks to City of London Golf, Extreme Indoor Golf and London Junior Golf for contributions to the cover.

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sportsfiles

Get stronger this spring Submitted by REV3K Do you have fitness goals you’d like to achieve? Losing weight, gaining weight, gaining muscle? Perhaps you’re training for an upcoming event? REV3K might be the answer you’re looking for.

Coming in May 2017, you can achieve those goals – in our 6-week REVolution program! At REV3K, you’ll get: one-onone coaching, a nutritionist, an USANA MySmart Start food kit, and full access

to our facility. We meet every Wednesday evening, where you’ll get a group workout in. May is a great time to achieve your goals and get ready for the summer!

REV3K is based on the principals of Modern Circuit Training and Olympic Lifting. We have two locations in London, and we offer classes and programs 7 days a week. Each program is based on 3,000 seconds of high-impact exercise that works every major muscle group.

Each workout is an entirely new routine, and no class is ever repeated.

Try us out for a week and experience the best workout! Have questions? Feel free to give us a call at 519-474-2871, or email us at info.rev3k@gmail.com.

www.rev3k.com REV3K’s 6-week REVolution program is a great introduction to the REV3K gym and offers a great workout for participants.

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Check out our website at www. London.SportsXpress.ca

March/April 2017 PUBLISHER: Greg Matthison GregM@SportsXpress.ca, 519 619 6029

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

Todd Devlin Alyssa MacLeod Britt Cobean

CONTRIBUTORS

Richelle Hirlehey, Brandon Piper, Tyler Schepens, Kim Benke, Peter Inch, Shelley Wood, Aaron Brady, Justin Smith, Rob Jamieson, Jason Smith, Chloe Ryall, Steven DuBarry, Dan Haugh, Shawn Phibbs, Jason Ross, Marc Depatie, Jen McGrenere, Grace Howes, Coach Trace, The Little Gym of London, London Lightning, EBBA, Bowlerama Royale, BodyWorx, Connect Sports London, Junction Climbing Centre, Forest City Diving Club, REV3K, BMO Centre, Carling Heights Optimist Club, Ball Hockey International (BHi), Preferred Insurance, Sport Clips London, Progressive Hockey Development, London Gymnastics Academy, London Wheelchair Basketball Association, London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby, Mountain Equipment Co-op, City of London Municipal Golf, Western Mustangs, Forest City Volleyball Club, Elite Stars Basketball, Byron Soccer, Extreme Indoor Golf, London Devilettes Hockey, London Minor Lacrosse Association, Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs, London Junior Mustangs, London Minor Football Association, London Sharks Volleyball, Little Kickers London, FC LONDON, Puckstoppers, Power Cheer Gym, Middlesex Swimming, Olympic Karate, London Aquatic Club, the SportsXpress Team and local sports enthusiasts.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS

Jake MacDonald, Stu Switzer, Joanna Swirski, Gerald Girouard, Stephanie Morton, Marta Antolini, Becky Collins, Trish Phibbs, Ryan Starr (London Knights), Genoa Moxley, Greg Matthison, Sharyn (SmugMug), Bob Wilson (Shooters Sports Photography), Picture Day Photography, Claus Andersen (Getty Images), Forest City Image Centre, Connect Sports London, BodyWorx, London Senior Games, Dance Extreme, Forest City Diving Club, Byron Soccer, Preferred Insurance, Elite Stars Basketball, Mountain Equipment Co-op, London Wheelchair Basketball Association, London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby, Forest City Volleyball Club, London Gymnastics Academy, Extreme Indoor Golf, Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs, Forest City Road Races, Fanshawe Falcons Athletics, London Junior Golf Development Centre, London Sharks Volleyball, Progressive Hockey Development, NorWest Soccer, Bowlerama Royale, REV3K, Little Kickers London, FC LONDON, London Devilettes Hockey, London Junior Mustangs, Puckstoppers, Western Mustangs, London Minor Lacrosse Association, London Minor Football Association, Middlesex Swimming, The Little Gym of London, Junction Climbing Centre, CheerStrike, Olympic Karate, Power Cheer Gym, the SportsXpress Team, various sports group photographers and community sports fans.

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. SportsXpress London is published six times per year. SportsXpress London 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 SportsXpress London attempt to provide accurate and useful information and commentary. However the editors, contributors and SportsXpress London 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.

Training teams, training talent Submitted by BodyWorx

SAQ (speed, agility quickness) & Conditioning is in full swing down at BodyWorx with head conditioning trainer, coach and owner Tania Admans.

Training young athletes is both rewarding and essential for long-term development in sport. Sport is moving in the direction of “more is better,” in terms of training on the field or in the gym. This is where proper functional conditioning comes into play.

BodyWorx is known for developing teams and individual athletes to peak their performance, maintain endurance and strength, and remain injury-free where repetitive motions are an issue.

Special focus is on youth getting into their teen years and developing the strength necessary to be competitive.

Plyometric strength, along with some weighted activity, is being introduced …

Gaining power on takeoff speed, whether it be on a direction change in soccer, or vertical jumps in volleyball … Increasing leg strength for stronger kicks, better grounding, and/or higher verticals …

Getting the core involved for all movements. And all this without losing speed and agility!

Our athletes begin working on bodyweight, plyometric strength at around

@SportsXpressLON

the U13 age. Once there is good coordination, and once speed has been accomplished, weighted exercise is introduced.

Tips: While there are guidelines for when to introduce weight training vs. continuing with SAQ, there are individual factors to look for. SAFETY is first! Consider … t Athlete’s ability t Prior training and muscular preparation t Past and present injuries t Phase of growth t Type of athlete and position to train for As an athlete, you never want to lose your speed. So, remember to always incorporate SAQ drills into each practice session. Train for speed first, endurance second, and strength as necessary.

www.bodyworxtraining.com

BODYWORX 142 Fullarton Street www.bodyworxtraining.com tania@bodyworxtraining.com 519-858-BODY

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5

London is lacing up for the 35th year of the London Life Forest City Road Races Mh_jj[d Xo 9^be[ HoWbb

This year London Life Forest City Road Races are celebrating 35 years as the premiere running event in SW Ontario. All of the proceeds raised from the event goes to the Thames Valley Children’s Center. TVCC supports over 8000 kids with disabilities from all over SW Ontario.

With over 2500 participants each year, it is nice to see so many runners and walkers come out to contribute to build a strong local community. Distances offered are the McDonalds Kids Fun Run, the M&T Printing Group 5k, the New Balance London 10k and the McFarlan Rowlands Half Marathon. For those who like to be pampered, the Vogue Optical VIP tent boasts private massage, warm place to change, private bathrooms, and celebrities like Olympians Eric Gillis and Reid Coolsaet.

1982-2017

CELEBRATIN G

This is a great opportunity for sports teams, co-workers and large groups to work together as one and raise money for many different charities. This year over 15 charities are involved for participants to collect pledges.

Keeping the entire family in mind, all weekend you can enjoy the Skor Wholesale Expo. Over 30 vendors supporting health and fitness, as well as home improvements and more. The McCormick Kidzone offers bouncy castles, fun games, a magician and more, all for free to those in Victoria Park. Ronald McDonald will be in attendance along with many other mascots, doing their best to entertain everyone. Also included for registrants, fresh post-race snacks from Farm Boy, a tree seedling presented by Bentley Hearing, in support of Reforest London, and a complimentary massage.

Even better, every runner gets

35 YEARS

one free slice of Domino’s pizza. When you cross that finish line, and get your 6” medal, you know you earned it. The London Life Forest City Road Races welcome all ages and abilities.

So, are you doin’ it?

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Fun runs and races on tap Submitted by Mountain Equipment Co-op

FREE Meetup Runs Trail Run Meetup (Sunday Mornings – 8:00am-9:00am) Meet us at Kains Woods for a casual trail run led by Coach Bill. This clinic is perfect for any level runner. We run 5-7.5k on some of London's best trails and enjoy the scenery all year long.

pace, and benefit from a fun group workout that challenges your cardiovascular system. (Starting April 2017) *All of our clinics are no drop run, so no runners get left behind. Rain or shine - we run in all conditions!

MEC.ca

What to expect for the 2017 Race Season We are very excited to announce the dates for the 2017 season. We will be hosting five races throughout London, with multiple distance options available in both trail and road.

Road Run Meetup – Focus on Speed Work (Thursday Nights – 6:30pm-7:30pm) Meet us for a casual track workout led

by Coach Bill. Perfect for anyone looking to find that competitive edge, and enhance their running performance and technique. Benefits of speed work include: enhanced ability to clear metabolite (lactic acid), elevated lactate threshold (run longer before feeling the burn), a great cardiovascular training stimulus, and improved endurance capabilities.

(Starting May 2017)

The MEC Race Series will feature five races throughout London in 2017, offering multiple distances and locations from March to October.

Road Run Meetup – Focus on Hill Work (Monday Nights – 6:00pm-7:00pm) Meet us for a fun and challenging workout led by Coach Mark. Participants are encouraged to work at their own RACE ONE 5K/10K/15K – Road Saturday, March 11, 2017 Springbank Park, London

RACE TWO 5K/10K/15K – Road 6K/12K – Trail Saturday, April 22, 2017 StoneyBrook, London

RACE THREE 5K/10K/Half/Full Marathon Saturday, May 27, 2017 Pottersburg Park, London

RACE FOUR 5K/10K/15K – Road 6K/12K/Half Marathon – Trail Saturday, September 9, 2017 Fanshawe Conservation, London

RACE FIVE 5K/10K/15K – Road 5K/10K – Trail Saturday, October 21, 2017 Gibbons Park, London

SIGN UP FOR ALL 5 RACES FOR JUST $75.

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sportsfiles

Junior B’s geared up for 2017 Submitted by London Minor Lacrosse Association When the London Blue Devils Junior B complement to the experience and leadthe Juniors a team opened their training camp in early ership currently in place within the Junior chance to give 2017, there was an elephant in the room B squad. back. It’s a – their 0-20 record last season. But rathTo help ensure that this player depth win-win situaer than let that elephant cast a shadow is in place, the Junior B organization contion, which is over the season to come, the team hit the tinues to host their annual Winter Skills something the Blue Devils look forward ground running. They are determined to Camp for the minor ranks. This series to doing a lot this season … Winning! climb up from the bottom of the Far West of offseason clinics serves to develop www.londonlacrosse.com division of the Ontario Junior B Lacrosse young players’ skills, and it also gives League, and the club has made several recent changes to help make that a reality.

In 2014, the Junior B organization was taken under the wing of the London Minor Lacrosse Association, whose Board opted to save the team from folding after their GM/Head Coach at the time walked away. Now, after several years of regrouping, the Junior Bs are once again ready to go it on their own. Current GM/ Head Coach Ron Elijah is now backed by an eager Board of Directors, specific to the club, meaning that there is more manpower to focus solely on the Junior team. A new sponsorship program is anticipated to breathe much-needed funds into the program, while a venue change (from Lambeth back to the team’s original home at Nichols arena) should increase game attendance and improve visibility within the City of London. New teamwear The London Blue Devils Jr B team had a busy offseason, which included hosting their annual Winter Skills Camp, where they had the chance to give back to the younger ranks by passing on their knowledge and skills. and game gear, meanwhile, is creating excitement amongst the players (because those in the lacrosse world know there’s nothing better than some sweet custom gloves and flashy helmet wraps to brighten the mood of lax players!).

The successful and growing London Minor Lacrosse competitive program will significantly improve roster numbers and player skill level in the years to come, starting this season when a strong group of graduating birth year 2000 players begin their Junior careers. These young, skilled players will be the perfect @SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

EBBA offers mix of returnees, new recruits Submitted by EBBA and photos by Stephanie Morton and Marta Antolini The Eager Beaver Baseball Association, the first organized youth sports league in London, has been introducing baseball to young players since 1955. The 2017

Codie Morton, shown here in his catcher’s gear, has been an EBBA player from age 3 to 22.

season is filling up quickly – from the Little Sluggers division (2012-2013) to the Junior division (1996-1998).

The Little Sluggers and T-Ball (20102011) divisions fill the diamonds at Mornington Park on Saturday mornings from May to July.

The Rookie (2008-2009), Mosquito (2006-2007), and PeeWee (2004-2005) divisions, meanwhile, fill Mornington Park weeknights for games and weekends for practices from May to mid-August.

And the Bantam (20022003), Midget (19992001), and Junior teams play at Kiwanis, Citywide and Labatt Park, along Roman Antolini, who was a first-year EBBA with other diamonds in player in 2016. and around the London

area.

Players new to the game of baseball, along with their experienced cohorts, are all welcome at EBBA, and receive the same level of instruction and playing time. Last season was the first baseball experience for Roman Antolini, and his year ended with him pitching in the division championship game for his PeeWee team. Meanwhile, the 2016 season was the 19th year of EBBA baseball for Cody Morton, who ended his EBBA career catching for his Junior team in the city championship game.

EBBA is a volunteer-run organization.

Final in-person registration is March 25. Online registration is already open.

For more information, please visit the league’s website at www.ebba.ca.

www.ebba.ca

Defending national champs

By Dan Haugh In only their third year of existence, the Fanshawe Falcons captured a National Championship.

Last fall, the Falcons defeated their OCAA rival, the St. Clair Saints, 2-1 in the Gold Medal game of the inaugural

National College Championships in Oshawa the weekend of Oct. 28-30.

“The kids played amazing all weekend long,” Fanshawe head coach Brian Harvey said after the tournament win. “They persevered, even when we were behind in the final championship game.”

The Falcons reached the final by shutting out the host Durham Lords, 5-0, on the strength of a complete game pitching performance

by Kyle Zimmer, who was named the tournament’s All-star left-handed pitcher.

St. Clair entered The Fanshawe Falcons won their first National Championship last fall, beating the St. Clair Saints 2-1 in the national the Gold Medal game.

Toronto Blue Jays

10

tournament on the heels of their fourth consecutive OCAA championship where it had defeated the Falcons in the Gold Medal game.

“I’m not sure it’s a rivalry, but we have always told our players, if you want to win a championship, you know it’s going to have to go through St. Clair,” said Harvey.

In the Gold Medal game, the Falcons relied on great defense and strong pitching to hold the Saints to their lowest run total of the season. St. Clair took an early 1-0 lead in the second inning on a wild pitch, but Fanshawe came back in the top of the third with a pair of runs on four hits to take a lead that they would hold to the end.

The Falcons used three pitchers, Bryan Hames, Tyler Rymal and Robert Doyle, to shut down the Saints’ offence over the next five innings on just four hits.

Fanshawe’s Brian Hames was named tournament MVP.

www.fanshawec.ca/athletics

Road Trips vs.

New York Yankees

Back to ball!

By Rob Jamieson for LDBA Baseball and photo by Becky Collins Baseball is back on the brains of In 2017, London will welcome teams thousands of kids across London and the from across Ontario to compete in surrounding area. Athletes representing both the Minor PeeWee ‘A’ and Minor Also includes Aylmer, Delaware-Komoka-Mt Brydges, the London District Baseball Association Mosquito ‘A’ provincial championships, Dorchester, Exeter, Lucan-Ilderton, Ingersoll, Mitchell, (LDBA) flooded our diamonds and harwhich will be hosted by the London West Sarnia, Strathroy, Tillsonburg, and Wyoming nessed their skill across levels ranging Tincaps and North London Nationals, Mike Lumley as rostered players for the from Rookie to Senior in 2016, while respectively. The London Badgers will Western Mustangs. Another Badger, competing against teams from across play host to the 2017 18U National Hayden Regnier, joined the Fanshawe Ontario, Canada and the USA. Our Championships at Labatt Park. St. Falcons alongside Robert Doyle (London summer pastime has seen tremendous Thomas was also awarded the 2018 21U Tecumsehs). Doyle was named OCAA growth in recent years, and we expect National championships, where teams Rookie of the Year, and both were part of this trend to continue in 2017. Baseball from across the country will get a look at the 2016 OCAA National Championship is Back! the much-anticipated brand new Cardinal team. Daniel Lichty of the London Teams from across the LDBA were front Field. Both the 12U Minor PeeWee Badgers was awarded a scholarship to and centre at both the provincial and London Tecumsehs and the London Huntington University in Indiana, while national level in 2016. Provincially, the West Tincaps will be participating in a Travis Keys, also of the Badgers, signed London West Tincaps represented LDBA week-long international tournament in with the Lake Michigan Red Hawks. Great in the Minor Rookie ‘AA’ championships Cooperstown, New York this summer, job boys! and brought home the gold medal with while the London West Tincaps take their With warmer weather on the way, most class and style. Likewise, the St. Thomas 14U team to Cuba to play against some organizations are currently holding their Cardinals dominated the Rookie Division of the best kids in the world at their age registrations for 2017. If you interat the ‘AA’ level and earned a well-degroup. ested in registering, please go to www. served championship. Not to be outdone, Much success was had individually ldbabaseball.ca/Links and click on your the London Badgers were successful by present and former LDBA athletes home organization’s link. If you are not in capturing Gold in the Major PeeWee in 2016 as well. Matt Brooks of the sure which home associate you belong ‘AAA’ championship, adding yet another St. Thomas Cardinals joined the St. to, please use our boundary search for trophy to the shelf at the Batters Box. Clair Saints, where he served as one clarification (www.ldbabaseball.ca/ The London Tecumsehs represented of their catchers. Colton Phibbs (St. Pages/1190/Boundaries). admirably, earning an unprecedented Thomas Cardinals) and Alex Lamont Let’s Play Ball! five silver medals in one year across all (London Badgers) both joined coach www.ldbabaseball.ca divisions, which speaks to the quality of their baseball program. Silver medals were also won by the St. Thomas Tomcats ‘AAA’ Junior team, as well as the Ilderton A’s Midget ‘A’ team. Nationally, the St. Thomas Tomcats were finalists at Eliminations, as were the Strathroy Royal at the Senior Nationals. For the third straight year, the host London Badgers 13U PeeWee team showed the country why the Badger program is considered one of the elite baseball programs in the country by bringing home the 2016 LDBA Major Mosquito Playoff Champions – London Tecumsehs. Back Row (left to right): Rob Jamieson, Bob Picken, Jayden Collins, Nigel Mason, Brady David, Jay David, Denny Cabral. bronze.

Middle Row: Leland Gooder, Eric Picken, Jonny Bauer, Lucas Sears, Tyler Cabral, Logan Merritt. Front Row: Luke Millar, Landyn Jamieson, Blake Conners

Boston Red Sox

and more...

See page 34 for details

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sportsfiles

Enhancing the soccer experience Submitted by Byron Soccer At Byron Soccer, our youngest and most excited players will be well-supported this season with a comprehensive curriculum appropriate for their physical, emotional and mental stage.

Think of it like our education system.

We don't expect our kindergartners to understand Grade 10 chemistry, right? This means playing on the right sized fields, and lots of fun drills and games that challenge the players in their proper stage of development.

It also means that we’re able to work in some flexibility. Everyone will be wearing Byron Green this year, but will have different numbers. If there is a player who

needs to be challenged more, perhaps they might like to play up an age group for a couple of sessions. Or, if game time comes and a coach doesn't have enough players (because, well, summer happens), we can mix and match. As well, even though we don’t accept requests, we will have some flexibility to possibly let players play with one or two friends.

While it will be business as usual for our U4 to U6 group, players in U8 will notice a big change in the size of field they’ll be playing on. As per the OSA's rules, and in line with the local Development/ Competitive League, U8 will be playing on 5v5 fields on Saturday mornings. This

“It is our objective to make the game of soccer exciting and fun for all our players.”

gives our U8 players some exciting opportunities to be called up (there are no scores and standings in Competitive until U13), or to possibly sign up to play some local festivals (i.e. against other clubs).

It is our objective to make the game of soccer exciting and fun for all our players. We hope that the few changes to the program this season will not only help our players develop their skills, but also further their love of the sport so that they’re hooked for life (because we do have some adult programs as well!).

www.byronsoccer.ca

Acura West 759 Wonderland Road North, London • 519-657-1557 • acurawest.ca 12

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LondonSportsXpress

Our House League/Recreation Season is open for registration online!

As a soccer learning centre, we are fully committed to the Long-Term Player Development pathway.

Season runs mid-May through mid-August. Further details online at www.norwestsoccer.com Fees After Mar 15

Age Group Year of Birth

Stage of Long-Term Player Development

Intended Play Nights

Fees Feb 1-Mar 15

Under 4 2013

Active Start (choose East or West)

Saturdays - 9AM

$110 - Uniform + Ball

Under 5 2012

Active Start (choose East or West)

Saturdays - 10AM

$110 - Uniform + Ball

$135 - Uniform + Ball

Under 6 2011

Active Start

Saturdays - 11AM

$145 - Uniform + Ball

$175 - Uniform + Ball

Under 7 2010

FUNdamentals 5 v. 5

Mon/Wed Boys - 6PM / Girls – 7PM

$175 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

$200 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

Under 8 2009

FUNdamentals 5 v. 5

Tues/Thurs Boys - 6PM / Girls - 7PM

$175 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

$200 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

Under 9 2008

Learn to Train 7 v. 7

Mon/Wed Boys –- 6PM / Girls - 7:15PM

$175 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

$200 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

Under 10 2007

Learn to Train 7 v. 7

Tues/Thurs Boys - 6PM / Girls - 7:15PM

$175 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

$200 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

Under 11 2006

Learn to Train 9 v. 9

Mon/Wed Boys - 6PM / Girls - 7:15PM

$175 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

$200 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

Under 12 2005

Learn to Train 9 v. 9

Tues/Thurs Boys - 6PM / Girls - 7:15PM

$175 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

$200 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

Under 14 2003-2004

Soccer for Life 11 v. 11

Mon/Wed Boys - 6PM / Girls - 7:15PM

$175 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

$200 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

Under 16 2001-2002

Soccer for Life 11 v. 11

Tues/Thurs Boys - 6PM / Girls - 7:15PM

$175 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

$200 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

Under 18 1999-2000

Soccer for Life 11 v. 11

Games only Sun. 6PM/8PM - Premium Fields

$175 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

$200 Includes jersey, shorts & socks

(upon availability)

Registration open online: www.norwestsoccer.com

MPDBUJPOT UP TFSWF ZPV JO 4PVUIXFTUFSO 0OUBSJP @SportsXpressLON

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teamprofiles

Coaching changes on the pitch Submitted by FC LONDON To fill their coaching vacancy, FC LONDON has again reached across the Atlantic, acquiring the services of Domagoj “Dom” Kosic, a certified UEFA “A” coach who will be taking on the role of Technical Director as well as coaching the Men’s League1 and OSL U21 teams. Mario Despotovic, who coached the League 1 Ontario squad to a 15-52 record last season, has accepted a full-time professional position as the U-19 coach of Croatian First Division club Hajduk Split.

“We’re excited that we’re not only creating opportunities for players, but we’re creating them for coaches too,” said FC LONDON CEO Ian Campbell upon

Domagoj “Dom” Kosic will be taking over the role of Technical Director and head coach of the FC LONDON’s Men’s League1 and OSL U21 teams this season.

14

London.SportsXpress.ca

announcing his new coach for the 2017 League1 season.

Kosic, who is a big believer in a playing style similar to Despotovic, will continue promoting the ‘periodization model,’ which was adopted by FC LONDON in 2016 and proved successful in bringing home hardware at both the team and individual level during the club’s inaugural year in League1.

Beyond his training in various Croatian top clubs, Kosic was educated in Amsterdam with coaching icon Raymond Verheijen. With FC LONDON, his responsibilities will also extend to that of a supervisor for the roster of young coaches involved in the affiliated FC LONDON Academy program (for boys and girls aged 8-17).

Despotovic, who has earned an 18-month contract with Hajduk Split, sees it as a stepping stone to his goal of being a Head Coach with a top European club. He notes that his time in League1 Ontario gave him the experience to take his coaching career to the next level.

“I think League1 was an amazing learning experience for me,” Despotovic said.

“It’s a top-quality league, and coming to a different culture and building a team with senior players was something I did not do before.”

Mario will continue his role as a

LondonSportsXpress

Technical Advisor to the FC LONDON coaching staff.

“Using technology, we can communicate with screen sharing, video analysis and conference meetings from anywhere in the world,” he said. “We’ll continue to learn and educate coaches in Canada as they look to improve their football teaching abilities.”

Michael Marcoccia will remain as the coach of the Women’s League1 team and the U21 women’s team, which is new this year. Marcoccia was named ‘Coach of the Year’ in Women’s League1 last year.

Meanwhile, with the start of the season on the horizon, FC LONDON has secured Under Armour as their equipment and team gear sponsor for the season.

“Recognized worldwide, the UA brand is one that resonates well both on and off the field,” said Campbell. “We’re thrilled to have them involved.”

www.fclondon.ca

@SportsXpressLON

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15

sportsfiles

Summer soccer season ahead!

Submitted by Little Kickers London With the weather finally warming up after a long, long winter, Little Kickers London is pumped about once again moving outdoors for its second summer season. Little Kickers’ indoor classes will continue until mid-May when additional classes and locations will be opening for the summer.

The comfortable confines of local elementary school gyms have been wonderful winter venues, but nothing can compare to the outdoor summer soccer season in Canada. Summer enrollment for the Little Kickers program began in early March, but it will continue until all spots have been filled in all classes.

Little Kickers is the world's largest preschool soccer academy, with a network

of over 1,500 coaches in 21 different countries. The Little Kickers program originated in London, England back in 2002. Their classes have been designed so that in addition to receiving a sound basic instruction in soccer from qualified coaches, children are also provided with a fun, positive introduction to sport. ‘Learning Through Play’ is the core premise of what Little Kickers is all about.

Little Kickers London offers four different classes, tailored specifically to the needs of children between 18 months and 7 years of age.

Since the program runs year-round, children may sign up at any time, as long as there is an available spot in an appropriate class. For more information about Little Kickers, or to enroll your Little Kicker, please visit www.littlekickers.ca or call 226-980-8909.

www.littlekickers.ca

After months spent indoors, Little Kickers London is excited to get outdoors for its second summer season!

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Stress-free soccer!

Contributions by Jen McGrenere and photos by Genoa Moxley Its mission is to bring out the best in a week, and all our games kids, and the Carling Heights Optimist are on the same day and Club does exactly that through its Miniat the same place. There’s Soccer program by providing a fun and nothing better than sitting enjoyable experience for young kids to in the late afternoon sun learn and play the game. watching your kids play a great sport.�

The program, which has been running McGrenere has been involved in soccer since 1978, operates out of the soccer with Carling Heights for 15 years. She fields (three mini pitches) at 83 Elliott coached for two years before stepping Street (the Carling Heights Optimist into her dual role of coach and convenor.

Club), behind Carling Arena. The group She is joined by a league Executive that offers a non-competitive soccer league consists of four members of the Carling for children aged 4 to 10. This year, Heights Optimist Centre. The league also they’re hoping to add another division – welcomes several high school student for kids aged 10 to 12 playing a 4-on-4 volunteers who assist on game days. format).

It’s stress-free soccer, and it’s sure A regular season consists of 12 teams to provide many youngsters with great divided into two age groups (4 to 6 and memories again this summer.

7 to 10). Each team has two volunteer parents as coaches who help to teach the kids the fundamentals of soccer and teamwork. It’s a laid-back league focused on fun. “I once had a mother describe our league as playing in grandma’s backyard with your friends,� said Jen McGrenere, the league’s convenor. “I like that description. We practice once a week and play once Carling Heights Optimist Mini-Soccer offers the chance for children to play in a non-competitive soccer league and have a lot of fun!

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BMO expansion on the way Submitted by BMO Centre and photo by Greg Matthison The Board of Directors, along with the management and staff of the London Optimist Sports Centre, which owns and operates the BMO Centre in London, are excited to announce that construction of two new additional fields will begin this spring. The 110,000 square foot BMO Centre, located at 295 Rectory Street, will be adding another 65,000 square feet, which will make it one of the largest – if not the largest – indoor sports complex

in the country.

The Centre, which opened its doors in 2011, has become one of the hottest sports destinations in London and surrounding area. Whether you are 2 or 82, ‘The Beemo,’ has provided a safe and clean sports venue for all ages, and a home for a variety of different sporting activities.

From the day the BMO Centre opened, the demand for playing fields has been

Left to right: Tim Gatten, Community Relations Manager, London Optimist Sports Centre (LOSC), Bob Ranick, Financial Consultant, LOSC, Tom Partalas, President, LOSC, Fred Benenati, Treasurer, LOSC, Simon Karahalios, Operations Manager, LOSC, Ian Cheng, Vice President, LOSC, and Reinhardt Schmiedt, Volunteer Coach, LOSC

www.customrockcreations.ca 519-652-8811 t 258 Exeter Road, London ON N6L 1A3

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high, and the only way to meet this ever growing demand was by keeping the old ‘Dome’ on Cuddy Blvd operational. The LOSC and the City of London entered into a leasing agreement that has kept the old Dome alive, but with the passage of time, the day has come when the Dome needs to be shut down. The LOSC believes that with the addition of two new fields, the newly expanded BMO Centre will help offset the loss of the fields on Cuddy, creating a hub for indoor sports, all at one location.

A ground-breaking ceremony is being planned for late March, and everyone is welcome to attend. The LOSC has always been community focused and volunteer driven. They would like the community to celebrate with them as they begin another chapter in their continued vision to provide Londoners, and in particular the youth of London, with a fabulous recreational facility.

The theme of the ground-breaking ceremony is ‘Come and be part of London’s history.’ The BMO Centre is truly one of London’s most cherished treasures, and this expansion will undoubtedly take this facility to another level.

www.bmocentrelondon.com

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Continental Cup is coming

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By Peter Inch, for Curling Canada and photos by Jake MacDonald and Greg Matthison Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an awesome time for the sport of curling in London, and I was happy to announce recently, on behalf of Curling Canada and its Board of Governors, that the Sports Centre at Western Fair District will host the 2018 World Financial Group Continental Cup! A lot of hard work goes into putting together a winning bid for the World Financial Group Continental Cup, and that was certainly the case in London, and many individuals and organizations deserve acknowledgement for making this happen.

World Financial Group took on title sponsorship of the Continental Cup in 2011, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no coincidence that the event has risen to new heights ever since.

They are incredibly supportive of this

Peter Inch of Curling Canada announces that the 2018 Continental Cup will be hosted in London

event, and their commitment to our sport speaks volumes. We look forward to many more years of working together.

Events like the World Financial Group Continental Cup bring in huge exposure for their host cities through the TSN broadcasts. There are 28 guaranteed hours of coast-to-coast television coverage during the Continental Cup; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we see groups like Tourism London, as well as our friends in the Ontario government and the government of Canada, being such enthusiastic supporters. Our sincere thanks to Cheryl Finn, the Director of Sport Tourism for Tourism London, for all her hard work.

Curling Canada continues to work with our partners at the Ontario Curling Association to keep building our amazing sport, not just in the province of Ontario,

but across the country. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to thank OCA Executive Director Steve Chenier for his valuable contributions.

Our heartfelt thanks to Western Fair District Chief Executive Officer Hugh Mitchell for all the work he and has team are doing for this event. Also, thank you to the London Nationals for allowing us to use their home ice for a few days!

As for the London bid committee, I know from my past experiences with major curling events in this city, like the 2011 Tim Hortons Brier and the 2006 Scotties, we have an amazing, hardworking group of men and women who pour their heart and souls into putting on first-class events, and I know the 2018 World Financial Group Continental Cup will be no exception. Ted Smith and his committee are already hard at work, and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll put on a great show next year.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see you in 2018!

Ted Smith, Cheryl Finn and Peter Inch

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sportsfiles

Local Accessible Sports News

Accessible Partners

Submitted by London Wheelchair Basketball Association and London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby

London Wheelchair Basketball Association From the moment that Josh Davies got on the court 13 years ago, he fell in love with the game of wheelchair basketball. The 23-year-old began to play with the London Wheelchair Basketball Association’s junior program, where he developed his skills and passion for the game under the watchful eye of London’s head coach Paul Bowes, who is also a distinguished international coach.

It took three years for Davies to break onto the provincial stage. The London native compiled multiple medals at both the Ontario Games and Parasport Winter Games. In 2011, he was selected to represent Ontario at the Canada winter games in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Davies’ success at the provincial level propelled him to opportunities with Team Canada.

In 2013, he was named an alternate on Canada’s world junior team, and he even competed with the Senior Men’s National team in Belgium. In 2015, Davies competed in his second Canada Winter Games in Price George, BC. Since then, he has

taken a step back from competitive great game of wheelchair basketball. It basketball to focus on his education. He has provided me with so many unparalwill graduate from Western University’s leled opportunities to learn and grow as Kinesiology program in May 2017. an individual.”

During his busy playing career, Davies Davies also holds an assistant coachmade sure to take time to give back to the ing position with the junior Ontario program that started him on his jourprogram, and he has aspirations to coach ney, volunteering with London’s junior at the 2019 Canada Winter Games in Red program. It was during his time volunDeer, Alberta. teering that Davies realized his interest www.lwba.ca in coaching. And with the help of coach Paul Bowes, Davies became more involved. Now, he is coaching the junior program every week.

“I’m very grateful to have such a talented and respected coach to learn from,” Davies said of Bowes’ mentorship. “And I first got on the court with the London Wheelchair Basketball Association 13 years am humbled by the Josh Davies, 23, ago. Today, he’s an accomplished player and a rising coach in the sport.

London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby The London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby program has had a busy winter, traveling to Tampa, Florida and to Phoenix, Arizona. The program sent a team to compete in the Tampa Wheelchair Rugby Invitational in late January, which was comprised of Jamie Sopha, Decorated Paralympian and London Matt Debly, Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby Shayne Smith, player Dave Willsie

Ian Crowe, Faisal Burale, Erika Schmutz, Eric Rodriguez, and Dave Willsie. The Annihilators played well, losing two games by one point, including an overtime loss to Quebec's ‘A’ wheelchair rugby squad. Team leader Dave Willsie collected top 1.5 honours.

While in Phoenix, the Annihilators, comprised of Garrett Hickling, Matt Debly, Cody Caldwell, Dave Willsie, Patrice Simard, Patrice Dagenais, and Kristen Cameron, competed hard against some top American rugby programs. The Annihilators dropped their first two games against two different top-ranked Phoenix Heat teams. They won their next two games in fine fashion, before dropping their fifth and final game to a team from

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Portland, Oregon. Rookie Matt Debly saw some serious time on the floor in Phoenix, while Patrice Simard collected tournament best 1.5. The Annihilators await their return to both Tampa and Phoenix next year to pick up where they left off and improve on their finishes.

Looking ahead, seven members of The Annihilators will travel to Vancouver, British Columbia to display their best as they try for a spot on Canada's national wheelchair rugby squad. Program veteran and four-time Paralympian Dave Willsie will hang up his gloves from international play and try his hand at coaching as he enters his first season as assistant coach for Canada's national program.

sportsfiles

Rewards of rock climbing plentiful Submitted by Junction Climbing Centre Anyone who has watched American Ninja Warrior has seen how fit and strong rock climbers can be. Their lean, efficient, and precise physiques are a powerful asset, as a single misstep or missed grip means failure (and a watery splashdown). At the Junction, we see athletes of all levels make climbing part of their regular workout to provide an alternative to traditional training.

Some of the benefits to cross training with climbing include: t Increased core strength – Loosely defined as the muscle groups from below your shoulders to your waist, your core provides strength and structure.

Climbers are consistently engaging core muscles to maintain correct posture on the wall. Disengage your core and you get the real-world consequence of coming off the wall. This translates well to power sports, such as weightlifting, or to sports like golf and tennis where a strong core

contributes to rotational force. t Forearms and hand strength – It's no surprise that climbers develop strong hands. That same strength turns into enhanced power when taking shots in basketball or hockey. One key when training in this area is not to overwork – take advantage of repetition training on easier climbs to build up the muscles slowly and without injury. t Flexibility – The greater your range of motion, the greater your options for finding balance. Climbing demands constant contortion to new positions.

This flexibility is essential to gymnastics or cheerleading, and also sports like football where avoiding your opponent is a vital skill. t Fun – Climbing is never the same twice. Each different climb requires different muscles and different movement.

This maintains a sense of new challenge and problem solving. Over the months

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of training, a sense of routine can dull our enjoyment. Taking a few weeks out to train in other environments can give a break from routine that invigorates without setting back a training plan.

www.junctionclimbing.com

At the Junction, athletes are making climbing part of their regular workout routine to help in other sports – and to have fun!

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sportsfiles

Cheering across the province Submitted by Power Cheer Gym The Viper competition season kicked off with a bang in January, as six teams took the floor in St. Catharines at Cheer Evolution’s Winterfest. Amped and Surge took home top honours in the Youth 2 and Senior 4 divisions, respectively. Both were also Grand Champions for their respective level, beating the top teams across all age ranges.

Thrill, our Youth 1 team, finished second in their highly competitive division.

For the majority of the athletes on this team, it was their first time ever competing. Fury (Jr 1) and Adrenaline (Jr 3) were in tough and came home with 3rd and 4th place finishes, respectively. PCG’s

Special Needs team also rocked the floor alongside our sister gym, Power Cheer Toronto’s Special Needs team.

The competition season rolls full steam ahead until mid-April, and Viper teams will be competing in Brampton, Kitchener, Barrie, Orlando, Florida and at Nationals in Niagara Falls.

At approximately 10,000 square feet, Power Cheer Gym offers high ceilings, rumbling sound systems, and video playback systems. There are two stand-alone sprung competition floors, tumble track, trampoline, large lobby, and an amazing parents loft that overlooks the gym floor.

And, of course, free WiFi.

Hannah, letting out her inner Diva!

London.SportsXpress.ca

www.powercheergym.com pcgvipers

@PCGVipers

The girls of Adrenaline hitting their pyramid at Winterfest.

Members of Surge and their coaches celebrate their victory.

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The PCG can boast that it is the only gym in Southwestern Ontario that has coaches who have been members of Team Canada and won World Championships. Are you interested in training with some of the best in the country and joining a Viper team for the 2017 season? Viper teams start at 5 years of age Mini (5-8), and run up through Youth (7-11), Junior (11-14), and Senior (12-18). Call to arrange a meeting with one of our fully certified, fun and friendly coaches. 519-667-0565 or E-mail: pcg@powercheergym.com.

LondonSportsXpress

Kianna from Thrill, all smiles.

Proudly supported by

Transporting cheer Contributions by Coach Trace and photo by Joanna Swirski When Power Cheer Gym (PCG) sends its athletes to competitions, near and far, they do so by passenger van. And Bennett Fleet Rentals is the company they call. In fact, PCG has been using Bennett’s 15-passenger vans for years, transporting athletes to and from events – often returning with a van filled with cheerleading medals from various competitions across the province and

beyond.

“We’ve always been happy with the vans that Bennett provides us, and with the level of service and customer care that the company provides,” said Coach Trace, the owner of Power Cheer Gym. “We like traveling by bus because it saves on gas, and ultimately it means fewer worries with the team together rather than in multiple vehicles on the

Nigel McIntyre, Marc Chin, Seth Marriott, Annalise Bruton, Laura Gillies, Taylor Athay, Jackie Viewager, Max Pfeiffer, Shelden Fickling

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road.”

Bennett Fleet Rentals is small but ‘mighty,’ and the company prides itself on providing exceptional customer service. Their fleet, which the company boasts as the “best fleet in town,” consists of over 100 vehicles, ranging from moving trucks, pick up trucks, small landscaping dumps, large suv’s, mini vans, cars, wheel chair accessible vans, and large passenger vans (up to 15 compacity). It is the latter that is best suited for sports teams and organizations transporting a small group of their athletes to and from competitions and venues. Many teams and groups in London and surrounding area rely on Bennett, including the highly successful Power Cheer Gym. “Bennett has always come through when needed, whether it’s been a late drop-off or a custom pickup,” said Coach Trace. “They’re always on time, the vehicles are always clean and well-maintained. And they’re nice, new vans too. We really couldn’t ask for more, and we’re thrilled to continue this great partnership with Bennett for years to come.”

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sportsfiles

Being a Royal

By Grace Howes Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved gymnastics. When I got a little older, a

Grace competing with CheerStrike in 2016

friend of mine introduced me to cheerleading, a sport that combines gymnastics and teamwork. A new gym called Cheerstrike Royals opened up in my neighborhood, and I decided to try it out.

I immediately loved it! I instantly made a new group of friends who were learning new flips and tricks along with me.

As a team, we learned dance moves, and lifts and stunts, all while having so much fun! I was lucky enough to be trained as a ‘flyer’ – one of the girls who pulls flexibility moves high up in the air.

Our coaches made sure that we were safe, helping my teammates learn how to toss AND CATCH me safely!

Here I am now, four years later, still loving my Royal Family! With hard work and lots of practice, I am a level 3 cheerleader on an amazing team. My coaches are constantly pushing me to develop new skills and become my best. Each practice is a mixture of difficulty and

Grace shows off a winning medal during her first year as a Royal in 2013

fun! At competitions, we bond as a team, cheering on other age groups and levels in our Royal Family. It’s awesome seeing our hard work pay off at awards time. Our gym is decorated from wall to wall with trophies and banners reminding us of our victories.

The Cheerstrike Royals’ motto is “building character, creating champions.”

I feel lucky to have found a sport that combines all of my favourite things!

www.cheerstrikeroyals.com

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Provincial program reaches podium Submitted by London Gymnastics Academy Congratulations to Alena Beniamin and Helene Bouffard of London Gymnastics Academy's Provincial programs! These hardworking athletes qualified in the Top 8 All Around Tour Selection competition to go on and represent Team Ontario on January 11-18, 2017 at the Lady Luck Invitational Tour Competition in Las Vegas, Nevada. LGA and Team Ontario had several outstanding performances and finishes. We are so proud of Alena (Level 9) for placing 1st All-Around, and Helene (Level 7) for placing 7th AllAround. Team Ontario rocked the house with the Level 7 Team taking home the 1st Place Team Title, and the Level 9 Team coming in as the 2nd highest scoring team! We are so proud of them!

Additionally, London Gymnastics Academy will be represented at Canada's

National Competition! Two of LGA's National Level athletes, Bailey Inglis (age 11) and Chloe Burridge (age 13), the only High Performance National Level gymnasts in all of London, Ontario, stepped up and hit the mark at the prestigious Elite Canada competition held February 2-5 in Halifax, NS. Elite Canada is one of the primary national competitions which brings together the top National Level athletes from across Canada from the Novice, Junior and Senior age categories. In Women's Artistic Gymnastics (WAG), gymnasts in each category compete to seek qualification for High Performance status, which gives them the right to compete at the Canadian Championships!

With Inglis placing 4th All Around and Burridge placing 18th All Around in the Novice category, both of these hardworking athletes have earned High Performance Status and qualified for National Championships on May 23-28 in MontrĂŠal, QB. Congratulations to Bailey and Chloe. We wish these girls the very best in the coming months as they prepare for Championships!

We are excited to announce that this May the London Heat Flash team (Youth Level 3 Ages 11 and under) will represent London Heat programs in Florida at The All-Star Cheerleading Summit! These athletes have worked very hard to receive a bid to this prestigious competition. Only five percent of all teams in North America are honoured with this opportunity!

At their recent competitions in Buffalo and Detroit, London Heat teams brought home seven Grand Championships! We are excited to build off this momentum and work to improve our scores throughout the coming months!

London Heat Cheerleading is always expanding and striving to succeed. If you are interested in competitive cheerleading, tryouts will be held in May for the 2017-2018 competition season!

londongymnasticsacademy.com

Helene Bouffard (left) and Alena Beniamin

Chloe Burridge (left) and Bailey Inglis

London Heat is making the climb to Summit!

In May, the London Heat Flash team (Youth Level 3 Ages 11 & under) will travel to Florida to compete at the All-Star Cheerleading Summit!

@SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

Celebrating 10 years and Miss Erin!

Submitted by The Little Gym of London We have lots to celebrate at The Little Gym! Having been around for over 10 years now, we like to keep in touch with many of our former members who spent a long time with us and have since ‘graduated’ on to different life adventures.

Performing a ‘candlestick’

We are SO proud of many of them on so many levels. There are kids who are now competitive gymnasts, cheerleaders, divers, or dancers. One has even gone on to join the circus! Kids who play hockey, fence, and play soccer! Kids that have gone on to acting and singing, and others who are academically ahead of their peers.

Each one has their own story, and many of those stories started at The Little Gym! That’s why we consider ourselves the SPRINGBOARD TO LIFE’S ADVENTURES. This is the place to start.

Our goal is to help your child discover that they CAN do anything they set their mind to. Teaching them how to listen and follow directions, and take and apply feedback to get better and feel good about their capabilities. Socially work together in a team, and as individuals

London.SportsXpress.ca

contributing to the team. Emotionally handle the setbacks and bounce back to try again and again. That’s what life is all about! Whether it’s at school, at work, or on a team.

We are also celebrating Miss Erin in April! She started with us in 2007, and she has been a big part of these kids’ lives for the last 10 years! She has been hands on in teaching many, many of our students over the years and helping them become confident adolescents. As the gym director, she also trains our awesome instructors to deliver the programs to your kids and maintain the high quality that you’ve come to expect. Please help us celebrate Miss Erin this month by sending her a note on our Facebook page!

(Search ‘The Little Gym of London’).

www.tlglondoncan.com

Miss Erin!

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Miss Erin with the founder and director of curriculum

LondonSportsXpress

sportsfiles

Summer at a glance

By Richelle Hirlehey for Dance Extreme Dance Extreme offers lots of opportunities for seasoned dancers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both young and old. During the months of July and August, the studio hosts four fabulous Dance Intensive programs.

Dance Extreme Triple Threat offers a new one-week intensive, which is designed for dancers who also have a desire to experience musical theatre at its finest. The focus of this intensive is for each student to prepare and present a personal monologue and song â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in addition to learning group choreography and vocals. Triple Threat offers those dancers who have other talents an avenue to pursue these in front of a live audience.

The beginning of August brings the ar-

rival of our En Pointe Ballet Intensive. For those students who are looking for immersion in the world of ballet, this is the intensive for you. The week is complete with ballet technique, repertoire, contemporary modern, yoga, and stretch classes taught by professionals in the field.

Later in August, dancers can expect a creative arts experience at the Choreographic and Jr. Choreographic Intensives. Dancers are challenged, as they learn about the basic elements of dance and how these tools are used to create choreography. This week-long intensive also teaches about elements of dance production, and culminates in a showcase of student-choreographed

works.

And last but not least, as we absorb the last long warm August nights at the tail end of summer, our four-day â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Back to Danceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and Young Dancer's â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Back to Danceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Intensives take place. Guest teachers provide a fabulous learning experience for all dancers (in a variety of dance disciplines), and work to get dancers back into shape for the upcoming season.

For more details about any of our Intensives, please visit: www.danceextreme.com/camp

www.danceextreme.com

Summer is busy at Dance Extreme, as four Dance Intensives are held for dancers in a variety of disciplines, and students learn from talented guest teachers.

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Bentley Hearing recognizes Sporting Seniors Featured Organization: Horton Street Seniors’ Centre

A good place to be Contributions by Shelley Wood and photo by Greg Matthison The Horton Street Seniors’ Centre, a recreation facility for adults 55 years and older, operates under the Boys & Girls Club (BGC) of London. The BGC supports the Centre administratively, all departments work together, and they share a staff and a building. They even share the same motto: ‘A Good Place to Be.’ And that’s certainly the case for the roughly 1,500 members who enjoy the Centre and take part in the many activities offered throughout the week.

All members of the Horton Street Seniors’ Centre are entitled to access classes, the pool, and the fitness room.

On average, about 200 people take part in exercise classes each week. The fully equipped fitness room has more than 60 visits per day, which works out to 11,000 visits annually.

Of the more than 50 programs, what are the most popular activities for the users of the Centre? That would include the pool and the fitness room, classes

‘Get Fit,’ ‘Seated,’ Tai Chi, Yoga and Zumba, as well as Volleyball and Bingo Cards.

Perhaps the best aspect about the Horton Street Seniors’ Centre? It’s affordable. Membership is based on income (and starts as low as $70 per year). Meanwhile, the Centre offers a door-to-door transportation service that members can purchase and arrange on-site. Much of the programming is made possible by funding from

the City of London, the United Way, and the Ontario Seniors Secretariat, among other grants.

Besides regular programming, which is offered Monday to Friday from 7am to 3pm, the Centre offers several special events, field trips, lunches, health fairs, and other educational opportunities.

It’s all geared towards an active and healthy lifestyle for those aged 55 and up. In other words, it really is ‘A Good Place to Be.’

A Get Fit class at the Horton Street Seniors’ Centre, which boasts roughly 1,500 members and is located in the Boys & Girls Club of London building.

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sportsfiles

Active winter for Senior athletes

By Kim Benke, for London Senior Games and photo by London Senior Games The Ontario Senior Games were held in Cobourg in February, and London sent a full contingent of athletes (all over 55) to compete in Alpine Skiing, Badminton, Curling, Hockey, Prediction Skating, Table Tennis and Volleyball. Stay tuned to the next issue of SportXpress for full results!

In 2015, we had 10 athletes win medals in their respective sports, including three volleyball teams that won Gold.

In December, Squash was graciously hosted by the Central YMCA. Patrick Ambrogio won Gold in M55, while Doug Kidd took the M65 Gold. Hopefully next year some female players will join

us. Meanwhile, the Chartwell Retirement Residence on Riverside offered their lovely library for our annual Wii Bowling tournament, where Rob and Hubert won Gold, and Chartwell residents – including Claudia & Gladys and Edna & Jean – joined in on the fun.

In April, we will start registration for the London District Summer Games. The summer schedule generally includes 20+ events, including: Cribbage, Euchre,

5 Pin Bowling, Carpet Bowling, Golf, Horseshoes, Darts and more! Winners from most of these District events qualify for the Southwest Regional Games (to be held this year on August 16 in Sarnia/ Lambton). See website more more information. If you are interested in volunteering at events call Mitch Lupa 519 453 1566.

www.londonseniorgames.com

London Senior Games athletes in Badminton and Squash.

Progress is intense.

Introducing the all-new Audi A4.

The all-new Audi A4

Form, function and innovation you can feel. The all-new Audi A4 offers our most progressive technology yet, including an available driver-focused virtual cockpit, Bang & Olufsen® 3D Sound, and LED headlights. Book a test drive today to experience it for yourself.

Starting from

$45,584

*

audi.ca/A4

Audi London

475 Wharncliffe Rd S

London

519 963 2834

Audilondon.com

©2016 Audi Canada. *Base MSRP of a new and unregistered 2017 Audi A4 2.0 TFSI quattro Komfort S tronic is $45,822, including $2,095 freight and PDI, $10 OMVIC fee, $22 EHF (tires), $100 a/c levy and $395 dealer admin fee. License, insurance, registration, options, and applicable taxes are extra. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell or lease for less. European model shown with features that may be available on the Canadian model. Vehicles shown for illustration purposes only. “Bang & Olufsen” is a registered trademark of Bang & Olufsen A/S. “Audi”, “A4”, “Vorsprung durch Technik”, and the four rings emblem are trademarks of AUDI AG registered in Canada. To find out more about Audi, visit your Audi dealer, call 1-800-FOR-AUDI, or visit us at www.audi.ca.

@SportsXpressLON

London.SportsXpress.ca

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sportsfiles

Adult Summer Sports!

Submitted by Connect Sports London Registration Is Now Open: Leagues Begin May 17!

Turf Soccer t t t t t

Wednesday & Thursday Night Leagues 13 Weeks 7 on 7 Co-ed League 60-minute games Individual or Team Registration

Turf Flag Football t t t t t

Wednesday League 13 Weeks 7 on 7 Co-ed League 90-minute games Individual or Team Registration

All Leagues take place at Western University.

Sports sell out quick, so be sure to sign up early!

Register at

www.connectsportslondon.com

City of London Municipal Golf 2017 courses 5great

at affordable prices.

The City of London Municipal Golf System consists of five great golf courses at three facilities. Thames Valley, Fanshawe and River Road Golf Course. All sites offer a fully stocked pro shop, food and beverage services as well as member and private tournaments.

Golfers have the option to pay guest fees as they play or purchase a regular or unlimited golf membership. There are no initiation fees, shares or monthly assessments with the City of London Municipal Golf Course System.

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

Questions? We are at your service. Please stop by one of our pro shops or call 519-661-4450.

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.

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

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

$475 $900 $1,450 $1,300

Unlimited Value (25+) $1,050 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. ★May play the Traditional and the Classic on weekends for a regular member green fee.★ Unlimited Hickory (19+) $625 Unlimited golf on the Hickory Course - 7 days a week Unlimited Youth Hickory (7-18) $250 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.

Regular Membership Youth (9-18) $160 Intermediate (19-24) $250 Adult (25+) $285 Senior (65+) $250 Any golf course – 7 days a week pay a reduced green fee.

Thames Valley Hickory (19+) $160 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

All memberships age categories will be defined by August 31, 2017.

PRIME TIME: NON-PRIME TIME: TWILIGHT: JUNIOR (9-18):

2017 Payment Plans

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.

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

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

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

$1,500 $1,350 $1,100 $950 $525

All memberships are subject to HST.

$22.00 $18.00 $12.00 $10.00

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

$44.00 $53.00 $36.00 $24.00 $20.00

Fanshawe Quarry & River Road $17.00 $31.00 $15.00 $12.00 $10.00 $25.00

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

Guest Green Fees

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

$34.00 $44.00 $30.00 $24.00 $20.00 $34.00

Thames Valley Hickory 9 $10.00 $8.00

ADULT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$20.00 $16.00

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

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!

32

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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 r london.ca/golf LondonSportsXpress

Registration is now open for Turfed Co-ed Soccer and Flag Football at Connect Sports London, which provides adults the opportunity to participate in (affordable!) sport and social leagues.

W

N

X T R E M E I N D O O R G O L F E S Golf the world... Golf today

Book your next private event with us at Extreme Indoor Golf

What do we have to offer for March and April? *A group of 8 or more golfers $15/person Consider us for your next fundraising event!

Book our facility to host your party and raise money for your team or charity and have a blast doing it!

Call 519-601-6625 to book your next event or tee time Visit our friendly staff for a tour of our facility Located at 1790 Dundas St. London, Ontario @SportsXpressLON

London.SportsXpress.ca

33

BEST. GIFT. EVER! Road Trips from London and Area to watch Pro Sports

Red Wings Road Trips Apr 1 Toronto Maple Leafs - $199 Apr 8 Montreal Canadiens - $189 Blue Jays Road Trips Apr 15 & 16 Baltimore Orioles - $119 May 27 Texas Rangers - $119 June 3 New York Yankees - $139 - 169 July 2 Boston Red Sox - $139 - 169 July 15 Tigers - $119 - $149

July 29 Aug 18 - 20 Sept 9 & 10 Sept 23 & 24

Los Angeles Angels - $119 - $149 Cubs (3 days, see website for pricing) Detroit Tigers - $119 - $149 New York Yankees - $139 - $169

*Some Blue Jays game include options for field level bases or outfield

Includes game ticket, transportation and more. NFL includes all you can eat/drink tailgate party. Group rates for 10+ people.

Hst to be added (13% for Canadian games and partial 4% for US games). Additional road trips may be available.

Book Now! Space may be limited and prices may be subject to change.

Calendar of Events

To promote your event contact London@SportsXpress.ca

March 2-5 Disney on Ice, Budweiser Gardens

April 30 Forest City Road Races, Victoria Park

May 28 Kids Tri 4 Kids, Carling Heights Community Centre

June 16-18 All Bike Weekend, Grand Bend Motorplex

March 5 Woodstock Recreation and Leisure Fair, Cowan Park Indoor Soccer Fields

May 6-7 Slow Pitch Ontario Superseries, London Area

June 3-4 Slow Pitch Ontario Superseries, London Area

June 18 Runners' Choice Father's Day Walk/Run, TD Waterhouse Stadium

March 11 MEC London Race One: 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Springbank Park

May 7 Stars on Ice, Budweiser Gardens

June 4 Rock the Road 10K, Masonville Place

May 13-14 & 27-28 Slow Pitch Ontario Superseries, London Area

June 9-11 London Badgers Tournament, Headquarters â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stronach Sports Complex

June 24 Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame Celebrity: Game, Golf & Induction Ceremony, St Marys

May 20-21 Play On! 4 On 4 Hockey Tournament, Victoria Park

June 10 Fanshawe Dragonboat Festival, Fanshawe

May 26-28, June 2-4 12th Annual Cardinal Classic Tournament (baseball), Doug Tarry Sports Complex

June 10-11 Slow Pitch Ontario Superseries, London Area

March 13-19 March Madness Youth Soccer Tournament, BMO Centre March 16-17 West London Hockey Initiation Program Funfest, Various arenas March 25, May 6, June 10, July 15 Forest City Derby Girls in action, Western Fair Agriplex April 9 Run for Retina, Harris Park April 22 MEC London Race Two: 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, North London (End of Windemere)

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May 27 MEC London Race Three: 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Potterburg Park May 27-28 London Pickleball Tournament, North London Optimist Centre

London.SportsXpress.ca

June 16-18 Beer & BBQ Show, Western Fair District June 16-18 London Badgers Tournament, Headquarters â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stronach Sports Complex

LondonSportsXpress

June 24 UFE Showdown - Natural Fitness, Centennial Hall June 24-25 Slow Pitch Ontario Superseries, London Area June 25-26 Lexus of London Golf Classic, The Oaks Golf Course July 8 London's Corporate Challenge, Harris Park

sportsfiles

The best youth golf experience

By Tyler Schepens Another season of the London Junior Golf League is about to begin. This junior league provides an experience that involves ‘game-like’ situations in practice along with on-course play. The first introduction to the game of golf for most kids involves either a golf clinic at a range or going to the driving range. And although whacking balls as hard as you can into

The smiles on the faces of Julia (left) and Megan is key to our program!

a big field can be pretty cool, this first experience with the game has very little to do with the game itself.

Our junior league allows children to experience the ups and downs of the game of golf in the company of other children (typically friends) and under the supervision of an experienced coach.

What are the key points about our Junior League? t “Little League” design – provides teams of boys and girls, ages 13 and under, with a structured learning environment for young golfers to compete and have fun. t Team Format for all skills - Each team in the league will play games against other teams in a two-person team scramble format. As long the player can putt and chip, they can contribute to the team! t Coaching from PGA Professionals & Parents - Most recreational sport programs are coached by parents who have

a passion for the sport and enjoy helping young people learn games. The PGA Jr. League is no different - parents coach the team with support from LJGDC staff who coach and instruct the practices. t Spring, Summer and Fall seasons – variety in seasons allows participation by all!

How do I register my child or find out more information?

The London Junior Golf Development Centre welcomes you and your family, regardless of experience or equipment, to start golfing this season. For more information or to register, visit us online at www.londonjuniorgolf.com.

www.londonjuniorgolf.com

SOUTHWEST TRIUNITY BASKETBALL CAMPS HOSTED AT RMC, 5250 WELLINGTON ROAD SOUTH

MARCH BREAK BASKETBALL CAMP

SUMMER CAMP DAY SESSIONS

MARCH 13 - 17 ∙ 8:30AM - 1:30PM

JULY 24 - 28 JULY 31 - AUG 4 AUG 21 - 25 8:30AM - 1:30PM ∙ 1 WEEK BASKETBALL CAMP

GET REPS - TAKE 500 JUMP SHOTS, 1 HOUR BALL HANDLING, 2 HOURS OF GAMES, 1 HOUR ELITE SCORING

$250 PER CAMPER

$260 PER CAMPER

17 SESSION ELITE CAMP JULY - 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, 17, 19, 21, 24, 26, 31 AND AUGUST - 2, 4, 7, 9, 14, 16 4:30PM - 6:15PM CAPPED AT 10 MALES AND 10 FEMALES, WEEKLY PLAYER PROGRESS REPORTS

17 ELITE SESSIONS $510

ALL CAMPS INCLUDE: BASKETBALL SKILLS (DRIBBLING, PASSING, BALL HANDLING, SHOOTING, READING THE COURT, AWARENESS OF SPACE ETC) CLASSROOM SESSIONS WILL BE FOCUSED ON MINDSET AND HOW TO IMPROVE OUR THOUGHT PROCESSES IN LIFE ATHLETIC TRAINING WILL FOCUS ON 1ST STEP QUICKNESS, DECELERATION, BALANCE, QUICK FEET AND AGILITY, RUNNING, ATHLETIC MOVEMENT, CORE STRENGTH AND STRENGTH...

TO REGISTER CONTACT COACHBARNES@SWFACADEMY.COM @SportsXpressLON

London.SportsXpress.ca

35

sportsfiles

Proudly sponsored by

A growing basketball business Submitted by Elite Stars Basketball Jesse Foster is the owner of Elite Stars, a business that offers a variety of basketball opportunities to his local community, St. Thomas, Ontario. Those offerings include: house leagues for adults and children, skill development clinics, an advanced training program, and summer day camps. The ‘fun first’ program caters to all levels of play – from beginner to advanced.

Foster was drafted to play professional basketball in the EuroLeague. He developed a passion for the game at the age of 10. And by the age of 12, he had honed his natural abilities through his focus and commitment to the game.

“Playing basketball was like a second

The two-time 35+ league champions

36

London.SportsXpress.ca

home to me,” Foster says.

It was basketball that developed his self-confidence, social skills, and a love for an active and healthy lifestyle.

“I played the game without realizing the ‘work’ involved in my development,” he said. “I want the kids to feel the same way. I want them to get lost in the game.”

Elite Stars is a growing business that continues to expand opportunities for children and adults. Foster operates the Men’s 35+ League in the community, and continues to welcome new players and teams of all levels. In addition to the group skill development

and agility clinics, Foster offers 1-on-1 advanced training, focusing on a player’s individual needs and goals.

Elite Stars is in its fourth year of operation and has been a welcome addition to the St. Thomas community. It offers a venue for players of all abilities to meet at the same level and share a love of the game of basketball.

www.elitestarselgin.com

The Hatchman Electric youth team from the Elite Stars’ Youth Basketball League

LondonSportsXpress

Jesse Foster has some fun with young players Matthew Poppleton (left) and Brooklin Bogart

teamprofiles

‘The Dog’ is back!

Submitted by the London Lightning and photo by Stu Switzer He is the London Lightning’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder. He takes no plays off, and no workouts off. ‘The Dog,’ Marvin Phillips, is back.

Phillips, a 6-foot-7 forward from Jacksonville, North Carolina, played with

the Lightning for three seasons, from 2012 to 2015, before accepting an offer to play in France. During his time with the Bolts, Phillips averaged 15 points and 10 rebounds per game, and in 2013, the last time the Lightning won a NBL Championship, Phillips was named playoff MVP. In his first three games back this season, he made an immediate impact, averaging 16 points per game while shooting 60 percent from the floor. Lightning Head Coach, Kyle Julius, knew that the addition of Phillips would bring many positives right away.

“Marvin is certainly going to be an impactful addition to our team,” Julius said. “We feel we’ve put together a strong group, and his experience, energy and talent level is only going to make us stronger.”

As for ‘The Dog,’ he is happy to be back in London, which he said was a natural choice for him to return to.

“I’ve played in leagues around the world, and the Lightning is one of the best places I’ve played,” Phillips said. “I’ve never experienced community and fan support like I have in London.”

Phillips brings with him years of The London Lightning added a former face in Marvin Phillips to help with experience, and he will no doubt use their pursuit of a NBL championship in 2017.

@SportsXpressLON

it to motivate himself and the rest of the Lightning team.

“My last stint here in London, we came up short,” Phillips said. “I feel like I still have a little something left to prove. I’m here to win a championship.”

Visit the Budweiser Gardens Box Office or website for tickets, and www. golightning.ca for updates, as the Lightning battle for a shot at another NBL Championship. #GetStruck #TheDogIsBack

www.lightningbasketball.ca

LIGHTNING HOME SCHEDULE all games at Budweiser Gardens at 7pm *2pm **7:30pm Mar 11 - vs River Lions Mar 16 - vs Titans Mar 20 - vs A's Apr 01 - vs Express Apr 05 - vs Highlanders Apr 12 - vs Mill Rats Apr 15 - vs Express** Apr 19 - vs Titans Apr 25 - vs Storm Apr 30 - vs A's*

London.SportsXpress.ca

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sportsfiles

Divers giving back Submitted by Forest City Diving Club While most of our diversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time is spent with their teammates in the pool working on how to perfect their dives, the Forest City Diving Club (FCDC) also strives to make a difference in the community. And so, our divers participated in a 3-month bottle drive this winter where 50 percent of the funds collected were donated to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Manuary,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; a local cause that brings awareness to head and neck cancer research at the London Health Sciences Centre.

Impressively, a cheque for $500 was presented to London Health Sciences Foundation, Head and Neck Cancer Research, and an anonymous donor matched our diversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; efforts for a total of $1,000. The remainder of the proceeds was used towards the purchase of a new training mat for the FCDC dryland facility.

We are looking forward to an exciting spring season.

Not only will our Tier 1 competitive divers be travelling to meets all the way from Victoria, BC to Point Claire, Quebec, our Tier Athletes from the Forest City Diving Club proudly present a cheque for $1,000 to Head and Neck Cancer Research at the 2 divers will also London Health Sciences Centre. showcase their program. The Forest City Diving Club also skills at meets across Ontario during offers March Break and Summer Camps, the coming months. Divers in our newly which give children a great opportunity formed pre-competitive group are workto get to know the sport of diving in a ing hard on their skills, and they will be fun-filled atmosphere. A typical camp day participating in our upcoming Mini Meet includes morning and afternoon diving in April. For those interested, tryouts for practice, with fun crafts and games in the pre-competitive group will be held in between, all while gaining general knowlJune. Please check our website for these edge of the sport. Visit our website and dates (www.forestcitydiving.com). register today!

A great way to enter the exciting world of diving is our PLOUF Learn to Dive www.forestcitydiving.com

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LondonSportsXpress

sportsnews

A thank you from LAC Submitted by the London Aquatic Club The London Aquatic Club (LAC) would like to thank the following local organizations and companies for their ongoing support. These major sponsors receive advertising space on the LAC website,

as well as in our competition programs printed for the four major events hosted annually by our 250-member strong organization. LAC is an athlete-centred, coach-directed, parent-supported club,

@SportsXpressLON

providing opportunities for all swimmers to be the best they can be in a positive, caring, and safe environment.

www.londonaquaticclub.ca

London.SportsXpress.ca

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sportsfiles

Championship time in the pool Submitted by Middlesex Swimming It’s championship time for Middlesex Swimming athletes of all ages and levels, and they’ve been busy preparing for their competitions, which started in February and run through April.

To help prepare for their championship events, a group of Middlesex swimmers and water polo players – of all ages – made the trip to Stuart, Florida for a week (Dec. 28 to Jan. 4) to attend a training camp. The athletes trained for four hours a day, focusing on both skills and fitness.

In February, Middlesex swimmers competed in a pair of meets – the Ontario Winter Festival Championships in Etobicoke, ON (Feb. 18-19), for provincially-ranked swimmers 14 and under, and the Western Region Swimming

Championships in London (Feb. 24-26), which hosted regionally-ranked swimmers aged 8 to 17.

The Club will be even busier in March, competing in three championship events: the Ontario Age Group Championships in Brantford, ON (March 2-5) for provincially-ranked swimmers aged 13 to 17; the Ontario Masters Provincial Championships in Markham, ON (March 24-26) for swimmers aged 18 and up; and the - March 25-26: March Madness Water Polo Tournament in Etobicoke, ON (March 25-26) for players aged 11 to 17.

In April, it will be the Polopalooza Water Polo Tournament (Apr. 8-9) in Toronto, ON, for players aged 18 and up.

It’s a busy time in the pool indeed! Best

of luck to all Middlesex Swimming athletes at their championship competitions!

www.middlesexswimming.ca

March will be a busy month for Middlesex swimmers (and water polo players), as they’ll compete in three separate championship events

The Middlesex Swimming Club sent a group of athletes to Stuart, Florida to participate in a training camp in preparation for their championship competitions, which run from February to April

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LondonSportsXpress

Riley Miszczyk Ball Hockey International (BHi) Riley Miszczyk, a grade nine student at John Paul II Catholic Secondary School, has been playing with Ball Hockey International (BHi) since 2012. He plays all three seasons (Spring, Summer and Fall), and he has played multiple positions over the years, most notably right wing and goalie. On the ice during the winter, Riley plays goalie for the London Junior Knights Bantam AA Green team.

When he’s not competing, Riley can still be found at the rink, as he has volunteered with the Stick Skillz Ball Hockey Academy, and he has also given back to the BHi family by helping with the development of young players in the Little Buddies 4 to 6 age division.

Riley himself started playing when he was four years old, and he’s come a long way since. He has developed leadership skills at the rink, and has grown as player – and as a person.

Congratulations Riley!

@SportsXpressLON

London.SportsXpress.ca

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sportsfiles

Developing London's athletes for 25 years

Celebrating a quarter century Submitted by Forest City Volleyball Club FCVC has been delivering an unparalleled volleyball program to the London Middlesex community for 25 years! This has been a year of celebration, as FCVC Board Members, Alumni, Coaches and Athletes have reflected on the past 25 years and embraced a very bright and promising future.

Acorn Volleyball, FCVC's popular development program, is now being offered to 4 to 13-year-olds. Mini Acorn (Ages 4 to 9) follows the Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model to demonstrate age appropriate exercises and drills to help enhance hand-eye coordination, movement patterns,

agility, strength and posture, all while developing a significant appreciation for volleyball and physical activity in general. Acorn (Ages 10 to 13) is the best environment for aspiring players to build their technical capabilities and optimize their success in the game of volleyball.

In keeping with FCVC's high coaching expectations, all Acorn coaches have significant credentials and experience to give young athletes the best start possible to volleyball for life!

The 2016/17 season has been a tremendous one for FCVC’s Competitive athletes. The boys and girls teams from 12U to 18U have competed with power,

FCVC 17U stretch their compete level at the N3T Volleyball LLC in Chicago. Head Coach Dave Phoenix.

FCVC 18U win Bronze in Premier division. Head Coach Sean Pellow.

FCVC 15U win Gold in Championship division. Head Coach Stu Pow.

passion, and skill, and the club is so proud of all its athletes for their commitment and success. All teams are training hard for upcoming Provincial Championships in April. Thank you to the community for your unwavering support of our FCVC athletes!

Mini Acorn athletes developing their platforms with Head Coach Stu Pow

FCVC 16U win Gold in Championship division. Head Coach Lloyd Rumble.

Mini Acorns learning their ‘ready’ positions

FCVC 17U win Bronze in 18U Championship division.

Head Coach Vaughan Peckham.

FCVC 15U win Gold and FCVC 16U win Silver in 16U Championship division.

Head Coaches John Hong and Mark Peckham.

FCVC 13U win Silver in Championship division.

Head Coach Tom Kerkhoff.

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

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LondonSportsXpress

sportsfiles

Youth City League thriving Submitted by London Sharks Volleyball The London Sharks Volleyball Club is proud to offer Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Youth City League, which provides boys and girls aged 12 to 16 the opportunity to learn the game, improve their skills, and have a lot of fun. The Fall league consisted of six teams (47 athletes) that competed and enjoyed the game of volleyball for 10 weeks with great enthusiasm. The league format allows for participants to have one session per week of drills and skills (which allows the athletes to practice the fundamentals of the game and improve their skills), and one night of competition per week (which includes 2 to 3

matches).

For the Winter League that started in January, a total of 67 athletes registered to participate. Ten teams were formed, and we expect a high level of volleyball from these athletes who are very excited to compete and develop their skills. Most of the young volleyball enthusiasts that come to the Youth City League have the intention to learn the fundamentals and develop better skills that will help them gain the necessary confidence to participate in their school tryouts the following season.

We are fully convinced that the Youth City League, organized by the London Sharks Volleyball Club, is THE best alternative for kids to discover the great game of volleyball. To help them with this purpose, we have established two levels of practice. Beginner (Level I) is for those players who have never played

the sport and need an introductory coaching method.

Advanced (Level II) is for those players who have either successfully completed the Beginners level or have already acquired some skills for the game.

The league takes place at our facility, Supreme Courts Volleyball, located at 11 Buchanan Court. Six full volleyball courts are available for practices on Tuesdays from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm, and for matches on Thursdays from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. And there is lots of room for parents to enjoy watching their kids play the game.

Registration is open for the Spring Session, which will take place from March 27 to June 4. The cost of the league is $125 for 10 weeks. To register (and for more information), please visit us online at www.londonsharks.ca. The website also has information on our March Break and Summer Camps!

www.londonsharks.ca

Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Youth City League, which crowned its first champions following the inaugural Fall League, is for boys and girls aged 12 to 16 who want to learn the game of volleyball, improve their skills, and have a lot of fun doing it.

@SportsXpressLON

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sports@school

Western Mustangs 2017 regular season schedule

Gridiron games announced Submitted by Western Mustangs Athletics Ontario University Athletics (OUA) has unveiled the 2017 football schedule, detailing the path the Western Mustangs need to take as they attempt to win the 31st Yates Cup championship and seventh Vanier Cup in program history.

The Mustangs regular season schedule kicks off on the road on Sunday, August 29, against the York Lions. It will be the first matchup between Western and York since 2015, when the purple and white defeated the Lions by a 74-10 score. It will also be the second time in

The Mustangs return to the gridiron in August, with their first home game set for Monday, September 4 against the Guelph Gryphons

four years that Western has opened its season against York, with Western handing the Lions a 61-0 loss in Toronto back in 2014.

Week two sees the Mustangs return home on Labour Day for a showdown with the Guelph Gryphons. The two teams have engaged in one of the OUA’s most intense rivalries over the past few seasons, with Western breaking out of their recent slump against the Gryphons with a 50-16 win in 2016.

Western heads back on the road for week three for another matchup against a heated rival, when the purple and white will square off against McMaster. The Mustangs have gotten the better of the Marauders over the past two seasons, a trend that McMaster will be looking to break on home turf on Saturday, September 9.

It’s another road contest in week four with Western heading down the 401 to take on the Windsor Lancers on Saturday, September 16, before returning home to add another chapter in one of Canada’s most heated rivalries as the Queen’s Gaels will make their way to TD Stadium on Saturday, September 23.

Always a highly-anticipated matchup, the Mustangs will be aiming for their fifth consecutive win over Queen’s, while the

Week 1 Sunday, August 27 Western at York Week 2 Monday, September 4 Guelph at Western Week 3 Saturday, September 9 Western at McMaster Week 4 Saturday, September 16 Western at Windsor Week 5 Saturday, September 23 Queen’s at Western

Week 6 Saturday, September 30 Western at Laurier Week 7 Friday, October 6 Carleton at Western Week 8 Bye Week Week 9 Saturday, October 21 (Homecoming) Ottawa at Western

Gaels will be eager to try and avenge last season’s loss to Western in the first ever game at the new Richardson Stadium.

All eyes will be on University Stadium on Saturday, September 30, when the Mustangs head on the road to face the Laurier Golden Hawks in a rematch of the 109th Yates Cup. There’s no question that both teams will be fired up as Western looks to remedy last year’s loss in the OUA final.

Thanksgiving means a rare Friday contest for the Mustangs, with the Carleton Ravens coming to town on Friday, October 6. The two teams split their games last year, with Carleton coming out on top in Ottawa during the regular season, while Western defeated the Ravens, 51-24, in an OUA semifinal matchup in London.

Following their contest with Carleton, the Mustangs will get some welldeserved time off with a bye during week eight before the team wraps up the regular season with a Homecoming showdown against Ottawa on Saturday, October 21, at TD Stadium.

www.westernmustangs.ca

Big things happening at Bowlerama Submitted by Bowlerama Royale There’s plenty happening down at Bowlerama Royale, where youth, adults and seniors are enjoying opportunities to bowl, socialize, and generally have a great time! And high tournament/scholarship season is ahead! Almost every

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weekend bowlers of all age groups will be competing for coveted bronze, silver and gold medals, and youth bowlers will be up for scholarship dollar winnings in a program that Bowlerama Royale is truly proud to offer.

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July 1 is Canada Day, and in honour of our country’s 150th birthday, we will be offering FREE bowling with the purchase of food. It’ll be a day of fun for all, including a BBQ, face painting, vendor tables and, of course, bowling!

We have partnered with Playdium ‘Cineplex,’ and they have supplied our facility with a number of entertainment games that have added even more fun to Bowlerama Royale!

Meanwhile, we have newly-improved party rooms that are ideal for birthday parties, corporate outings, and team-

Offseason gridiron gains Submitted by London Minor Football Association Every Friday night in the winter for the past five years, the London Minor Football Association (LMFA) has hosted football skills camps at Centrefield Sports. What started as a small camp has grown every year, and now more than 100 players attend each night.

These camps are affordable (only $5 per player per night), and are open to all girls and boys ages 7 to 13. Through the skills camps, players can stay active and learn some fundamental football skills from LMFA coaches. As well, LMFA graduates now in high school are on hand to give back to the community.

At one night per week, these camps also fit into the multi-sport model for athletes. Players playing winter sports still have plenty of time to enjoy those sports while keeping their football skills up to date. LMFA encourages all of our young athletes to participate in as many sports as their time – and budget – can allow.

Since 1956, LMFA has been part of the sports community in London and area, providing low cost house league football to prepare players for high school football and to make football fans for life.

For more information on the 2017 fall season, as well as offseason camps and clinics, please visit www.lmfafootball.ca or call 519-852-4465.

www.lmfafootball.ca building get-togethers/activities.

Looking ahead, Summer leagues and Summer Camps will be offered again this year. Check out our website at www. bowleramaroyale.com for full details!

Kids Bowl Free!

Back by popular demand, we will be offering the ‘Kids Bowl Free Program’ this summer. Parents can register their kids online at www.kidsbowlfree.com.

Participation in this program also allows Bowlerama Royale to enter schools into a draw for a $1,000 scholarship. Teachers are requested to ask for more details.

Registered kids (whose age does not exceed the limit set by a participating bowling centre) are eligible to receive 2 FREE games of bowling EVERY DAY, all summer long (valued at over $500

Brady Killian

Keagan Condon from Laurier High School

Joe Hancock from Laurier High School

LMFA has been hosting football skills camps once a week, on Fridays, for each of the last five years, where players have learned skills, gained experience, and honed their talents.

per child!), courtesy of the participating bowling centres along with schools and organizations. The Kids Bowl Free program is designed for bowling centres to give back to the community and provide a safe, secure, and fun way for kids to spend their time this summer.

www.bowleramaroyale.com

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‘Stangs full steam ahead Submitted by London Jr. Mustangs

JV coaches ready to roll The Super Bowl marks the end of the NFL season, but another football season is quickly approaching for the London Junior Mustangs. And the 2017 version of the ‘Stangs will see some significant changes atop their two oldest teams.

Longtime Junior Varsity Head Coach Jean Paul Circelli will move to the Varsity level, while newcomer Matt Snyder will take over head coaching duties at the Junior Varsity level.

Snyder is no stranger to football in London, having been involved at the high school and competitive levels for the past 10 years. In the fall, he serves as offensive coordinator at South Collegiate.

In 2016, the South Lions finished 10-0 and won both the London City Championship and the OFSAA championship game.

“The Junior Mustangs are a program built for success,” Snyder said. “The main reasons I came here was the strong leadership at the board level, the first-

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class resources that the program makes available to the players and coaches, and the commitment to developing players and building competitive teams.”

Snyder moved quickly to bring some of the top local coaches on board, retaining David Martin as his defensive coordinator. And he also reached out to several of his previous colleagues to fill his coaching staff, including Joe Gregorio (RB), Sean Van Beers (FB's), Shaun Timbeck (LB's), Brock Thomson (OL), Mike Halfday (DL) and Tyson McClure (DB). Newcomer Kevin Smith (WR) rounds out the staff.

Tryouts for the 2017 Junior Mustangs will start in April. Snyder looks forward to getting back on the field with the players.

“The new Ontario Provincial 'AAA' league is basically the 12 best teams in Ontario battling each week,” Snyder said.

“Every university coach in the province will be scouting these games week by week. If you're looking to be recruited, this is definitely the place to get noticed.

And if you’re looking to achieve great-

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ness in football, the Junior Mustangs are the place to play.”

Atoms armed with new talent In 2016, the Atom Junior Mustang squad, led by Head Coach Bruno De Sando and Defensive Coordinator Adam Melrose, posted a successful 7-1 record.

The team then had the opportunity to play an exhibition game against the Port Huron Bills at halftime of an NFL preseason game between the Detroit Lions and Cincinnati Bengals. The Atoms are certainly hoping to have another successful season this year, but it won’t come without its challenges.

“We’ve lost a lot of players,” De Sando said. “Fifteen of our 20 players from last year’s roster have moved up to the PeeWee level. But our recruiting this offseason has gone very well, and we have some real talent coming into the organization. I’m confident we’ll be successful again this year.”

De Sando has named Brandon Yohnicki as his offensive coordinator. Yohnicki

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Turkey Bowl a smashing success Submitted by Preferred Insurance The Preferred Insurance Turkey Bowl had a small and humble beginning 10 years ago as a thank you to business partners. It has since evolved into a huge hospitality, networking and charitable event. The goal for 2016 was to raise

The Turkey Bowl is a team effort. And in 2016, with the help of numerous partners, Preferred Insurance helped raise a recordbreaking $40,350 for Childcan, an amazing organization that helps families cope with childhood cancer.

$35,000 for Childcan, and thanks to the partnership and generosity of more than 100 business partners, the goal was surpassed and a new record was set at $40,350.

Every year we dream it bigger and better, and every year we make it happen. The Turkey Bowl is a special day for our business partners, as we invite them to connect with us on a mission to raise money for Childcan, an amazing organization that helps families cope with childhood cancer.

Our biggest transformation came from partnering with BELFOR Property Restoration as our Signature Event Partner. The move has substantially helped us take it to another level, and we are very grateful for their continued partnership. Our total raised for the past five years has now surpassed $140,000.

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

The 2016 edition marked special partner contributions from Boss Hog's Smokin Chophouse, Holiday

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Inn & Suites, New Era Graphix, Scherba's Great Floors, Carr's Shell, Classic Rock â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FREE 98.1FM, and McClelland Premium Beers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; featuring their Stiegl and Erdinger brands. These companies are greatly appreciated. We welcomed the Forest City Volleyball Club 18U Girls Green Team as our guest hospitality team for the event. They had a great experience, and earned funding for their team through their participation.

All-Star Partners who made special excess donations beyond regular partnership amounts included: t Hagerty Classic Car Insurance - $1,000 t CARSTAR London East - $1,000 t CARSTAR London West - $1,000 t Downtown Auto Glass - $1,000 t Enterprise Rent-A-Car - $2,000 t Gore Mutual Insurance Company - $5,000 We are extremely proud and grateful to have such fantastic partners. Together, we raised $40,350 in one amazing day!

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What is a Black Belt?

Submitted by Olympic Karate A Black Belt is a white belt that never gave up. It’s a classic saying, and it shows that in order to succeed at any goal you must be disciplined, focused, and have perseverance. So, what is a Black Belt? Many simply attribute a Black Belt with a martial arts practitioner who has reached the top rank. But it means so

much more. At Olympic Karate, our Black Belts are truly our top-level students.

They are coaches and mentors to the younger generations – both in karate lessons and in life. And they are exemplars of courteous and proper social behavior.

They’re the ones to break up a fight, (not start it), the ones holding the door open

Yes, there are Black Belts at Olympic Karate. But besides having achieved their top rank in the field of martial arts, they are the leaders and mentors, passing on their knowledge and cultivating good citizens.

Walter Gretzky Street Hockey Tournament

By Ball Hockey International The Walter Gretzky Street Hockey Tournament is an outdoor ball hockey event held each June in Brantford, Ontario.

It is named for Walter Gretzky, a Canadian best known as the father of NHL legend Wayne Gretzky.

This year marks the 11th year of the tournament, and it will be held from Friday June 2 to Sunday, June 4, 2017.

In 2010, this great tournament established a Guinness World Record for the largest Street Hockey Tournament in the world, with 205 teams and just over 2,096 players participating.

After the death of Phyllis Gretzky, the matriarch of the Gretzky family, Walter and his family have enthusiastically partnered with the Ontario Lung Association to raise funds

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LondonSportsXpress

for a stranger, and the ones simply saying please and thank you when appropriate.

At Olympic Karate, all of our instructors are Black Belts who have gone though our curriculum. They teach with handson knowledge and a passion to deliver the same level of care that they received from their instructors. We call it the full circle of martial arts. And as Master Sensei Tim says, “Martial arts is like a pantry of food. If everyone took food and didn’t put any back, it would eventually become empty. It requires leaders to ensure that the stock remains full.”

Come in and see what our karate community has become through years of care and passion. We have Black Belts, but we also do a lot more than just karate: we have PA day camps, Summer Camps, birthday parties, and more! And, ALL new students get a FREE TRIAL!

www.olympickarate.on.ca

DIVISIONS OFFERED: Novice (2007 to 2008) Atom (2005 to 2006) Peewee (2003 to 2004) Bantam (2001 to 2002) Midget (1999 to 2000) Masters 35+ Adult Recreational Adult Intermediate Adult Competitive*

Police Girls 18 and under Ladies Recreational Ladies Competitive Co-Ed OHL Corporate

for research. Since 2012, the Walter Gretzky Street Hockey Tournament has been hosted and supported by the Lung Association. During this time, The Lung Association has raised $82,276 for research, thanks to participation from teams all over North America.

There are categories for every type of ball hockey player, from the youngest kids to the oldest adults, and from really competitive to recreational. The entire area around BHi Brantford turns into a mini village during the tournament.

Besides the actual rinks that are on the premises, there are fences and boards erected anywhere there is room to accommodate as many teams as possible.

Proudly supported by

Flyers’ focus is on fun Contributions by Justin Smith and photo by Gerald Girouard For the London Red Circle Flyers Tyke team, fun is one of the squad’s primary goals. And so it should be. The Flyers are a house league team made up of 13 youngsters that plays out of Stronach Arena. And have as much fun as possible.

Coach Justin Smith and Coach Joe Hogg say there’s a good reason for that.

“If the kids are having fun,” Smith says, “they’ll continue to want to learn and improve their skills.”

And they’ve done a lot of improving this year. Skating skills have been the emphasis for much of the season. And each

player has improved significantly, perhaps especially the few who had very limited skating abilities at the start of the season.

They’ve come a long way! Now that it’s getting later in the year, the coaches have progressed to teaching some shooting and stickhandling drills. For most of the players, this year was the first time they’d ever played together.

“Most of these kids really have a passion for the game,” said Smith, who is in his third year of coaching and who has played the game himself for about 30 years. “And our players are always eager

to learn and put in the effort to improve.”

And, as is often the case coaching youth sports, Smith, the coach, has gotten back from the players as much as he’s given. In fact, he says that seeing the kids develop their skills while having a lot of fun doing it is often the highlight of his week.

“Being able to coach this team is a real honour,” he said. “And to see the parents invest their time and hard-earned money to get up at 6am on a Saturday or Sunday and drive to the rink is truly awe-inspiring.

It shows a true dedication to Canada's game.”

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Featured Sylvan All Star LUCAS BOLAND London Red Circle Flyers Tyke team: Top row (left to right): Rocco Soave, Tyee Garlow, Sam Bennett, Anthony Pauli, Landon Broomer.

Middle row: Justin Smith (coach), Elliot Cadwell, Darek Kopala, Jenny Kopala, Carter Smith, Emerson Meurs, Nolan Wilson, Joe Hogg (coach). Bottom row: Joe Hogg, Lucas Boland. Coaches: Justin Smith and Joe Hogg.

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Sylvanlearning.com Call us to learn more about Sylvan LEGO® robotics classes!

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Great Escape is a proud Title Sponsor of the Lucan Irish

Ambitious goals ahead Contributions by Jason Smith and photo by Sharyn, SmugMug Jason Smith and his Lucan Irish Jr. C coaching staff have an ambitious goal in mind. They’d like to win the league’s championship trophy in the 50th anniversary season of Irish hockey. That’s in 2018-19, and they’re already preparing to give the team its best shot to win the title.

“We’re really gearing up for the anniversary year, and we hope it will be a special season,” said Smith, the team’s head coach. “The coaching staff currently in place have all played for the Lucan

Irish at one point or another, and we all know how special it would be to make a run at the cup in the organization’s 50th year.”

But while the long-term goal may be on a Cup in 2018-19, the focus right now is on the current squad, which came four points shy of making the playoffs this past season. Playoffs will be the goal again next year, or perhaps, Smith says, even a top 4 finish in the league stand-

A tournament team

ings. But it won’t come easy.

“Our league is so tough,” Smith said.

“We only had three teams over .500 this season.”

With 15 rookies (and players under 19), Smith and his staff had the opportunity to let the kids get a lot of experience and learn the grind of a 40-game schedule

London Junior Mustangs are proudly sponsored by

Contributions by Shawn Phibbs and photo by Trish Phibbs You might call them a ‘Tournament Team.’ After all, the London Junior Mustangs’ Major PeeWee White team has enjoyed great success in tournaments all season, reaching the final in each of their first five tourneys. They won two of those, lost once in overtime, and lost twice by one goal. In one of their tournament wins, the Mustangs trailed by three goals with six minutes left in their semi-final match before they staged an impressive comeback and earned the win in a shootout. They went on to lose lost 3-2 in the final.

Tournament play has taken them to Ajax, Amherstburg, and Troy, Michigan, while they’ve played a tourney in both

St. Thomas and London as well. As part of the Minor Hockey Alliance of Ontario (the Bristol Division), they’ve played travel teams from Hamilton, Brantford, Kitchener, Burlington and Sarnia, to name a few. Their goal is to qualify for the OHF PeeWee Championship at the end of the season in Kapuskasing. Head coach Shawn Phibbs thinks they have what it takes.

“When this team is focused, they have great success,” said Phibbs, who has coached minor hockey for each of the last 13 years but is making his Mustangs coaching debut this season. “Our two goalies are strong, our defensive group is well-balanced, and each of our three

forward lines bring something different to the game.”

Phibbs and his coaching staff continues to work on the development of their players – both on the ice as hockey players and off it as young men. On the ice, the emphasis is put on developing individual skills while also teaching team tactics. Attention to detail is important, says Phibbs, as is getting the best effort possible out of their players each time they step on the ice.

“We continually reinforce the importance of remaining focused, staying in the moment, and not being distracted by outside influences,” Phibbs said.

“Off the ice, we continue to try to impress upon our players how to be a good teammate and a good person.

We try to remind them that the skills they are learning as players (focus, attitude, effort) are applicable to everything they do, whether it be school, family or other activities.”

And it seems like it’s working very well for the 17 Mustangs players, who continue to get better and grow as players – and people – each time The London Junior Mustangs White PeeWee Team: Back row (left to right): Coaches Doug Crosbie, Lonny Hoskin, Shawn Phibbs (Absent: Matt Bossence). Middle row: they lace up the skates.

Cohen McQueen, Nick Metron, Josh D'Alessandro, Jaden Reyers, Jackson Teixeira, Ethan Hoskin, Zach D'Alessandro, Will Dykstra, Jarrett Humphries. Front row: Bradley Roff, Garrett Phibbs, Brayden Youden-Richard, Tyler Taplay, Ty Weetman, Justin Zirul, Mason Crosbie, Matt Leff

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Road Trips vs.

Toronto Maple Leafs

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and 60-minute games, which was new Smith said. “We had good leadership Smith is already thinking ahead to a poto most. The big development of the seafrom our older players, and now we have tential run at the league title in 2018-19. son, Smith says, was the growth of the to build on that. It starts in the dressing “To make a run at the Cup in our 50th team’s young players. room, and we have a close-knit team.” year would be pretty spectacular.”

“It really produced a stepping stone for That will bode well for the future. And teaching team systems that we want to work on for next season,” said Smith. “We were also able to set some goals to work towards for next year – both from an individual and team standpoint.”

Next season, the Jr. C Irish could potentially return 20 of their 23 rostered players from this season.

“We’re in a position to Lucan Irish Jr. C Hockey: (l to r) 4th row: Terri Noble (executive), Jamie Mcfadden(executive), Len Anderson (president), Cam VanBoxmeer(video/stats), Andy McIntyre(executive). 3rd row: Nick teach a team to grow toSmith,Cam Schram, Troy Willis, Austin Henry, Matt Stonehouse, Darby Tyndall, Jason Braun. 2nd row: Dave (equipment personnel), Garry Parsons (executive), Jack Leitch, Nick Hutton, Zac Smith, Jacob Smith, Kyle Dama, Alex Bishop, Jakob Neubauer, Eric Guay, Dan Tyndall (Trainer). Front Row: Tyler Beattie, Noah Lambe, Wes Huston (Assistant Coach), Connor Lyttle, Wayne Hall gether and learn together,” (GM), Nathan Marcil, Jason Smith (Head Coach), Paul Dimovski,Drew Reichert (Assistant coach), Brody Thompson, Sam Bergeron. Absent: executive- Darlene Marcil and Player - Alex Solomons

Making it possible

London Junior Knights are proudly sponsored by

By Steven DuBarry and photo by Forest City Image Centre The Pond Mills Medical Pharmacy has sponsorship works great, as it provides made it easier for hockey players in the private companies like the Pond Mills London area to participate and compete Medical Pharmacy a way of giving back to at a high the commu“Pond Mills Medical Pharmacy has level this nity that has made it easier for hockey players in the supported its season by providing London area to participate and compete business for player sponyears. at a high level this season by providing many sorships. The This player sponsorships.” cost for youth season, sports, particularly ice hockey, continues the Pond Mills Medical Pharmacy has to increase year after year, and many put some of its sponsorship dollars parents and players rely on sponsorship toward players within the London Junior from private sector firms to cover these Knights AAA/AA minor hockey system, costs. Sponsorship affords teams and who placed first overall in their regular athletes more opportunity to help offset season. The London Junior Knights teams the costs of competing. Player and team compete in the Alliance Minor Hockey

Association, which includes teams across Southwestern Ontario.

Its purpose is to “enhance the positive value of our hockey programs by providing leadership initiatives to develop better citizens, to encourage and direct the fostering of a strong sense of community pride and participation for all communities large and small.”

Over the years, there have been many players who have competed in this league and gone to higher levels of hockey, including the National Hockey League, Ontario Hockey League, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and at the Canadian University level. But regardless of where players end up, they all began with a great minor hockey experience provided by these first-class organizations.

Kudos to the Pond Mills Medical Pharmacy for valuing youth sport and for supporting local athletes!

Peewee AA White: Conner Nelles, Ewan Meiklejohn, Callum Thompson, Keagan Tebbutt, Chase Lee, Dex Bothwell, David Lee, Caden Curran. Top row: Assistant coach Mike Remington, Chase Adams, Ripken Webber, Jacob Julien, Jackson Mackay, Nathan DuBarry, Zachary Nemeth, Braedan Bubb-Clarke, Harrison Chant, Nathan Harrington, Coach Darcy Solway

Montreal Canadiens

See page 34 for details

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Britain’s got ball hockey talent Submitted by Ball Hockey International Ball Hockey International (BHi) is pleased to announce that they will submit and manage Team Britain’s entry into the 2017 World Ball Hockey Federation (WBHF) World Championships. This event will take place in June, 2017, in LitomericeLovosice, Czech Republic. This biannual ball hockey event brings together nations from across the globe to competing to bring home a gold medal.

In order to try out for the 2017 Team Britain entry, players must be able to show British heritage. Players must also self-fund their participation in the tournament. BHi will help subsidize the registration costs for registered BHi players. Fundraising events and opportunities will take place leading up to the tournament to assist players with the cost.

“BHi is pleased to announce that they will submit and manage Team Britain’s entry into the 2017 WBHF World Championships.”

“This is an amazing opportunity for players with British heritage to participate in this international event,” said Chad Asselstine, BHi General Manager.

“We’re confident that we can put together a team to represent Britain well, and compete with ball hockey’s elite nations.”

Said Domenic Di Gironimo of the World Ball Hockey Federation: “We are pleased to be working with another leader in the sport’s growth. The WBHF’s global expansion requires experienced people to support and contribute to its development.”

If you are interested in trying out for Team Britain, please contact Dan Gilbert at dgilbert@ballhockeyinternational. com. For sponsorship and partnership opportunities, please contact Bryan Mcgahey at bmcgahey@ballhockeyinternational.ca. For media inquiries, please contact Chad Asselstine at casseslstine@ballhockeyinternational. com.

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Call or email us for any information about Team Britain, Spring Season or Highschool tournament LondonSportsXpress

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A record-breaking tourney Submitted by London Devilettes Hockey The first weekend of February is generally known for one of the largest sports events in the world – the Superbowl. In London, the first weekend of February is known for one of the biggest sporting events in the city – the London Devilettes Annual Girls Hockey Tournament. This year’s event again set a new record, as 183 teams participated. The numbers are staggering, and the economic impact that this tournament has on the city is massive.

“The impact of the tournament is farreaching,” said Spiro Grima, President of the London Devilettes. “To begin with, we bring together over 180 hockey teams, which in and of itself is truly remarkable.

That’s more than 3,000 girls coming together to celebrate and become empowered by the sport of hockey. And the growth of this tournament, which started out with only 12 teams in the 1990’s, has directly mirrored the growth of women’s hockey across North America.

“The tournament also helps to continue this CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNING TEAMS! growth, as it serves as a Division Winner major fundraising effort Novice House League London Devilettes SILVER 604 for our Association. The Novice A North Halton Twisters 2519 LDGHA commits its funNovice B Woolwich Wild 7101 draising monies towards Atom House League Essex Thunder Orange 5959 girl’s hockey, subsidizing everything from ice costs Atom A Whitby Wolves 4852 to jerseys. And then let’s Atom BB Oakville Hornets 1264 not forget that 180 teams Atom B Lambeth Lancers 6001 bring over 2,000 families Peewee House League Twin Center Hericanes 7520 to the city of London and Peewee A Sault Ste Marie Wildcats 4009 surrounding area. Hotels Peewee BB London Devilettes 663 in and around London are Peewee B Sault Ste. Marie Wildcats completely sold out, and Bantam House League Chatham Outlaws 2275 you can readily see girls in Bantam A Syracuse Valley Eagles their respective team jackBantam BB Ancaster Avalanche 5058 ets out at our restaurants Bantam B Sarnia Jr Lady Sting 3357 and shopping locales.”

Midget A London Devilettes-Dennis 654 We also cannot forget Midget BB London Devilettes-Simpson 668 the spirit of volunteerism Intermediate House League Burlington Blues 1684 that drives this tourna-

The Midget A London Devilettes Gold Medal-winning team pose with their medals and banner

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ment. Over 350 volunteers, consisting of Devilette parents, player siblings, and hockey enthusiasts spend the weekend ensuring that the games flow smoothly and that scores are updated. At the same time, they act as Ambassadors for London, as they field questions from visiting families about our great city. Greg and Kathy Strauss head up the daunting task of organizing and continue to run one of the biggest and best tournaments in Canada.

“It was great to be able to lead over 350 volunteers helping put on London's largest hockey tournament of the year,” said Greg. “There was some great hockey played, but more importantly it was great to see almost 3,000 girls having a fun weekend with their teammates in our city!”

Tournament Facts: t 183 teams participating t 3,300 players t Largest tournament that London hosts in any given year t 10 US teams participating t 413 hours of ice booked at 10 different rinks and 18 pads of ice being used! t 35 Devilettes teams participating in the tournament t 106 teams booked in hotels with over 3,000 rooms booked for the weekend! t Over 350 volunteers

www.londondevilettes.ca

Camryn Palmer, Julia Laszlo, and Stella Hiscox taste victory as they celebrate after winning Peewee BB Gold in a shootout

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Development the focus for Wildcats Contributions by Marc Depatie and photo by Bob Wilson, Shooters Sports Photography

Proudly Sponsored by

The Woodstock offered a similar opportunity to our goalWildcats 2016ies by partnering with Matt Parker. Matt 17 season saw provided training to both our goalies and seven teams take our coaches. Our biggest success on the the ice, ranging ice this year has been our Bantam BB from Novice (ages team, which placed first in their division, The Wildcatsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mission is to give an op7 to 8) to Senior and will be moving on to the Provincial portunity to as many girls in Woodstock (which gives the girls a place to play tournament in April. and surrounding areas the opportunity to after theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve finished their minor hockey The Woodstock Wildcat organization play hockey in a fun and active environcareers). We also have a very successful is committed to development, and we ment. To learn more about the Wildcats, Kittens/Timbits Plus program for kids will continue to expand our development visit us online! aged 4 to 6, which is a great program for program going into the 2017-18 season. www.woodstockwildcats.com kids who are learning to skate and looking for an introduction to hockey (in a fun, non-competitive atmosphere).

We made some big changes to the Wildcat development program this year. The first was that we were able to offer each team an extra hour of ice time per week.

And we were able to partner with Kelly Paton (Western Mustangs Women's hockey Head Coach). Each team was given the opportunity to have Kelly come out and train them four times Woodstock Wildcats 2016-17 Bantam BB team: Back row (left to right): Olivia Smart, Madison Horne, Taylor Buckrell, Morgan Punter, Meaghan Bloomfield, Ella Dempsey, Morgan Leblanc. Middle row: Morgan Porter, Janice Bloomfield, Doug Karn, Wayne Murphy (Coach), Aprile Nash, Ashley Kilgour. Front row: Amelia during the year. We also Davis, Beth Ewing, Marissa Freeman, Erin Depatie (Goalie), Paige Tilford, Paige Ford, Dani Karn

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Tourney win a highlight Contributions by Jason Ross and photo by Picture Day Photography The London Bandits B4 Atom team set a goal at the beginning of the year to make it into the A pool in the playoffs. They have accomplished that goal in fine fashion, and proceeded to set some new ones, including making the top 4 in the A pool and then moving on to the semi finals and then the finals for the City Championship.

That would qualify the Bandits for the Alliance Championships, and time will tell if they’re able to accomplish the feat.

The Bandits B4 Atom team plays in the Community House League (CHL), competing against all the organizations in the city, including the North London Nationals, West London Hawks, and Oakridge Aeros, as well as the other teams within the London Bandits organization.

Tournament play has also been kind to the Bandits B4 squad this year, as they captured the Neil Barker Memorial Tournament championship while going undefeated at the event, which included an impressive overtime win in the semi-final game. The team will travel to Niagara Falls for a tournament over the March Break.

Fifteen players make up the London Bandits B4 team. About half had played together at some point during their minor hockey careers prior to this season. But for four new players, it’s their first year on the ice. It’s a hard-working group, and head coach Jason Ross is guiding the ship, aiming to bring out the best in his troops – both on and off the ice.

London Bandits B4 Atom Team: Top row (left to right): Trainer Jeff Harvie, Coach Jason Ross, Assistant Coach James Toye, Assistant Coach Dylan Wilson-Foote.

Middle row: Ryan Cole, Jaden Bulmer, Matthew Foote, Yousuf Ali, Rayann Elhaje, Carter Groves. Front row: Brennen Ross, Jeffrey Harvie, Jakob Burlock, Owen Barron, Vincent Arsenault (goalie), Damien Hanley, Owen Marche Bastarache, Nathan Oliva, Braeden Hill

“On the ice, we’re working on positional play, passing, skating and all the fundamentals of the game,” said Ross, who has coached minor hockey for 23 years, at virtually every age group. “Off the ice, we’re working on keeping our teammates’ emotional tanks full and our game preparation.”

Ross has been a huge help to the players’ development, and sponsors have been a huge help to the team. The Bandits Atom B4 team wants to thank all their sponsors and volunteers – for their time and their support in making it a great season. As Ross says, without them there would be no hockey in the city.

Specifically, Discount Drain, London International Airport, Positive Identity, and Utilismart Corporation helped the Bandits compete in three tournaments this year, including their gold medal-winning showing at the Neil Barker Tournament in January. Thank you again to our sponsors and supporters!

www.londonbanditshockey.com

Chiefs welcome open borders Submitted by Elgin Middlesex Chiefs The Elgin Middlesex Hockey Alliance (EMHA) will celebrate its 25th Anniversary in 2018. The Chiefs organization is very proud of its history, and is extremely excited about the future.

We are very pleased to call the Komoka Wellness Centre our home. This facility boasts two NHL-sized ice rinks with 12 changerooms and a 750 and 250-seat capacity seating within the respective rinks. The facility also contains a fitness centre with an indoor walking track and gymnasium, operated by the YMCA. The organization is dedicated to pro-

viding certified staff that is committed to delivering high performance training for AAA hockey competition, as it promotes players to develop their athletic and team skills. We acknowledge the demands that are placed on players, and there is a commitment to provide support to assist with managing the expectations and fulfilling the EMHA experience. Players, parents, coaches, and volunteers are also expected to adhere to a level of conduct that brings credit to themselves and the organization and uphold the values of citizenship and service.

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EMHA is committed to protecting our players’ interests, especially as it relates to injuries. With the guidance of Parachute Canada, there are concussion guidelines to determine when a player may return to the game. There is an abundance of information on our website to educate players, parents and staff regarding concussions. In addition, we encourage all readers to view our Mission, Vision and Values that are now guiding principles of the organization.

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

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

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

This is also the time of year when parents begin the quest of searching for the right goalie school, the one where their child will learn the most, have fun, and develop their life skills as well. Puckstoppers is one of the longest running schools in the world, with literally thousands of happy goalie customers. We’d like you to visit our website and consider one of our 12 program options this summer.

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has written a new book specifically for coaches and goalie parents, which discusses how to properly work with goalies in minor hockey. The book, Target Practice, 8 Mistakes That Ruin A love Of The Game, is now available. This is a ‘must have’ compliment to our Coaches Goaltender Training Certification program that runs four days in August, and it should be on EVERY coach’s list of things to do.

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Puckstoppers students will work hard and have fun, while learning a ton.

We are leaders in celebrating the sucAAA centre to obtain their F1s and go cess of our players by hosting a Chiefs directly to their organization of choice family day in October, and a banquet for to continue with the tryout process. all team members in April. We support The EMHA welcomes this decision and individual team efforts that choose to be encourages released players from other involved in the community through variorganization to participate in our tryouts. ous initiatives.

The Chiefs are looking to strengthen On April 11, 2017, the tryout process begins for the 2017/2018 hockey season.

The schedules will be available on the website. Alliance Hockey recently made a decision to open borders for tryouts for Minor Bantam, Bantam and Minor Midget, as a pilot program. This will allow eligible players who are released from their home The EMHA welcomes the decision by Alliance Hockey to open borders, and encourages

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our Major Bantam and Minor Midget teams, not only from within our borders but also intend to make additional space available to form the most competitive teams possible. Good luck in tryouts. Go Chiefs!

www.elginmiddlesexchiefs.com

Fans take in the action on Chiefs Day

released players from other organizations to participate in Chiefs tryouts

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And the winner is…

Submitted by Sport Clips London Sport Clips Haircuts wants to send a mission is to provide a ‘championship as a backdrop. It’s a win-win situation, BIG thank you to everyone who particihaircut experience in an exciting sportsand a big hit in London! pated in our ‘Bad Hockey Hair’ contest themed environment.’

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The company, founded in the early contest win!

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Prize,’ as well as two tickets to a Toronto of life’s necessities – a haircut – and feel www.sportclips.ca Maple Leafs game! Angelo is one of our comfortable doing so, all with the sports wonderful clients at our Hyde Park and Fanshawe Sport Clips location.

Sport Clips Haircuts has three locations in London (all London owned and operated): 1985 Hyde Park Rd, 1103 Adelaide St. N, and 3059 Wonderland Rd S. A franchise, Angelo Bacalhau, the winner of Sport Clips London’s ‘Bad Hockey Hair’ contest, went home with $5,000 and a pair of tickets to a Toronto Maple Leafs game.

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The Spartan advantage Contributions by Aaron Brady and photo by Ryan Starr & the London Knights Where do London Knights players go for their nutrition and supplement needs?

They go to Spartan Nutrition, where owner Aaron Brady dispenses his breadth of knowledge on fueling the body for optimal performance. For the Knights, that means firing on all cylinders on the ice as they make a run at defending their Memorial Cup championship from a year ago.

For close to 10 years, Spartan Nutrition has been the ‘Official Nutrition Supplier’ of the London Knights. Brady has worked for many years with Doug Stacey, the Knights’ Trainer/Physiotherapist. Stacey and Brady collaborate on the best nutrition options for London’s players to perform at their peak. This means developing pre-game/pre-workout, in-game,

and post-game nutrition plans. Each is important, and Brady enjoys seeing Knights players benefit from proper nutrition and supplementation.

“It’s great being associated with such a highly successful organization as the Knights,” Brady said. “The organization and the players understand that it’s important to fuel your body with the proper nutrition to achieve peak performance.

And it’s exciting to see the results in these elite athletes.”

Brady, who oversees all five Spartan Nutrition locations in London, is a big proponent of protein and multivitamins, which Knights players take to help improve recovery time. This means they’re able to work harder in their next practice, or recover quicker and be strong in the

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But it’s not just Knights players who can benefit from protein and multivitamin supplement use. These products can help athletes of all kinds (and weekend warriors alike) perform better and get stronger. Interested in improving your overall health and performance? Head down to Spartan Nutrition and see your local nutrition expert.

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Hockey homestretch for Juniors

By Brandon Piper and photo by Claus Andersen of Getty Images As the clock winds down on the 2016/17 OHL regular season, the London Knights look battle ready for another

postseason run.

With the trade deadline in the rearview mirror and the season headed into its last bend, the typical tug of war between the Knights and Erie Otters has transcended into a five-headed monster battling for top spot in the Western Conference.

The Owen Sound Attack, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds and Windsor Spitfires have all thrown their hats into the ring as contenders this year, meaning that the Knights will have to be vigilant if they hope to repeat last year’s Memorial Cup season.

Working in their favour Tyler Parsons stretching out to make a save against the Erie Otters. is the fact that it could

Krown London South: (L-R) Paul Scott (L) Chris Cormier (C) both spray technicians. (R) Marc LeRiche, Manager ( and apparently Oilers Captain!). Bottom left picture is Owner Randy Taverner

be argued that this year’s squad is more balanced from top to bottom. The top line of Cliff Pu, Max Jones and Janne Kuokkanen are all healthy and firing on all cylinders. J.J. Piccinich has worn the captaincy on his sleeve – game in and game out. And Owen MacDonald has found his scoring touch in the nick of postseason time.

Meanwhile, Tyler Parsons continues to hold the fort in net and has been one of the top goalies in the CHL this season.

And the deadline acquisitions of Mitchell Stephens, Dante Salituro and Mitch Vande Sompel have all made their presence known and have given the Knights a core depth like no other team in the league.

There’s no doubt that these Knights are armed and battle ready for another chance to defend the throne.

www.londonknights.com

Krown Rust Control Centre: Top photo: (L to R) Rob - shop manger, Elaine - office manger and Mike - owner. Bottom photo: (L to R) spray tecs - Eric, Joel, Mike and Paul

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Introducing Ellis Hockey Detail Submitted by Progressive Hockey Development (PHD) Everything in life evolves, and the years, camps have been game of hockey is no different. The game held for this type of learnis faster, more skilled, and more exciting ing in Toronto, Detroit, than ever before. And the world of hockey Nova Scotia, Edmonton, from us.” development is no different. When the and in Europe, to name a few locales.

PHD will continue to operate and work game evolves, the way that we prepare Now, there are a lot of people in this with its athletes, and will work hand in and train must also evolve. region demanding it as well. The first hand with Ellis Hockey Detail to provide At Progressive Hockey Development such camp is slated for March 31-April 2 the best teaching environment to hockey (PHD), our goal is to continue to evolve in Komoka. players of all ages and levels. and to give the tools to our athletes who “The athletes will get the information, www.progresivehd.com want to keep working towards their longtraining and detail in three days – the term goals. PHD is pleased to announce same amount that they would a new form of Hockey Development, Ellis over a 10-week program,” said Hockey Detail, which is a new series of Ellis. “PHD will introduce a new highly-detailed elite camps designed video platform, so that players specifically for players who want to get can see their daily repetitions the most out of their time on the ice. almost immediately after their Each skater will be run through a series day on the ice has completed. of drills that are currently used to teach The video component is so vital players on the Toronto Maple Leafs and for developing and perfecting Toronto Marlies. Ellis Hockey Detail will each movement. This way the offer high-end, high-detail training to player can see what they have elite level hockey players playing AAA worked on and how it can impact level hockey, or for those wishing to their game. All players and make the jump to AAA hockey. goalies will receive a complete “In my time teaching camps all over video breakdown, so that they A new PHD venture, Ellis Hockey Detail, aims to provide highly-detailed training the world, the one thing I found is that can continue to reference and camps for players at the AAA level, and for those looking to make the jump to there are a certain number of players use the information provided AAA. who want more … more detail, more attention, more development,” said Mike Ellis, PHD Founder and Head Instructor. “I have a passion for teaching hockey to all ages and skill levels, and this new venture gives another group a place to learn and push themselves to their limits – and beyond.”

Over the last few Zach Hyman of the Toronto Maple Leafs Renata Fast, a Canadian Olympic Team prospect

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