SportsXpress London Nov/Dec 2018

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 London & Area Edition

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fitness................................................ pgs 4-5 lacrosse.................................................. pg 7 baseball............................................ pgs 8-11 soccer............................................. pgs 12-15 seniors.................................................. pg 16 archery...................................................pg 17 basketball............................................. pg 18 aquatics..........................................pgs 21-23 curling............................................ pgs 24-25 volleyball.............................................. pg 26 martial arts.................................... pgs 27-28 skating.................................................. pg 28 golf.................................................pgs 30-31 gymnastics..................................... pgs 33-35 cheerleading.................................. pgs 35-37 dance.................................................... pg 38 football.......................................... pgs 40-43 hockey........................................... pgs 43-54 Special thanks to Henry Mendel of Mendel Imaging (cover photo) plus Olympic Karate and Family Karate (inside cover photos).

KEEP CALM & TRAIN FOR LIFE

BEST. GIFT. EVER!

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

Road trip details available on page 43 or at

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®

It’s NINJA time!

Submitted by CTC Obstacles

Network

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 OBSTACLES

commit. train. conquer.

As fall is upon us, we start to CHRISTMAS GIFT PACKAGES think of all that cold and snow coming our way! In need of doing • 90-minute pass, dry-fit T-shirt, and CTC wrist band – $30 something with the kids that •Month of unlimited NINJA kid’s classes, unlimited open keeps them active and gets them gym and a dry-fit T-shirt – $90 out of the house – but doesn’t Check out our website at www.ctcobstacles.ca for all our involve hats, gloves, and snow? deals (including adult packages)!

CTC has many different options for kids aged seven and up! gymnastics, parkour, boxing, team sports We have NINJA classes, parkour training, and more! Our staff are first-aid classes, open gym times and competiand CPR-certified, and our goal is to give tions! We also run adult classes and open you and your children a fun and active gyms at all different times throughout sport to do this coming winter. the week, with an adult class during each And, of course, winter means… kid’s class (so that you can work out and Christmas! So, we are making it easy for be a great role model!). you! We have a range of Christmas gift CTC focuses on a fun, safe environment options. For $30, you can get a 90-minwith staff that are involved with the kids ute pass, a dry-fit T-shirt, and CTC wrist every step of the way! Our staff teach band. For $90, you can get a month of kids how to use the obstacles safely, play unlimited NINJA kid’s classes, unlimited with them on the obstacles, and help open gym, and a dry-fit T-shirt. And we them progress in their skills. We have have many of the same packages for coaches with backgrounds in competitive adults too!

BRAND NEW NINJA OBSTACLES

We added many different new obstacles to our course at the end of October, and we look forward to people coming and giving the new rig setup a try!

We will also be running our PD day camps for each TVDSB P.A. and P.D. day.

The cost for the day is $55, or you can buy a package of 5 for $245 and can be used for anyone in the same family!

Come out and test those NINJA skills!

www.ctcobstacles.ca

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

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

Todd Devlin Alyssa MacLeod Britt Cobean

CONTRIBUTORS Richelle Hirlehey, Kim Benke, Fraser Weir, Scot Bowman, Metaxas Makedos, Jonathan Brimmell, Mike Berdan, Al Gratton, Cassidy Martin, Kalley Armstrong, Mike Shewan, Forest City Diving Club, The Little Gym of London, Eager Beaver Baseball Association, Senior Ryder Cup, Centrefield Sports, Forest City Volleyball Club, Athletic Fluency, George Bray Sports Association, NorWest Soccer, London Gymnastics Academy, London Heat Cheerleading, Sport Clips London, London District Baseball Association, CTC Obstacles, Middlesex Swimming, London Lightning, Delaware RiverCats, Elgin Middlesex Soccer Association, Millars Law, World Performers Canada, Curling Canada, London Minor Lacrosse Association, Forest City Gymnastics Club, City of London Municipal Golf, Big Game Road Trips, London Curling Club, The Hood Archery Games, Komoka Kings Hockey Club, BMO Centre, London Mens Baseball League, FC LONDON, London Minor Football Association, Power Cheer Gym, CheerStrike, Olympic Karate, London Aquatic Club, the SportsXpress Team and local sports enthusiasts.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS Amber Newcombe, Chris Helwig, Jessica Sturt-Smith, Mike Pachucki, Bob Kopf, Art Szczepanik, Camera Canada, Picture Day Photography, Dance Extreme, Family Karate, Centrefield Sports, London Senior Games, Snipe Academy, Forest City Gymnastics Club, Forest City Volleyball Club, FC LONDON, Curling Canada, Millars Law, London Curling Club, City of London Municipal Golf, George Bray Sports Association, London District Baseball Association, Forest City Diving Club, CTC Obstacles, The Little Gym of London, Woodstock Strikers Soccer, Big Game Road Trips, Komoka Kings Hockey Club, London Gymnastics Academy, London Heat Cheerleading, St. Joseph's Catholic High School, London Minor Lacrosse Association, London Lightning, Elgin Middlesex Soccer Association, The Hood Archery Games, Sport Clips London, Middlesex Swimming, London Knights, London Mens Baseball League, Olympic Karate, London Minor Football Association, CheerStrike, Power Cheer Gym, London Aquatic Club, the SportsXpress Team, various sports group photographers and community sports fans.

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

NINJA class at CTC Obstacles, London’s first and only obstacle gym!

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

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Next level training Submitted by Athletic Fluency Located in the heart of downtown, Athletic Fluency is London’s newest specialty gym. While we welcome all individuals looking to improve their physical fitness, we pride ourselves on our sportspecific training program.

We base our training philosophy for individual athletes and for teams around the idea of athletic fluency. By this we

Chase Brown - RB - NCAA - Western Michigan University

are referring to an athlete’s ability to perform specific movements and skills within their respective sport as easily and swiftly as possible. We approach training by breaking down and teaching the fundamentals of speed, agility, power, strength and mobility/flexibility – all components that play a vital role in athletic performance.

Our diversified trainers work with athletes of all levels, from local youth teams to individuals who are progressing through USports, NCAA, NHL, NFL, CFL, AHL, NBL, and more.

Here’s a look at a few top athletes from London that we train …

www.athleticfluency.com

Sydney Brown - DB - NCAA - University of Illinois

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Brett Welychka - Forward - ECHL - Indy Fuel

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JUMP TO SUPPORT! SKY ZONE FUNdraiser MONDAYS - THURSDAYS 3pm - 10pm Let Sky Zone London host your FUNdraising event and help you raise the funds your organization needs! Invite your guest to join you on your specific FUNdraising night and $5 from each$20-60 minute jump pass will go back to the organization !

PRICING: $20 (tax inc.) per jumper (includes Sky Socks for jumper) (minimum 50 jumpers) $5 per jumper goes back to the organization.

784 Wharncliffe Rd S. London ON N6J 2N4

BOOK TODAY: 519.914.9663 eventslondon@skyzone.com

All jumpers must have a valid waiver on file, those under 18 must have one completed by a parent/legal guardian.

LONDON BLUE DEVILS INTRODUCES A NEW ACADEMY PROGRAM

We are currently running our 8 week Fall session located at Silverwoods Arena. We have instructors from Nationwide Lacrosse - Shawn Evans, Turner Evans, Jake Withers and Toronto Rock - Reid Rheinholdt, Brad Kri, Challen Rogers, Jordan Magnusson and Western Mustangs - Cody Ward. If you are interested in our upcoming TRY lacrosse clinics, PD day camps or our 4 vs 4 Christmas Tournament please check out our social media page for updates.

@london_lax

@LondonLAX

@London_Lax

www.londonlacrosse.com

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Fall ball caps off great year Submitted by London Mens Baseball League The London Mens Baseball League wrapped up its 2018 season on Sept 23 with the three final games being played – under ideal conditions – at Dan Pulham Stadium.

New champions were crowned this year in each final, showing that the league is accomplishing its goal of team parity through its mandated drafting process for new players.

Things kicked off at noon with the B Championship game between the Tigers and Pirates. It was a fantastic game and perfect way to begin Championship Sunday. In the end, the Tigers managed to hang on for a tight 2-1 victory and claim the B title.

Game #2 was the marquee matchup for the A Championship, pairing the Athletics and Aquarium Services in the heavyweight battle for top dog. In the end, the A’s couldn’t overcome an early deficit, and Aquarium Services earned a well-deserved and long awaited A Championship title by a score of 8-4.

Capping off the

2018 LMBL ‘B’ Champions: Tigers

2018 LMBL ‘A’ Champions: Aquarium Services

Detroit Lions

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day was the A Consolation game between the Red Sox and Rays, and this game had a very exciting finish. Trailing 12-11 in the bottom of the final inning, the Rays had the bases loaded and two outs – but they couldn’t complete the comeback. The Red Sox got the final batter to pop-up to third base to end the game and secure the A Consolation win.

It was a fantastic end to a great season. Now it’s time to start planning for next year!

www.lmblbaseball.ca The LMBL is a drafting league, as all new players register as individuals and are allocated to the existing 14 teams in the league through the drafting process in April. We do not accept team entries.

We are a recreational league, but playing experience is recommended. Players must be cognizant of their abilities, as baseball can be a dangerous game for those lacking the basic skills necessary. Our league ranges in age from 30-80.

Registration for 2019 is now open. Visit our website for more information, or to register.

2018 LMBL Consolation ‘A’ Champions: Red Sox

Road Trips vs.

Nov 18

Nov 22

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Off-season training in full swing Submitted by Centrefield Sports With the warmer weather behind us before they fill up, and don’t hesitate to addition to hosting many baseball and and winter approaching all too quickly, look ahead to the new year and secure softball teams, Centrefield is also home Centrefield Sports is the best place to any reservations as soon as possible. to soccer, football, cricket, and so much embrace the off-season months and Many of Centrefield’s familiar faces more. remain on the field without battling the have already locked in their off-season www.centrefieldsports.com elements. reservations by bookMany of the facility’s leagues and ing times on the field clinics got underway in October, and will and in the batting begin again in the months of November cages early, so be sure and December, with new rounds of to give the facility a registration. Don’t forget to secure spots call or send an email as soon as possible! As Centrefield’s sloto secure your own pitch league continues through the winter spot, to ensure that months, the facility will also begin eightyour teams and players week rookie and mosquito leagues for have the times on the the final two months of the year, as well field that they need. In as clinics for hitting and fielding, pitching, and for all skills at the younger age groups.

Looking ahead to the holidays, Centrefield Sports will also host two camps during the Christmas break. One will take place on December 27 and 28, and the second will be hosted by the facility on January 2, 3, and 4. Be sure At Centrefield Sports, young ballplayers have the opportunity to work on their skills during the off-season’s winter months – learning from experienced coaches to lock in your spots and instructors at camps and practice sessions.

Dec 23

Buffalo Bills

Road Trips vs.

Nov 25

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Friendships extend off diamond Submitted by Eager Beaver Baseball Association Although the outdoor baseball season is over, the friendships that developed throughout the year on the diamond will hold strong and true in the offseason.

Throughout the 64 years that the Eager Beaver Baseball Association (EBBA) has been developing baseball skills in London's young players, the bonds of friendship that have developed on teams have long lasted past the final out.

From the Rookie A's, Julien Camara, Ryder Marier, and Owen Sturt-Smith are also classmates at school this year. On the Mosquito A's, Owen Legros and Alex Schieven, teammates from 2017, welcomed Jason Macgregor to the team, and now the three meet after school and on weekends to further their baseball friendship. Zach Duval and Graydon Helwig met on the Mosquito Yankees and quickly became good friends. All are looking forward to continuing their camaraderie into the next season.

Plans for the 2019 EBBA house league season are already underway.

Registration for players 4 through 21 years old will open online at the beginning of January (and in-person at the end of January). Meanwhile, preseason indoor clinics will also begin in January. Please check the EBBA website, at EBBA.ca, for further details!

www.ebba.ca

Photo by Chris Helwig A couple of Yankee ballplayers, (left to right), Zach Duval and Graydon Helwig

Photo by Amber Newcombe A trio of players in the Mosquito division (left to right): Alex Schieven, Owen Legros and Jason Macgregor

Photo by Jessica Sturt-Smith Rookie division players (left to right): Julien Camara, Ryder Marier and Owen Sturt-Smith

Blending competition and fun!

Submitted by the Delaware RiverCats and photo by Mike Pachucki There is now another option for Novice girls (b. 2005/2006) who are looking to play competitive fastpitch softball in the London area. Currently based out of

Delaware (in the DKMB Association), the RiverCats finished their inaugural season with a 3-1-1 record at the Provincials in Barrie in August.

The RiverCats offer a great opportunity to play competitive softball without the high costs and excessive travel for parents. If you are looking for a blend of good fastball but, like many parents, value the precious summer weekends, then the RiverCats are the team for The Delaware RiverCats Girls Novice Softball Team won bronze at their Stratford tournament this summer. Team members include: Jaime Zurna, Isabella Eckert, Masyn Strouse, Nicole Adams, Rachel Griffith, Laila Pachucki, Angelina Martinez, you. Although Sidney Thompson, Grace Howes, Ruby Knight, Trinity Doxtator

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not a part of the Grand Valley or HuronPerth league, the team competes in five or six tournaments per season within the Provincial Women’s Softball Association of Ontario (PWSA), primarily in the Western-Ontario region.

In addition to tournaments, the RiverCats play in a dozen or so exhibition games during the season. The typical summer week includes two practices or a practice plus a game. The team is not just about skill development and winning.

The coaching staff places great emphasis on creating a positive experience for all the girls. The team has a focus on respectful conduct, being a good teammate and, of course, having fun!

Tryouts for the 2019 season will be announced shortly. Please contact coach Ryan Griffith (rg10599@icloud.com) or Jodi Sinclair at (jodi.sinclair@rogers.com) for additional information.

www.dkmb.ca

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Exciting season in St. Thomas Submitted by LDBA Baseball The 2018 baseball season was definitely one to remember for all involved within the St. Thomas Minor Baseball Association (STMBA), as the organization was showcased locally, regionally, and even on the national stage.

St. Thomas Minor Baseball saw its highest registration numbers in the last several years, with just over 600 participants across both the travel and house league programs, which enjoyed strong seasons on the diamond. On the house league side, STMBA fielded 10 T-ball teams, 16 rookie teams, five teams in mosquito, four in peewee, three in bantam, and two at the midget level.

Meanwhile, our travel baseball program also experienced growth in 2018, with the additional of a second minor rookie ball team – and, for the first time, a true mosquito select team – to round out the slate of 10 teams.

Our travel teams represented the city and the organization exceptionally well this season. Competing at championships throughout the province, our minor rookie, major rookie, and major mosquito teams all captured Ontario Championship gold medals by winning their respective

championships. The Cardinals minor mosquito team was an OBA finalist and took home silver.

In August, St. Thomas Minor Baseball hosted the TD 21u National Men’s Championship at Cardinal Field and Emslie Field. Ten teams from across the country took part in one of Baseball Canada’s most prestigious events. And though the event got off to a tough start with rain and wet fields causing issues with scheduling, in true STMBA fashion, the organizing committee, along with over 65 volunteers, stepped up and pulled off one of the best National Championship events hosted in 2018.

The organization is now working on the completion of an offseason indoor training facility for the members of our program. The Power Alley is STMBA’s new indoor home for offseason workouts and tryouts. This 6,500 square foot facility will have five batting cages and field space for its members and others to use for skill development and extra winter workouts.

STMBA will also be holding its tryouts in 2019 for the first time indoors in the city. The organization has contributed to

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

the outdoor facilities over the last number of years, and this was the next logical place to develop. For more information on the facility, you can visit poweralley.ca.

As we start to plan for the 2019 season, we want to thank all of the volunteer coaches and board members for all their time and hard work. Without you, we could not offer all our programs and teams. And to the parents and players, thank you for a great 2018. We’re now looking forward to an even better 2019!

www.ldbabaseball.ca

St. Thomas Minor Baseball now has an indoor facility for offseason training. It’s called the Power Alley, and the 6,500 square foot space includes five batting cages and an area for defensive practice.

Three St. Thomas travel teams won Ontario championships in 2018, including the minor rookie, major rookie, and major mosquito teams.

Historic Emslie Field (along with Cardinal Field) hosted the prestigious Baseball Canada 21u National Men’s Championship in August.

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Competitive play across the District Submitted by Elgin Middlesex Soccer Association Although the outdoor soccer season for 2018 has ended, the memories will live on. We can all be proud of the victories and accomplishments achieved throughout the District. We saw soccer teams from across the province play in some very competitive games during the Ontario Summer Games, hosted here in London. Also, our young game officials were well-represented and performed exceptionally on the pitch.

The Youth League (EMDSL) had another great season with events that were well-planned and executed. It was evident from the level of play on the field that skill development was being enhanced. This led to more competitive play. EMDSL has taken the initiative of introducing a new format of play for the Indoor season, and this has attracted teams from other Districts.

The Women's League had another great season. There was an exhibition of strong competitive play amongst the usual rivals, combined with a high level of camaraderie. The governance of the league continues to be strong under the new Leadership team. Congratulations to all the Division and Cup winners!

The Men's League, meanwhile, continues to be a competitive hotbed in each division. The usual fierce rivalries were re-ignited this year, and this was evident in most divisions, producing good competitive and entertaining soccer.

Congratulations and thanks to coaches, managers and players for your high level of commitment and performance.

A very special recognition goes to the Caribbean Stars for their hard work, dedication and fluid style of play which saw them move to Division One after three years of being in the league.

The London Ontario Soccer League (LOSL) had a very competitive and funfilled season, driven in part by some divisional changes that were implemented. Congratulations to the London Irish Premier and London Irish First Division for winning their respective divisions.

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Special congratulations to the Yezidi Team for winning the Division 1 Playoffs.

And a special thanks to all for their hard work and dedication to the sport of soccer!

The Masters League continues to be another competitive circuit. There were some very strong and fierce rivalries amongst clubs that resulted in some close games. Congratulations to all the winners and participants for another outstanding year.

Finally, a big thank you to players, parents, coaches, managers, spectators and sponsors for their continued involvement in the game of soccer.

www.emsadistrict.com

London player Dino Hajdarpasic has joined the Vancouver Whitecaps FC Academy.

Woodstock Strikers and the Brantford soccer team. The 2 teams work closely together having joint practices and many exhibition games. The players know each other well.

The WOSL Second Division league champions pose for photos with their winning trophy

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Get in line, Online!

Submitted by Sport Clips London Sport Clips Haircuts, London’s leading men’s and boys’ hair care provider, has launched an online check-in system for new and existing clients to claim a spot in line for haircare services at their clos-

est location.

Check in can be done via desktop, tablet or mobile by visiting www.SportClips. ca/checkin and doesn't require downloading an app to a mobile device. To

check-in, clients will go to the main page and, after allowing Sport Clips to identify their location or postal code, see an option to select their preferred store from a map and select the check-in button.

Upon their first online check-in, clients will be asked to create an account, and the information is saved to speed up the future check-in process. Online check-in is available after stores open and ends one hour before store closing time.

To find out more about Sport Clips' new online check-in, visit www.

SportClips.ca/checkin.

Open every day, Sport Clips Haircuts has three locations in London (all locally owned and operated): 1985 Hyde Park Rd, 1103 Adelaide St. N, and 3059 Wonderland Rd S.

www.sportclips.ca

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

• •

December 27 to January 5 - Men, Women & Co-ed $250 per team Registration by December 10 (online or at the BMO Centre)

• Dec. 27 to January 5 • Boys and Girls divisions in: U8 to U18, $250 per team (includes hst)

$450 per team 9 vs 9 • Registration by December 10 (online or at the BMO Centre)

Limited number of teams available and divisions may fill up fast - ACT NOW! Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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

Year of Birth

Division

Training Days

Match Days

Register before February

Register in February or Mach

Active Start 1 on 1 (Parent Assisted)

2016 2015

U3 U4

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

-

$75

$100

Active Start 3 vs 3

2014 2013

U5 U5B & U6G

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

Wed. 6:00PM

$125

$150

2012

U7B U7G

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

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

U8B U8G

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

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

$150

$175

2011 2010

U9B U9G

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

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

U10B U10G

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

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

$150

$175

2009 2008 2007

U11B U12B

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

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

2008 2007

U11G U12G

$150

$175

Wed. 6:30PM

Mon. 6:30PM

2005-2006

U14B U14G

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

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

$150

$175

2002-2004

U17B U17G

-

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

U21M U21W

$125

-

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

$100

1998-2001

*FUNdamentals 5 vs 5

*Learn 2 Train 7 vs 7

*Learn 2 Train 9 vs 9

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

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

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

Summer of winning Contributions by Metaxas Makedos Impressive might be understating the success that the Woodstock Strikers U13 Girls soccer team (b. 2005) enjoyed in 2018. Following a dominating indoor season, in which the team went a perfect 170-0 during regular season play and then swept the playoffs to win the District Cup, the Strikers didn’t miss a beat when they headed outdoors to compete in regional play for the first time.

In fact, in their debut season in the WOSYL Inter District league (and their first experience playing full field 11 v 11 soccer), the girls finished atop the

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as our two fantastic goalies, Adreana and Grace,” said Metaxas Makedos, the team’s head coach.

Victoria Cabral and Ava Makedos led the Strikers in scoring with 14 goals each (tied for second in the league), while Sophia Viveiros also finished top 10 in the league with eight goals on the season.

standings with 42 points overall. Playing their home games at Cowan Park, the Strikers went 14-2-0 in their 16 games, finishing ahead of Windsor (12-2-2 for 38 points) for top spot. The Woodstock girls recorded a league-best 55 goals along the way, while also allowing the fewest against (11).

How did they allow so few goals against?

“It was really a big commitment by our group of defenders who work The Woodstock Strikers girls soccer team did a whole lot of winning last summer and fall, winning their league title and earning championship trophies in four different tournaments extremely hard, as well Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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Plans in progress for ‘19 Submitted by FC LONDON It’s quite an achievement when both FC LONDON League1 teams have seasons that put them at the top of the standings. Add to that wins in the U21 and U17 divisions and you’ve got the makings of a long-term sustainable program where players are showcasing their skills at the youth level – knowing that their semi-pro counterparts are among the top teams in the country. In other words, FC LONDON has created a solid pathway for its players.

“I’m proud of what we achieved this year,” said Mike Marcoccia, the head coach of both the men’s and women’s League1 teams. “The women going undefeated was a first for the league.

Meanwhile, seeing what some of our youth teams were able to achieve gives me confidence that we’re going to see

more hardware in the years to come.”

Combined, FC LONDON’s League1 teams recorded 23 wins, 3 ties and only 2 losses during the regular season, with a plus-50 rating along the way (78 goals for, 28 against). Unfortunately, the squads didn’t continue that success in either the League1 Cup or the league championships, with both teams being eliminated in one-goal games.

“We had to change fields for the championship games, as the ‘Cove’ field [German Canadian Club Stadium] was undergoing renovations,” said Marcoccia.

“The bounces didn’t go our way, but we have no excuses. Now our focus is on bigger things in the 2019 season ahead.”

One of those bigger things is the new Canadian Professional League, which starts play in 2019 and opens the door

London’s League1 men’s team celebrates with FC LONDON Superfans

And then there was tournament play …

The Strikers were dominant in a number of tournaments, winning four in total throughout the summer and fall. In early June, the girls won the Peterborough Challenge Cup, winning five straight games – including the gold medal final, in which they beat Durham FC on penalty kicks.

Woodstock won a trio to games in the Georgetown Tournament to capture that title (with a 4-0 win over Orangeville), and also went undefeated in the Brantford Tournament to win gold there as well. An exciting 1-0 win over the host team in a sudden-death final was the clincher in that tourney.

And then the Strikers capped off their season in late September with a fourth tournament victory at the Woodbridge

www.fclondon.ca

FC LONDON’s U17 Provincial OASL Champions

Classic, again going a perfect 5-0 and winning the gold-medal final 1-0 over Croatia Norval.

In other words, winning was the name of the game this year for the Woodstock Strikers, and the U13 Girls team enjoyed their entire season, which also included participation in the Ontario Cup and the British Soccer Team Camp (in August).

The future is certainly bright for this group of girls – both on and off the pitch.

The team’s coach, says the team’s success was due to a number of factors.

“First, it was the players’ dedication and passion to learn the game, always being committed to learning – both on and off the field,” Makedos said. “And we had true dedication from parents to being part of the plan for short and longterm success. And, of course, Woodstock

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for elite players to gain ‘professional status,’ an important first step to playing not only in Canada, but overseas as well.

“On the youth side, we’ll have over 400 boys and girls in our program next year,” says FC LONDON CEO Ian Campbell. “From U8 to U21, we’ll be training several times a week, starting in November, focusing on skills and decision-making using the same ‘periodization’ program that Mike is using with the adult teams.”

Ontario Soccer has announced that the Ontario Soccer Conference will take place in London in 2019, which will provide a great opportunity for London coaches, referees and players to hear about the future of the Canadian soccer landscape directly from those who are helping to raise the bar and lay the youth program groundwork for future Canadian soccer success.

The Strikers capped off their impressive season by winning a tournament in Woodbridge at the end of September

Soccer creates a fantastic competitive program for all teams to thrive.”

Now (late fall), the 2005 girls are in the final stages of finalizing their team roster.

If you are interested, please visit: www.woodstocksoccer.com/ competitive-soccer/youth

www.woodstocksoccer.com

London.SportsXpress.ca

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sportsfiles

Summer success, Winter Games ahead

By Kim Benke, for London Senior Games London (District 30) representatives won a total of 9 awards at the Ontario Sr. Games held in Mississauga this past August. Medalists included …

Gold: R. Paterson (5 km Cycling); A. Gray & M. Brennan (Cribbage); J. Young & S. Ronson (Dbls Lawn Bowling); C. Jonkhans & M. Gomez (Women’s Dbls Tennis) Silver: J. Rayner (8 Ball); D. Cameron (Snooker); A&R Reid, Harris, McNaughton, Addison, C&C Andress, Raheb, Lupa, Nix, Wakabyashi, Vecchio (Slo Pitch) Bronze: D. Smale (5 Pin Bowling); D. Kidd & J. Denning (Mixed Dbls Tennis) Now it’s time for the London Senior

Jean & Barry at Shuffleboard

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Games – Winter season. All Londoners Lupa, at 519-453-1566. Like us on aged 55+ in 2019 are eligible. Winners Facebook! from these events (*) qualify for the You’re sure to have a good time, Ontario Sr. Games in Huntsville on March meet new people, and enjoy friendly 5-7, 2019. Registration forms are availcompetition. able online. One low fee gets you into as www.londonseniorgames.com many events as you like. This year we are trying something Dec. 3 – Mixed Dbls Badminton (*) COME PLAY WITH US! new – a Fitness Dec. 6 – M & W Dbls Badminton (*) London Senior Games 55+ Challenge hosted by Jan. 14 – Euchre Winter 2018 Schedule: the new YMCA. As a Jan. 18 – Wii Bowling Nov. 7 – Squash participant, you can Jan. 21 – Crokinole Nov. 7 – Women’s Hockey (*) test your strength Jan. 29 – Darts Nov. 8 – Table Tennis (*) Feb. 4 – Bid Euchre and cardio health Nov. 17 – Snooker Feb. 10 – Fitness Challenge with age-appropriate Nov. 21 – Prediction Skating (*) Feb. 20 – Cribbage and fun activities.

Nov. 22 – Volleyball (*) Feb. TBD – Swimming Nov. 24 – Duplicate Bridge Go to our website Alpine Skiing (*) – TBD Nov. 24 – 10 Pin Bowling (*) or call our District Curling (*) – TBD Dec. 3 – 8 Ball Coordinator, Mitch

Jean & Doug at Mixed Tennis (Bronze

Otto & Kim with Pachi at Pickleball

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Myrna & Catherine – Tennis Gold

sportsfiles

Unforgettable team-building Submitted by The Hood Archery Games The Hood Archery Games is doing what they do best this season – bringing teams together for epic social events! Did you know that Archery and Nerf Wars are awesome team-building activities?

Everyone knows that good teams work together well – on the court or on the ice.

But team-building is about more than just drills and exercises. Taking part in team-

building events away from the ice – like at The Hood Archery Games – is just as important for building good team dynamics. It allows players to get to know each other in a different – and sometimes more relaxed – environment. And it often allows players to focus on different skills than they are used to, or to take on different roles than they normally do. In other

words, it allows them to break out of their comfort zone.

Team-building events also help to foster friendly competition between teammates. And, of course, it helps to promote friendships and sense of comradery.

With game modes facilitated by one of the deputies, players will work together to accomplish objectives while trying to defeat the other team (in a fun way) during their session. The Hood Archery Games also offers a discount partnership with Boston Pizza so that you can feed those hungry players afterwards at the London South location. Contact The Hood Archery Games to plan your next team event!

THE HOOD ARCHERY GAMES 1116 Dearness Drive #20, London ON 519-681-4663

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Team-building events – away from the ice or the court (or the boardroom) – can be crucial in developing teamwork skills and promoting a sense of comradery.

The Hood Archery Games is now proud to offer groups team-building outings to help accomplish those very things.

Calendar of Events

contact London@SportsXpress.ca

Proudly Sponsored by

November 8 London Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, Carousel Room

November 27-December 3 27th Annual Barry Hall Basketball Tournament: U14, Various locations

January 11-12 Dominoes Sr Boys Basketball Tournament, Fanshawe College

November 8-11 London Lynx Ringette Tournament, Western Fair Sports Centre

November 30 - December 2 LMHA Dan Pullham Memorial, Various arenas

January 11-13 Neil Barker Memorial Tournament, Western Fair Sports Centre

November 9-11 Bob Stark Novice Classic, Oakridge Arena

December 1 Santa Shuffle Walk/Run, John Paul II High School

January 18-19 Vaughn Peckham Sr Girls Volleyball Tournament,Fanshawe College

December 2-8 Canadian Tire Para Hockey Cup, Western Fair Sports Centre

January 18-20 Byron Optimist Competitive Tournament, Various arenas

December 27-30 Annual Indoor Scrooge Soccer Tournament U8-U12, BMO Centre

January 24 41st Annula Sports Spectacular, St. Anne's Centre in St. Thomas

December 29-30 2018 Holiday Classic, London Sports Park

January 25-27 Blizzard Sledge Hockey Invitational, Western Fair Sports Centre

November 16-18 North London Classic, Western Fair Sports Centre November 16-18 OCAA Badminton Invitational, Fanshawe College November 17 Goodlife Spin for Kids, Budweiser Gardens November 18 London Lightning Home Opener vs St. John's Edge, Budweiser Gardens November 23-25 London Devilettes Senior Fall Classic, Western Fair Sports Centre November 24 3rd Annual Boots & Brooms Bonspiel, London Curling Club

January 1 London Knights vs Sarnia Sting, Bud Gardens January 2-5 Annual Indoor Scrooge Soccer Tournament U8-U12, BMO Centre January 3-6 Woodstock Wildcats Tournament, Southwood & Civic Arenas

February 1-3 London Devilettes Girls Hockey Tournament, Western Fair Sports Centre February 8-10 Oakridge Aeros House League Classic, Various arenas February 9 Hockey Day in Canada, Swift Current

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February 15-17 Annual Barry Hall Girls Classic (Basketball) U13, U14, U16 & U19, Various locations February 15-18 The London RV Show, Agriplex - Western Fair District February 18 Family Day Adult Co-ed Soccer Tournament, BMO Centre February 22-24 London Boat, Fishing and Leisure Show, Western Fair District February 22-24 Annual Barry Hall Girls Classic (Basketball) U10, U11 & U12, Various locations

London.SportsXpress.ca

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teamprofiles

Lucky number three?

Submitted by the London Lightning The 2018-2019 National Basketball League of Canada (NBLC) season tips off in mid-November, and the London Lightning are looking to make headlines – all season long. The Lightning could

The London Lightning feature a mix of new and familiar faces in 2018-19 as the team pursues an unprecedented third straight NBL championship title

become the first team in league history to win three straight league championships (the Lightning actually had this opportunity once before, back in 2013-2014).

This season will bring plenty of excitement for Lightning fans.

With a mix of new and old faces, the Lightning are expecting once again to be a contender throughout the year. Returning veterans Martin Dixon-Green and Kirk Williams Jr. will be joined by new talents Kevin Ware, AJ Gaines, and Jelan Kendrick, to name a few. Returning head coach Keith Vassell is also very optimistic about the season.

“We worked hard in the offseason to put together another strong team,” said Vassell. “We have a very talented group who has a strong desire to win. We’re going to be an exciting team to watch.”

The Lightning will be facing a new opponent this season, as Sudbury is the newest city to join the league. The first

look to see the Sudbury Five in London will be on January 6, 2019 when the Five will take on the Lightning at Budweiser Gardens.

The Lightning regular season runs from November 18 (a home game against the St. John’s Edge) until March 31 (a home contest against the rival Windsor Express). For tickets and more information about the London Lightning, visit www.lightningbasketball.ca and follow us on social media!

www.lightningbasketball.ca

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Passion in the pool Submitted by Middlesex Swimming Middlesex Swimming athletes are excited to be back in the pool training for what should be an action-packed and thrilling 2018-19 season, with opportunities for swimmers and water polo players alike to improve – both inside and outside of the pool – and enjoy many competitive experiences.

Located in London, St. Marys and Stratford, Middlesex Swimming is a competitive Swim, Water Polo and Masters Club. The organization offers professional coaching and technique instruction with programs for all ages.

This year, an expansion of new practice times will open up further possibilities at the Boys & Girls Club of London for the Middlesex Swimming program moving forward.

The program is looking to build off a successful spring season in which the men’s team was named ‘most improved team’ at the AA championships. The

club’s athletes are all looking to continue their success in the pool and be the best that they can be in 2018-19.

Middlesex Swimming includes a roster of athletes all the way from age 5 up to Master’s-level athletes who all share a passion for swimming and/or water polo.

Regardless of age, they develop skills like commitment and hard work, and graduates of the program remain active in the pool for life.

Middlesex Swimming one of only a handful of Clubs in Canada to offer both swimming and water polo. The Middlesex Masters group is a FINA-recognized Masters Team, and is considered one of the best Masters swim clubs in Canada.

For more information about the Middlesex Swimming Club, visit middlesexswimming.ca or email info@middlesexswimming.ca.

Evan MacArthur (left) and Ethan Jatnzi show off the award for most improved Men’s team, which the Middlesex Swimming squad won at the AA championships last spring

www.middlesexswimming.ca

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sportsfiles

Hardware for hard work Submitted by the London Aquatic Club The London Aquatic Club celebrated their very successful 2017-18 swimming year with their annual Awards Banquet at the Hellenic Community Centre on October 21.

The club is one of London’s longeststanding and most prolific sports organizations, having produced champion swimmers and fine ambassadors for the city of London since 1947.

Of the many accolades bestowed upon our 250+ swimmers at the banquet, some of the major awards include: The Megan Holliday Spirit Award, donated by the Holliday family through the London Community Foundation in memory of their amazing daughter, a national team member and double bronze medalist at the 1989 Pan-American Games; The Paul Midgley Award of Excellence, which goes to the top swimmer in the club

(for the 5th year in succession it was Maggie MacNeil); and the inaugural Ken Fitzpatrick True Sport Award, donated by Londoner and 1984 Canadian Olympic Swim team captain Ken Fitzpatrick.

www.londonaquaticclub.ca

Fitzpatrick Award winner Emma and Holliday Award winner Madelaine

Jim Fitzpatrick and special guest speaker, Olympic bobsled gold medalist Alexander Kopasz, present the Fitzpatrick True Sport Award to Emma Clark.

In October, the London Aquatic Club – one of the city’s longest-standing sports organizations – handed out their annual awards at a banquet at the Hellenic Community Centre

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The key? Great coaching

a National Level diver for Team China and has also worked with National Diving teams from Indonesia and Venezuela. He brings forth new ideas and expertise that will continue to strengthen the FCDC program for all athletes, whether competitive and recreational. Wing has a young family with two children.

Submitted by Forest City Diving Club Forest City Diving Club (FCDC) is a nationally-recognized club that produces high performance athletes. Over the past few years, FCDC has been ranked between No. 3 and No. 8 in the country – thanks to the results of their athletes at Junior National Diving Championships.

And the Club has been ranked No. 1 in Ontario.

The success of its athletes is due to a high-calibre coaching staff. Luda

Forest City Diving Club coaches Luda Zakharenko (right) and Wing Yun Hu are the driving force behind a successful program that continually produces talented divers – both competitive and recreational

Zakharenko has been with FCDC since 2009. She has brought to the club her own personal international experience as a National level diver and the experience from serving as the Principal of the Belarussian State Academy of Sports.

Luda has been the driving force in instilling the passion of diving in her young athletes and leading them to success at the National and International levels.

Luda has been awarded Coach of the Year by Dive Ontario on several occasions, and she is a recipient of the ‘Good to Great’ Coach Award from the Coaches Association of Ontario. During her spare time, she enjoys visiting her family in Ottawa, where she has two grandsons.

Meanwhile, the newest member of the FCDC coaching staff is Wing Yun Hu. Wing came to the Club right after the 2016 Rio Olympics after retiring as the head coach of the Venezuelan National Team. Wing, who is originally from Wuhan, China, was

The PLOUF Program With the Club’s wealth of knowledge and experience, the FCDC recreational program, PLOUF, has developed into a strong foundation program that offers the fundamentals of diving to emerging new divers – who may either wish to pursue a competitive stream or simply enjoy the exhilaration of jumping off the high boards.

The program has demonstrated a track record of success and has been instrumental in generating competitive athletes. The PLOUF program sells out quickly, so don’t delay and register your child today!

www.forestcitydiving.com

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sportsfiles

Prestigious honour for Inch Contributions by Curling Canada This fall, Peter Inch was one of three builders inducted into the prestigious Canadian Curling Hall of Fame. Each of the three inductees, including Inch – a Londoner – have greatly contributed behind the scenes to the growth of curling in Canada, and they were honoured during a celebration banquet at Curling Canada’s National Curling Congress in Ottawa.

The other two inductees were Patricia Ray, who spent 29 years as the Chief Operating Officer at Curling Canada, and

the late David Beesley, who worked as the organization’s National Sponsorship Sales Director for a quarter-century.

“These three names might not be familiar to curling fans, but to those people who work inside the boards at curling championships across Canada, Peter, Patricia and David have played hugely significant roles in making our sport what it is today,” said Scott Comfort, Chair of Curling Canada’s Awards and Hall of Fame Committee. “It’s truly gratifying to be able to honour Peter, Patricia and

Peter Inch (back, red jacket) poses with Team Canada’s Holman Team who went undefeated at the Women’s World Championship in 2017 in winning the gold medal

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London.SportsXpress.ca

David and recognize their efforts over the years, and to ensure that their contributions are not forgotten.”

Inch has been involved with curling at the highest levels in Canada for many years, working tirelessly on behalf of the sport in London, his hometown, and beyond. Among other roles, he chaired the host committee for the 2002 Canadian Senior Men’s and Women’s Championships in St. Thomas, and he helped organize the 2006 Scott Tournament of Hearts and the 2011 Tim Hortons Brier – both championship events in London.

Peter, who serves as the general manager at Roy Inch & Sons Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing in London, was first elected to Curling Canada’s Board of Governors during the 2013 National Curling Congress in Ottawa. He served as the Chair for the 2016-17 season, a role he prepared for over the years through countless volunteer hours put into the sport of curling.

“My goal has always been to make a difference in the curling community,” said Inch. “I feel extremely humbled and honoured to receive this recognition and join the many exceptional men and women of the past and present in the Curling Canada Hall of Fame.”

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Bentley Hearing gets active The London Curling Club

Learning from legends In October, the London Curling Club had the opportunity to host the Academy of Curling, an event that featured a trio of curling greats. Those in attendance included: Russ Howard, a two-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist, and a curling analyst on TSN; Mary-Anne Arsenault, a five-time Canadian champion and two-time world champion; and Grant Odishaw, who played in eight Brier tournaments and is a former Canadian mixed champion.

Over the three days, 180 curlers

Submitted by the London Curling Club

participated in four sessions at the London Curling Club, a facility that offers leagues throughout the day – every day of the week except for Saturday (which is reserved for bonspiels and rentals). The historic Club, which dates all the way back to 1847, currently has more than 600 members.

Interested in the game of curling? Join the Club’s ‘Learn to Curl’ program, which runs Thursday eve-

nings. Call the club at 519-432-3882 to learn more. A two-hour clinic will also take place Nov. 10 from 7-9pm. Call the Club to sign up.

www.londoncurling.ca

The London Curling Club hosted the Academy of Curling in October, welcoming three curling greats – Russ Howard, Mary-Anne Arsenault and Patient Grant Odishaw – for aat three-day event attended by 180 curlers from the region.

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sportsfiles

Popular programs are back!

Submitted by Forest City Volleyball Club Forest City Volleyball Club President, Tom Kerkhoff, welcomes all new athletes and coaches to the 2018-19 Volleyball season! With a record high turnout of athletes at tryouts, the rosters for this Tom Kerkhoff, FCVC season show great potenPresident tial, and we are excited to see all teams develop and compete this season. A special thank you to the incredible lineup of FCVC coaches this season – we are extremely proud of your talent and commitment to growing our compete level in the great game of volleyball. Go FCVC!

Supreme Sunday Series The Supreme Sunday Series, hosted

by Forest City Volleyball Club, is back for another season of fun, inexpensive, scrimmage-based play with great competition to help your team improve their skills. The goal of the program is to provide a supplement to the regular OVA program – by allowing teams to compete in a low-stress environment at a low cost.

Teams play a minimum of three timed matches on the fantastic sport courts of Supreme Courts, in south London. This facility – conveniently located just off the 401 – is the hottest location for youth volleyball in London, and we hope to keep it full of teams during our Supreme Sundays!

Acorn Volleyball The popular Mini Acorn (ages 4-8) and Acorn (ages 9-13) Development programs sold out quickly for Fall sessions. Winter sessions will start in January. For registration info, follow FCVC on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to know so you can act fast to avoid disappointment.

Acorn development is the best place to learn volleyball fundamentals and a love for the game!

FCVC Annual E-School Tournament

• Play-off format is single elimination.

Officials will be senior FCVC athletes.

TVDSB rules of play will apply.

Please contact Bob Mann for more information at: bob_mann@forestcityvolleyball.com.

2018 Girls Event: Saturday, October 27, 2018 Entry fee: $130 @ Supreme Courts

2018 Boys Event:

This annual offering has been a staple of the London and area Elementary School volleyball calendar for almost 20 years! The tournament is inexpensive and competitive, and is a highlight for young male and female volleyball athletes.

Here’s the format: • 8 AM - First match of the day • 4:30 PM - Awards presentation. School banners will be awarded to Gold Medal winner and finalist, and the Silver Medal winner.

• Matches run 25 minutes (5 minutes to switch courts). Within this 25-minute window, teams play one game to 25 (no cap, must win by 2 points). With the remaining time, you play a second game, hopefully giving your bench some court time. The first game to 25 will be the score of record.

• The top two teams in each pool move to the Gold Medal round. The third and fourth place teams move to the Silver Medal round.

Saturday, November 3, 2018 Entry fee: $130 @ Supreme Courts

The Acorn Development program offers a fantastic opportunity for youngsters to learn the fundamental skills of volleyball, all while developing a love for the game!

2018 SUPREME SUNDAY SERIES GIRLS U13

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X

X

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

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sportsfiles

Sportsmanship in the dojo

teammates and opponents alike. The arrogant winner often doesn’t establish friendships with their fellow teammates, and thus loses opportunities for extra practice and growth. By being a respectful competitor, you enhance the connections between those in your sport and open doors for your ongoing success as an athlete.

To reiterate, by practicing sportsmanship you are not competing to win any single match, necessarily, but rather acting in such a way that you will be invited back to play the most amount of games (the game within games, so to speak). In other words, you’re becoming the player that others want to play with.

As a coach of the Family Karate Competition Team, I highly value how sportsmanship guides the actions and attitudes of our competitors. While respecting the traditions of good sport, I also encourage them to reflect on what it means to them in furthering their development as athletes, teammates, and members of the community.

By Scot Bowman for Family Karate sore losers. This sportsmanship ethics is often valued over winning any individual match or game. As the saying goes, ‘it’s not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game.’

For many coaches and athletes, this is intuitive. But why is this the case? Are we being apathetic to winning, or rationalizing our losses to console our egos? Maybe, but I see sportsmanship as the fundamental strategy for not just winning a single game or match, but the optimal strategy for maximizing winning.

It is the practice of investing long-term strategies towards success.

Sport is a social activity.

If an athlete wishes to train and compete with others, he/ she must be willing to coopFamily Karate athletes are taught – at all ages – the importance and value of sportsmanship as they erate and negotiate – with practice and compete. The result is respectful athletes – and people!

The principle of sportsmanship is often stressed to developing athletes – in both competitive and non-competitive arenas.

Respect for opponents, the referees, and the rules of the sport are all encouraged.

We often treat humble winners with adoration, while we wince at the gloaters and

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sportsfiles

Learning while sparring Submitted by Olympic Karate Every karate class should have fitness, Students are also monitored on degree of Students find themselves asking: How focus and fun. When it comes to fun, look force, skill level and size of opponent. do I handle a larger opponent, or a faster no further than sparring. When sparring, Sparring coaches supervise practice or more aggressive opponent? Is my opa student learns to move, think and react and mock matches by demonstrating ponent better with their hands or feet? to an opponent. proper movement, sensible tactics, and And these sparring skills can be used The basic rules of sparring are: correcting mistakes. Students develop in real-life situations if a student is at1. Hands up, elbows down. skill and confidence by working in match- tacked and forced to defend themselves.

2. Move to not be hit. es, practicing proper skills, and watching www.olympickarate.on.ca 3. Keep your centerline mostly other players’ tactics. sideways.

4. Combinations when on offense and defense.

In sparring, a player works to practice their skills on a moving opponent, so safety is important. Each student is required to invest in sparring safety equipment (helmet, gloves, boots and mouthguard).

While sparring, students learn all sorts of skills, including movement, positioning, and how to think and respond to an opponent on the dojo

Dance of a lifetime Contributions by World Performers Canada Laura Moir, a London dancer, is headed for an experience she’ll never forget. The grade 11 student at Catholic Central High School was recently chosen to represent Canada as a member of a World Performers Canada (WPC) national team that will compete in the 2019 World Cup of Dance next summer in Braga, Portugal.

“I am very honoured and humbled to

Laura Moir, a talented dancer from London, has been chosen to represent Canada at the World Cup of Dance in Portugal next summer

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London.SportsXpress.ca

be given this privilege and opportunity of a lifetime,” says Moir, who has been dancing since age 2 (her first experience through the City of London’s Spectrum Recreation Program).

It’s been quite the journey since then for Moir. At 5 years old, she enrolled in recreational dance classes at Dance Extreme, and then was selected at age 7 to join the competitive level and dance with older athletes.

She quickly earned the honour of performing in duets and solos, and it wasn’t long before she was winning awards – not only for her high marks, but also for her artistic abilities and stage presence.

At her first U.S. Nationals in Ocean City MD, she won 1st overall for her Ballet solo, and 3rd overall for her Jazz solo (she also won a Special Award as the ‘Total Package Dancer’).

“I’ve come to realize the many ways that dance has helped me grow as a

person,” says Moir, who is enrolled in the Leadership Exercise and Athletics Program (LEAP) at Catholic Central.

“Dance has built my confidence and I have forged lifetime relationships through my home studio as well as through competitions and pageants. And I have recently begun to realize what it means to be respectful and a good role model to the youngest of dancers just starting their journey.”

Now, Moir is training for an experience of a lifetime. She’ll be part of the World Performers Canada contingent to compete in Braga, Portugal at the 2019 World Cup of Dance next summer (and she’ll be joined by a few other London area dancers). The WPC national team will consist of around 130 dancers – from Mini (ages 8-9) to Senior (18-25) – and represent Canada alongside 50 other countries (and 6,000 athletes).

Moir knows it won’t come without sacrifices. Besides the training, and time spent away from family and friends, she is in the process of raising funds to cover the $4,000 cost for the trip. She’s looking for sponsors, and she’s doing her part as well, to ensure that her experience next summer will be truly unforgettable.

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Battling Southern Ontario’s best Contributions by Senior Ryder Cup and photos by Bob Kopf Sixteen teams battled it out in midSeptember at the 20th annual Senior Ryder Cup (SRC) Championship at the Saugeen Golf Club near Port Elgin, Ontario. When the dust settled, the team from Devil’s Pulpit came away as 2018 champions, scoring 23 out of a possible

St. Thomas Golf & Country Club team

Highland Country Club team

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24 points (the highest Proudly sponsored by point total ever at the SRC event).

Kingsville Golf & Country Club finished points in their match win, while teama close second with 22 points, while the mates Jim Foster and Marty Harris racked Brantford Golf & Country Club team was up five points in their win. The pairing third with 19 points. Two of Mike McKegg and Steve Marks added London and area teams, three points, while Doug Walker and Todd the St. Thomas Golf & Dougherty, the remaining two players on Country Club (15 points) the eight-man team, chipped in a point to and the Highland Country place the St. Thomas contingent in a tie Club (7 points), tied for for sixth place. sixth and tied for 11th, Meanwhile, London’s Highland Country respectively.

Club was led by the pairings of Phil Each of the participatKilleen/Chuck Joynt and Durant D’Intino/ ing teams qualified for Jeff VanVliet, who scored three points the SRC Championship apiece in their respective matches. The through four separate repairings of Steve Stoyanovich/Terry Austin gional playoff events. This (1 point) and Rob Paton/George Harris ensured that the top talent rounded out the eight-man Highland was on hand at Saugeen team, which finished with seven points to Golf Club. This included finish in a tie for 11th place. the two teams from the The Senior Ryder Cup was created in London area.

1999 to provide a tournament for senior And while they didn’t men in Southern Ontario who enjoy come home with any hardcompetitive match play. More than 1,400 ware, they certainly fared senior golfers and 112 golf clubs (expandwell at the Championship ing to 120 in 2019) are proud members of event. The pairing of Steve the Senior Ryder Cup, which is a not-forBrodie and Brian Bowman profit organization run by a dedicated from the St. Thomas Golf volunteer group. & Country Club earned six

www.seniorrydercup.com

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sportsfiles One Amazing Membership 5 Great Courses

Club champions crowned Submitted by City of London Municipal Golf The City of London’s municipal golf courses featured exciting club championship events to close out the year.

Competition was stiff, and each title winner truly earned their championship trophy. Full results, including men’s and women’s events at the three City courses are below…

River Road Club Championship (2018) •

•

•

Overall & Senior Champion: Tim Lane – 73/79 (152) ‘A’ Flight winner: Rob Lalande – 78/76 (154) ‘B’ Flight winner: Joe Komaromi – 76/77 (153)

•

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‘C’ Flight winner: Frank Jewell – 86/79 (165) ‘D’ Flight winner: David Mori – 88/87 (175)

Fanshawe Club Championship (2018) • •

• • •

• • •

Fanshawe Ladies Club Championship (2018)

Overall Champion: Travis Blake – 68 Overall Senior Champion: Joe Christiaans – 70 ‘A’ Flight winner: Joe Christiaans – 70 ‘B’ Flight winner: Shawn Macauley – 75 ‘C’ Flight winner: Chris Smith – 80 (2nd Playoff Hole) ‘D’ Flight winner: Brian Walls – 85 ‘E’ Flight winner: Monty Scott – 88 Super Senior Champion: Dick Harback – 80

•

• •

Thames Valley Ladies Club Championship •

•

•

•

•

Thames Valley Club Championship (2018)

A group of award winners pose with their hardware after the City of London’s municipal golf courses held their annual Club Championships

• Overall Champion: Pierce Saly – 64 • Overall Senior Champion: Murray Clark – 70 • ‘A’ Flight winner: John Hong – 65 • ‘B’ Flight winner: Shawn McKenzie – 75 • ‘C’ Flight winner: Dirk Devries – 82 • ‘D’ Flight winner: Brad Wills – 82 • ‘E’ Flight winner: Ed Forrest – 90 • Super Senior Champion: Art Gaus – 74

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Overall & Senior Champion: Amy Egbers – 90 ‘B’ Flight winner: Cheryl Briglia – 97 ‘C’ Flight Winner: Janet LaFleche – 104 (R)

Overall Champion: Kathy Clark – 87/88 (175) Senior Club Champion: Sophie Parsons – 90/91 (181) 0-20 Flight: Freda Donovan – 89/87 (176) 21-29 Flight: Dawn Harvey – 91/96 (187) 30+ Flight: Sharon White – 101/105 (206)

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

Follow us on Twitter: Search ‘CityGolfCourses’ or www.twitter.com/CityGolfCourses

www.london.ca/golf

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IT’S PARTY TIME Book your Birthday Party with us today! Just show up and we’ll do the rest. It’s that simple. All birthday guests will experence jumping, flying and flipping on our wall to wall courts. Experience the Foam Zone, filled with 10,000 foam cubes, dunk like a pro on the SkySlam, ninja across the Warrior Course, and lots, lots more!

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EXTRA ITEMS: • Additional Pizza $23.00 • Additional pitcher of pop $5.50 • Dippin’ Dots $4.50 each • Printed Invitations $5/15 • Loot bags $8.50 each • Additional Sky Socks $3.50/pair • 30 minutes on a private court $50 • 60 minutes on a private court $100

BOOK TODAY: 519.914.9663 eventslondon@skyzone.com

All jumpers must have a valid waiver on file, those under 18 must have one completed by a parent/legal guardian.

No outside food or drinks allowed (except cake/cupcakes) Deposit required at time of booking.

PD DAY CAMPS  Friday November 16, 2018  Friday April 5, 2019 $55.00/Full Day $35.00/Half Day (AM only) $5.00 Before/After After Care Available *Above prices are plus HST

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Camp hours are Full: 8:30-4:30 Half AM: 8:30-12:00 12:00 Half PM: 1:00-4:30 Activities include Gymnastics, Crafts, Co o-operative games, Special Guests/Activities, M Movies ovies in the gym, gym Fort Building, Trampoline rampoline fun & lots more.

Register your child today for a fun packed program that allows children to meet new friends & try new things. Camp is fully supervised by our certified coaches.

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

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Prepping kids for school Submitted by The Little Gym of London At The Little Gym, our mantra is ‘Springboard To Life’s Adventures.’

The main goal of our programs is to prepare kids socially, cognitively, and physically for whatever it is that they want to pursue in the future. Nothing fits this mantra better than our School Readiness Program, which we call WonderKids Club™.

If you have a 3 or 4-year-old who will be entering the school system in the fall of 2019, your child has a rather big change coming in their lives. And so do you, as parents! This big step can be an anxious time for both the parent, who is anticipating it, and for the child on his or her first day of school.

Why not get your child prepared and let them have a bit of fun along the way? That is what this program is for.

WonderKids Club™ is a preschool or

kindergarten prep program that extends The Little Gym experience with active learning and centre activities, arts and crafts projects, and various art media, story time, and creative play with LEGO® DUPLO® bricks. Our immersive play and learning activities help prepare kids for success in school. For parents, WonderKids Club™ provides a few hours of much-needed grown-up time and the confidence that your child is happy and growing in a safe, structured, familiar environment.

WonderKids is a three-hour, once or twice per week (your choice) program.

The first and final hours are spent in our Multi-Purpose Room, and the middle 50 minutes features one of our famous Funny Bugs classes, where the children will be active in the gym learning some gymnastics-based skills. They’ll learn to

take turns, follow directions, and be led by an experienced teacher – all to help prepare them for school.

WonderKids Club™ at The Little Gym is offered Mondays from 9:15am – 12:15pm and Thursdays from 9:30am – 12:30pm.

The cost is $18+HST per session, plus the cost of the Funny Bugs class registration.

If you book 10 sessions at a time, you pay even less. Visit our website at www.tlglondoncan.com and give us a call today and try it out! 519-642-0660. And for the perfect gift, we sell gift cards!

The Little Gym of London is located in Sherwood Forest Mall at Wonderland and Gainsborough Roads in northwest London. We can’t wait to hear from you soon!

www.tlglondoncan.com

The WonderKids Club™ program at The Little Gym of London is a fantastic way for young children to engage in learning activities and games as a way to prepare for entering school for the first time.

sportsfiles

We’re flipping for fall!

Submitted by London Gymnastics Academy

Ready for our first competition in Kalahari!

Competitive gymnasts gearing up for tour selection in November!

Try out our new Ninja program!

Recreational Cheer 101 & 102

Brand new facility!

Birthday Parties at LGA are exciting and fun!

Winter 2018 Session registration opens beginning of November!

www.londongymnasticsacademy.com Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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sportsfiles

Power Cheer Local Submitted by Power Cheer Gym Power Cheer Gym is well into its 20182019 season! We are located at the edge of Old East Village and embrace our part of this trending brewery and niche shop district of London. #cheerlocal #supportlocal.

Although the gym’s colours are orange, gold and blue, every October Power Cheer Gym turns pink for breast cancer awareness. PCG loves showing its support for causes and events, and breast cancer awareness is certainly an important one for the members of Power Cheer Gym. Meanwhile, the program has also been busy doing its own fundraising. Even during the chilly October weather, PCG’s

Junior 3 Adrenaline team members were out at Marble Slab Masonville fundraising for their team’s costs. A portion (30%) of profits that day went directly to Adrenaline to help with hotel, travel and uniform costs for their upcoming competition season. J3 Adrenaline is one of three travel teams within PCG. Thank you to all who came out and purchased ice cream – despite the frigid weather!

Did you know that Power Cheer Gym is the first gym in London, Ontario to offer a Special Abilities cheerleading team?

Now in its 8th season, the team currently has 22 athletes. As the biggest and most diverse team, which is constantly growing, we could always use more volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering with the Special Abilities team, please contact us by phone or email (listed below)!

A notice to athletes: It’s never too late to join! We have teams ranging in age from 5 to 17+ and various levels and abilities.

We will find the team best suited for you (or for someone you know). If you are interested in joining or have any questions about Power Cheer Gym, contact us by phone at 519-667-0565 or by email

New to Power Cheer Gym is AcroYoga, which is a combination of acrobatics, yoga, and thai massage. The gym is thrilled to offer introductory classes and open gym times for the new (and fun) discipline!

at pcg@powercheergym.com. Or visit us online at www.powercheergym.com.

New at Power Cheer Gym What’s new at Power Cheer Gym? AcroYoga! It’s an intriguing combination of Acrobatics, Yoga, and Thai Massage, and it’s taking the world by storm! We are pleased to have Kate join Power Cheer Gym to offer Introductory Acro Classes and Open Gym times for AcroYogis to practice this Fall! AcroYoga provides a safe way for adults to connect and play like kids, just goofing around. Prices and details can be found at www.PowerCheerGym. com.

www.powercheergym.com pcgvipers

@PCGVipers

The Viper Junior Attack, Youth Amped and Tiny Choas teams were all in for ‘Pink Practice Week' in support of Breast Cancer Awareness in October.

Junior 3 Adrenaline athletes took part in a fundraiser at Marble Slab (Masonville location) to help raise money for the team’s costs this season

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The UWO Cheerleading Alumni and team were out in full force at this year’s chilly and damp Homecoming game.

Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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It’s all about the moments…

Submitted by CheerStrike The 2019 competition season is in full swing. At CheerStrike our philosophy – when it comes to competing – is to focus on more than just the results.

Of course, there is the moment when winning teams are announced and trophies are handed out, but there are so many more moments that take precedence for us. For instance, there’s the moment you arrive, all dressed in your team’s uniform, ready to share your anxiety and anticipation with each other.

There’s the moment your coach gives you a pep talk before taking the floor, giving you the confidence to do your best. And there’s the moment you feel the adrenaline rush through you as you take the floor to perform.

Maybe there’s a mistake made while competing, and the moment arises that you need to overcome that disappointment and keep going for your team.

There’s the moment you spot your smil-

ing family’s faces, beaming with pride.

There’s the team hug at the end of a successful run of a routine that you’ve been working on for months to perfect.

Can you control how the judges score your routine? No. Can you control how the other teams do? No. At CheerStrike, we encourage every athlete to be proud of themselves regardless of the results.

This guarantees a positive competition

experience, controlling what you can and accepting what you cannot. The feelings that each athlete leaves with from a competition are more important than whatever trophy an athlete takes home.

We can’t wait to see all our Royal teams take the floor in 2019! If you are interested in the programs that we offer, please visit our website.

www.cheerstrikeroyals.com

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Performance Group filled with passion

By Richelle Hirlehey Dance Extreme hosts more than just Andrea says, she will be “choreographing charity or fundraising events or initiative. dance training classes. In addition to dances to songs that are empowering To learn more about this exciting proour Competitive Dance Troupe, Dance and resonate with inclusion.” Her goal, gram at Dance Extreme, please visit our Extreme is also host to Dance Extreme’s she says, is to “make sure that [these] website.

Performance Group. Now in its second young performers can really connect to www.danceextreme.com year of existence, this group of eager their audience” and, in turn, offer them a youths meet once a week to rehearse and place to share their passion for dance. learn choreography provided to them by Dance Extreme’s Performance Group their Director. is always looking for various events to The Performance Group is made up perform at and welcomes invitations to of young dancers between the ages of perform at your next gala or other local seven and 13 who not only love to dance but who are looking for additional performing opportunities. This group of dancers, both male and female, includes children who love to dance but are not involved in a competitive dance program. They work with a choreographer to learn pieces that allow them to share their love of the art of dance around their community.

Under the direction of Andrea Gittens, the team is dedicated to bringing dance alive throughout London and the surDance Extreme’s Performance Group, which features both male and female dancers aged 7 to 13, is dedicated to bringing dance alive throughout London and rounding area. As Miss the surrounding area

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Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

SUPPORTING LOCAL FOOTBALL

Photo taken by Megan Dahlberg. Catholic Central London High School 2018 Junior Crusader Varsity Football Team: Josh Dahlberg, Keesean Campbell, Carson Lewis, Liam McDonaugh, Brody Hughes, Ryan Luksys, Manuel Prado, Brendan Mahood, Coson Skellet, Hussam Hussien, Brandon Tam, Jacob Austin, Christiano Delima, James Ocampos, Ethan Contois, Chris Demarco, Matteo Polvere, Desire Omafoma, Noah Bolger, Ben Slemin, Jaheem Brown, Marcus Drankowsky, Garret Beukaboom, Anthony Baratta, Christian Thomson, Zach Dahlberg, Sam Mooder, Lukas Van Oirschot, Jackson Teixeira, Damian Chmielinski, Jared Blazs, Jake Vanderweyst, Jeff Studnicka, Matt McMillan, Callum Smith, Kevin Ricard, Xavier Corneil, Gavin Clarke, Joseph Zangari, Gavin Vandenberg, Keegan Rondinelli, Liam Hanna and Marc Carranza. Managers: Georden McAuley, Jersey McAuley and Hannah Rogers.

Catholic Central London High School 2018 Senior Crusader Varsity Football Team: Eric Basler, Ethan Chambers, Raeshawn Blake, Juan Gonzalez, Sam Csinos, Luke Kelly-Smith, Osei Antwi, Bryce, Twohey, Kaden McAuley, Sal McLawrence, Quinn Brown, Bennett Moore, Noah Trojcak, Devonte Ballantyne, Mark Beukeboon, Jamison McGann, Tyson Vidinha, Cam Guest, Luke Ciapka, Keegan Vanek, Themi Papanastassiou, Julian Sanchez, Quinten Isaac, Ben Buechler, Jordan Daabous, Raul Espinosa, Graeme Crittenden, Robert Morgan, Amoui Derder, Ali Shirzad, Luke Stiles, Nicholas Stranges, Brendan Andrews, Dennis Larocque, Austin Bettencourt, Wuinten Clewlow, Deon-dre Doiron, Austin Foltz, Nick Youkhanna, Michael Adams, Matthew Vanderploeg, Lucas Hessel, Alexander Pedda, Lukas Cho and Jameson Eaves.

A new pigskin partnership Submitted by London Minor Football Association The London Minor Football Association (LMFA) is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, and the organization is happy to welcome a new sponsor – Kal Tire – for the Atom age division (ages 10 and 11)!

Kal Tire is the title sponsor for the entire atom division this year, which includes sponsoring eight teams (with over 200 players) across the London and St. Thomas area. Many young players are able to join our organization because of the generosity of sponsors like Kal

Detroit Lions

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Road Trips vs.

Nov 18

Nov 22

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Rams eyeing gridiron glory

Proudly Sponsored by

Contributions by Mike Shewan The regular season couldn’t have gone any better for the St. Joseph’s Catholic High School Rams junior football team, who went a perfect 5-0 while outscoring their opponents by a whopping 160-23 margin along the way. That set the Rams up for a semi-final matchup against Catholic Central High School (CCH).

At the time of this writing, that game had yet to be played. But the Rams had their hopes set high, looking to advance to the finals (which they did two seasons ago) and then earn a spot in the WOSSAA championship game. They closed out their regular season with a 14-3 win over CCH to finish 5-0 in league play.

That game easily marked the closest

contest the Rams played all season, as they cruised to victories in their other four games, including the following wins: 35-0 over Holy Cross; 34-6 over Regina Mundi; 42-7 over Mother Teresa; and 35-7 over St. Thomas Aquinas. And the Rams were strong in all facets of the game.

“We have a talented defence, led by Luke Verdel, Wyatt Sloetjes and Hunter Gilchrist, and a strong offensive line led

by Carter Walt, Owen Ainsworth, Perry Murray and Brady Shantz,” said Mike Shewan, the junior team’s head coach (since 2005). “We also have an excellent running game, led by grade 9 running back Ethan Dolby, and a very good passing game, led by quarterback Rayden

Aphayvong.”

All were on display throughout the regular season for the Rams, who play in the London District Athletics Division of the Thames Valley Regional Athletic Association (TVRAA). But, of course, it’s not only about the results on the field, Shewan says.

“As a coaching staff, we try to instill good work habits, team unity, and being accountable and responsible to yourself, your teammates and your school,” the coach said.

The St. Joseph’s Catholic High School Rams Junior Football Team

Tire. No player is turned away from the LMFA for financial reasons.

LMFA is a house league that welcomes all boys and girls across the London and St. Thomas area, from ages 7 to 13. We accept all players, regardless of experience or ability, and we offer the chance

for kids to join a team, make friends, stay active, and learn about teamwork and sportsmanship.

Every Sunday in the fall, the 24 LMFA teams compete on the fields at Citywide Park, which leads up to LMFA Championship Day on November 4. In the

winter, our popular indoor skills camps get underway at Centrefield Sports.

For more information on all things LMFA, please visit www.lmfafootball.ca or call 519-852-4465.

www.lmfafootball.ca

The London Minor Football Association, currently in its 60th year of operation, is thrilled to welcome Kal Tire as a sponsor this year for the Atom age division

Dec 23

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LEGALLY SPEAKING - FEATURING PHILLIP MILLAR

Concussions and the law Millars Law has had many wins suing sports leagues for coaches failing to protect their players from head injuries. As former athletes, we are passionate about players’ rights and about protecting our youth. In recent years, the Canadian government has updated the laws surrounding youth sports to protect athletes against concussions.

Rowan’s Law is one example where the government has responded to the rise of head injuries in youth sports. Rowan’s law was created in response to an accident that could have been avoided to 17-year-old Rowan Stringer.

Stringer died after she had sustained a second fatal concussion during a rugby game in Ottawa. Rowan had endured her first concussion within the seven days prior to the fatal hit. The coroner’s inquest determined that Rowan passed away from second impact syndrome.

Sustaining a second concussion while the brain is recovering from the first impact can result in a decrease of blood flow and depletion of energy levels.

This causes the brain to swell, which can result in death. Death can occur in any situation where a person sustains two impacts to the head within a short

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period of time (the amount of time varies based on the size, age, and weight of the person).

This law is ultimately designed to keep children safe.

Rowan’s Law was passed unanimously on June 7, 2016 by the Ontario legislature, and it continues to govern all youth concussions in sports. The case resulted in 49 recommendations for youth sports and that youth sports require appropriate management of suspected concussions.

Some of the 49 recommendations within the law included: • Trainers and coaches have the proper tools to identify a concussion • Trainers and coaches have the proper contacts to get their player diagnosed • Have an increased awareness of educational opportunities • Have proper concussion policies in order for all sports organizations and school boards in Ontario If your child is hit in the head

and is sent back out onto the field or ice after showing signs of a concussion and gets hurt, they are liable. Head Injuries are a real danger. It is important to know the laws surrounding youth sports in Canada so that we can protect our children from deathly or serious injuries.

Contact us today for your FREE consultation: 519-657-1LAW or info@millarslaw.com

www.millarslaw.com

Phillip Millar

Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

Proudly sponsored by

A community team Contributions by Jonathan Brimmell and photo by Picture Day Photography They’re not only playing well together as a team on the ice this season, but the London Junior Mustangs Minor Bantam Purple team has also come together and showcased their teamwork skills away from the rink as well – including participating as volunteers in this past fall’s CIBC Run for the Cure event.

It’s been a nice balance for the Minor Bantams this year, who have been improving their hockey skills on the ice and making a difference off it, in the London community.

The boys got off to a quick start on the ice this year, reaching the final in their first tournament together (they lost a tight

game against the Halton Hills Thunder and came away with a silver medal). And they’ve been improving their skills ever since, against tough competition in the Alliance Hockey League (A/AA).

“We’re really working on developing our kids into hockey players who can understand the game at a high level, and can play as a 5-person unit in all three zones of the ice,” says Jonathan Brimmell, the team’s head coach. “We’re a very fast and skilled team that also likes to play physical.”

The Minor Bantam Purple team plays against teams from Sarnia to Burlington during the Alliance regular season, as well

as against the other London teams in the league from the Mustangs program and the London Jr. Knights organization. And they compete in tournaments as well, giving them further opportunities to improve as a team and develop friendships – both on and off the ice.

And they’ve been busy away from the rink, too, participating in a number of community events and causes. They were involved in the London Food Bank food drive, collecting donations at grocery stores across the city, and they’ll be active in Toys for Tots, which collects, sorts, and delivers Christmas toys for children who may otherwise go without.

“We really have a great group of kids,” says Brimmell, who has been coaching hockey, at various levels, since 2009. “They’re hard-working, both on and off the ice, and our coaching staff is focused on helping them development to become great players and great people.”

London Junior Mustangs Minor Bantam Purple team

Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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Featured Sylvan All-Star: Daniel Lansard James

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Teamwork breeds success for Hawks Contributions by Mike Berdan

The Minor Peewee West London Hawks area. The age group is players born in have learned more than a thing or two 2007 (11 years old). over the years in which the core group of “Because we are a younger team, one players have been competing together. of the things we obviously try to get But perhaps no more important lesson through to the kids is that the first priorhas been that teamwork not only creates ity should be fun,” says Berdan, who is a better environment for the players, but in his ninth year as a minor hockey coach it also contributes to winning more often. and has surrounded himself in the game “We’ve made sure that our players for over 40 years. “The game of hockey is work as a team and made puck moveabout having fun. And at the same time, ment a priority,” says coach Mike Berdan. if you don't have fun you’re unlikely to “And the kids have embraced this. Over have success.” the past few years, they've learned this The Minor Peewee Hawks are a closehas been a major factor in our success. Every player brings something to the table. And when the game is played as a team, it’s often much easier to win.”

The Minor Peewees (team 35) compete in the Greater London Hockey Association (CHL division), and they play their home games at the new Bostwick Community Centre. Throughout the season, the Hawks play Minor Peewee West London Hawks team: Goalie-Preston “Presto” Carter. Row 1 left to right: #12 Nolen against several teams “Gunner” Pancino, #3 Edward “Snipes” Jin, #6 Benjamin “Dangles” Vallieres, #9 Reagan “Zoom Zoom” from other hockey asBerdan, #4 Dylan “Wheels” Wade, #13 Chase “Knuckles” Kristensen, #7 Malic “Money” Atieh. Row 2 left to right: #14 Andrew “Rocket” Calhoun, #17 Lucas “Special Delivery” Mailer, #15 Ryan “The Total Package” sociations in London and Szczepanik, #5 Nathan “Curly” Malone, #16 Blake Kristensen, #11 Simon “Boom Boom” Davidson, #10 Daniel “Slick” Lansard James. Coaches left to right: Mike Berdan, Sean Berdan, Jeff Malone, (missing Chris James)

knit group of kids, Berdan says, and they have each other’s back at every turn.

The players are inclusive with all team members, regardless of talent level. And they’ve enjoyed a good deal of success over the years as a group, reaching the finals in four straight seasons while winning a couple of tournaments along the way.

“They’ve worked hard and used what we’ve taught them to enjoy a lot of success,” Berdan says.

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Road Trips vs. Toronto Maple Leafs

Feb 1

An eye on instruction Contributions by Cassidy Martin and Kalley Armstrong for Snipe Academy Snipe Academy is having a big impact within the London hockey community, as numerous athletes are training at the top-notch facility. A big part of Snipe’s success is due to its collection of high-quality coaches. Here’s a glimpse at just two of those instructors…

Cassidy Martin Growing up in a small rural town in Alberta, Cassidy Martin started her hockey career at age 11. After just two years of hockey experience, she made her town’s Peewee boys competitive team. After her family moved to Calgary, Martin captained her Midget AAA team. She was offered an academic scholarship to St. Thomas University, and she competed in the CIS for four years, serving as an assistant captain beginning in her second season.

Following university, where she completed a degree in Psychology and Sociology, she returned home to Alberta and coached with the Minor Midget AAA boys program for the Southside Athletic club in Edmonton. And she focused on earning coaching certificates.

“I still have a love for the game,” Martin says, “and I want to be a mentor for London’s hockey community.”

She’s getting that opportunity at Snipe Academy, which she describes as a community.

“We’re so fortunate and lucky to coach the best minor hockey kids in London and surrounding areas,” says Martin, adding that she enjoys meeting hockey families.

“Our coaches all genuinely care about each player that comes through our doors. And I pride myself on teaching good habits and developing hockey players.”

Martin says she believes that Snipe offers training at the highest level, and she would have loved to have had the opportunity to train at the facility when she was growing up.

“I don’t think I would have left,” Martin says. “Snipe also brings a sense of fun and playfulness to hockey. I’m definitely proud to say that I’m a coach at the Academy.”

four years at Harvard University, serving as captain in her senior season – when the team advanced to the NCAA National Championship finals.

Returning to Ontario, Armstrong served as an assistant coach for Western University’s women’s hockey team during the 2016-17 season, helping lead the Mustangs to a strong year on the ice. In 2018, she coached Team Ontario at the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships.

Now, besides serving as an instructor at Snipe Academy, she coaches – alongside Cassidy Martin – the Novice Devilettes girls hockey team. At Snipe, Armstrong says she has enjoyed meeting so many great players and parents.

“It has helped make London feel more like home,” says Armstrong, who is still fairly new to the city. “Snipe really is a community, and it’s one that I’m lucky to be part of.”

Two talented coaches at Snipe Academy include Cassidy Martin and Kalley Armstrong

Armstrong says her passion is developing young female hockey players and helping them achieve their goals. Seeing their progress is a fun experience for the coach, as is witnessing their confidence grow.

“I always remember the coaches that had a huge influence on me, so it’s great to have the chance to give back to the game and try to positively impact young players,” Armstrong says.

And how would Snipe have changed her life had she had access to the Academy as a youngster?

“I would have been there every chance I could, to practice my shot, or work on the little things you don’t always have time for at practice. I know it would have built my confidence on the ice, without a doubt.”

www.snipeacademy.com

Kalley Armstrong Kalley Armstrong enjoyed a very successful U.S. collegiate hockey career, playing

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Focus: Fun and the future Contributions by Al Gratton and photo by Camera Canada The London Junior Knights Major Midget AAA team is unique: They’re the oldest group in the Jr. Knights’ program, and it shows in the way they carry themselves. They’re mature, and they lead by example, showing younger players what a strong work ethic, unselfish play and ‘coachability’ looks like.

“They’re avid students of the game,” says Al Gratton, the team’s manager.

“They’re extremely dedicated and respectful, and they play well together as a team. And, as much as [the Alliance] is a highly-competitive league, the coaching staff always puts an emphasis on fun and instills a love for the game with the players.”

The players on the U18 team, which plays its home games on Sunday evenings at the Western Fair arena, are always working on improving their skills.

Seven players are affiliated with local Junior B teams, and all team members are focused on their own roles and strengths to help the Knights be more successful on the ice.

One definite advantage the team has is a large coaching and support staff.

Besides Gratton, the staff includes: Mike Juszczynski (Assistant Coach, Forwards); Jason Ross (Assistant Coach, Defencemen); John Pearce (Goalie Coach); Rob Van Eslander and Dave Moore (Trainers); Wendy Glover

London Jr. Knights Midget AAA team: Front row (left to right): Jimmy Sullivan (Equipment Manager), Gordie O'Dwyer, Robert White, Jake Marche, Johnny Fitzgerald, Spencer Mace. Middle row: John Pearce (Goalie Coach), Matson Micallef, Matthew Gough, Joey Stimac, Tyler Alexander, Michael Elliston, Nash Glover, Matthieu Gaudrault, Alex Bikos, Mike Juszczynski (Asst. Coach). Back row: Al Gratton (General Manager), Quinn Wenger, Jordan Daer, Josh Tidgwell, Liam Hoskins, Tristan Wilcox, Alex MacLeod, Jason Ross (Asst. Coach), Jason Glover (Head Coach). Missing from picture: Joey Studnicka and Trainers Dave Moore and Rob VanElslander

(Academic Pathway Planning); Brynn Gratton (Social Media); Jimmy Sullivan (Team Volunteer for 25 years!); and, of course, Head Coach Jason Glover.

Besides leading the team’s on-ice efforts, Glover is invested in helping players choose paths after their Jr. Knights careers.

“More recently, [Jason] has also been serving to mentor former players after their hockey careers as they pursue coaching,” says Gratton of Glover, who has coached the game for 15 years and played professionally for a decade. “It’s important to Jason that coaches are mentored on player development best practices, following Hockey Canada’s Player Development Model.”

Current Jr. Knights players are even getting involved in coaching training (the Major Midget AAA team already has three fully-certified coaches!). Meanwhile, the program has also introduced concurrent hockey/academic pathway planning.

“It’s unique to the U18 team,” says Gratton, “since they are nearing the end of high school and many players are trying to balance making decisions in both areas.”

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50 years of inclusive hockey!

Submitted by George Bray Sports Association What an exciting start we had to our 50th season! Over the summer, the folks on the board at the George Bray Sports Association (GBSA) prepared for our move from the older Glen Cairn arena to the recently renovated Kinsmen Sports complex. The new facility has come with so many great advantages – the biggest being that all our games can be played on a single day on Saturdays.

The Kinsmen arena has two great pads, spacious change rooms, and even a concession stand to grab a hot coffee or some popcorn. With the two pads, we can run our entire program on a Saturday starting at 8:00 a.m. and finishing up by 1:30 p.m.!

The first few weeks were so much fun – a bit chaotic, for sure, but a lot of fun too! Seeing our Junior players watching the Intermediate and Seniors play, knowing that one day, that will be them. And seeing our Intermediate and Senior players watching the Juniors and recognizing just how far they have come as hockey players. The energy in the arena is truly electric.

This year’s registration took place starting in September, and we are happy

to report that we welcomed over 40 new players to the league. Imagine, 40 new kids playing Canada’s great game!

For those who don’t know about us … back in 1968, George Bray was coaching hockey and he recognized a need for a place where kids with intellectual disabilities could play hockey and be part of a team. From there, the George Bray Sports Association was born! Who would ever have thought that 50 years later we would be going strong – and growing!

We currently have more than 200 players registered in the league, spread over four divisions.

Our Fundamentals division consists of two teams, with all players being new to hockey and skating. We have a dedicated group of volunteers that work with these players to help increase their confidence on skates and get them to a point where they are able to stand and maybe even skate a bit independently.

By January, the hope is that these players will be able to merge into the Junior division.

Our Junior division consists of four teams, with most players being in the age range of 7 to 12. These players are

learning the basics of hockey – and having a ton of fun along the way! The Juniors have on-ice coaching during their games to help them better understand the game and keep them in the play.

In the Intermediate division, we have six teams – with most players ranging in age from 12 to 17 (although some players are older). These players take what they have learned so far and apply it to the game. We follow the rules of hockey – icing, offsides, etc. – but our focus is on teamwork.

Our Senior division is also made up of six teams with an age range of 17 to… whatever age. We have players in the Senior division who are in the 40+ age range. In fact, the majority of the players in Senior have been with the league for many years. Why do they keep coming back? Because it’s fun, it’s where they are accepted, and it’s where they want to be!

At GBSA, you have to be here, to see it, to believe it!

Visit our website at www.georgebraysports.ca and ‘Like’ us on Facebook!

www.georgebraysports.ca

The George Bray Sports Association, an organization devoted to providing hockey playing opportunities (and fun!) to children and adults with intellectual disabilities, is celebrating its 50th season in 2018-2019!

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Juniors prepped for promising year Submitted by Komoka Kings Hockey Club The 2018-2019 season didn’t start off as planned for the Komoka Kings, but you need to start somewhere, and a great lesson was learned by all during a 7-2 loss to the Sarnia Legionnaires.

The Home Opener on Friday, September 14, however, was a tremendous success. Sponsored by Mt. Brydges Ford and King of the Pigs, the festivities included pork on a bun served from 5-7pm to fill the bellies of the more than 250 fans who came out to watch Komoka hit the ice against the Strathroy Rockets.

And in that game, netminder Owen Say received his first shutout and player of the game honours after the Kings

deflated the Rockets with a 4-0 win.

One of the Kings’ goals this season is to grow the fanbase to be in the 600 range. And why not? Where else can you see Jr. A draft picks, great Jr. B players, and up-and-coming hockey stars all in one place? It’s a short and easy drive to Komoka, where parking is free and the hockey is terrific.

The Kings have a number of rookies on the roster as well as returning players which have bolstered the ranks and strengthened the team – which will definitely be a force to be reckoned with this season.

On Saturday, September 30, Assistant

Assistant Captain Alex Cunningham is congratulated for reaching a milestone – playing his 100th game for the Komoka Kings (formerly the Predators) – by Roop Chanderdat, the owner, president and GM of the team

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Captain Alex Cunningham celebrated his 100th game played with the Kings (formerly the Predators), and he bulged the twine twice that evening against the St. Marys Lincolns in a 7-2 win.

This year, the Komoka Kings Hockey Club is devoting the entire season in honour and remembrance of the 16 players and staff of the Humboldt Broncos who lost their lives last season and to their respective families – as well as to the 13 survivors – by proudly wearing the Humboldt Broncos logo on their helmets.

www.komokakings.com

The official puck drop for the Komoka Kings’ 2018-19 season: Back (left to right): Matt Kok (Mt. Brydges Ford), Ruis Vierra (Kings of the Pigs) and Mayor Al Edmondson (Middlesex Centre).

Front (left to right): Captain Joel Mazillia (Komoka Kings) and Captain Max Ewert (Strathroy Rockets)

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Road Trips vs. Toronto Maple Leafs

Feb 1

A green and gold homecoming

By Fraser Weir for London Knights It’s not every day that you can fulfill a childhood dream.

For many athletes, the childhood dream is playing for the team that first fostered your love for the game, to wear the same jersey that your heroes wore game in and game out, to skate on the same ice that they did, or to train within the same hallowed walls.

But for most athletes, no matter how talented, it rarely works out that they’re able to fulfill that dream.

In the hockey world in 2018, however, it has become a trend. It all started on July 1 when former London Knight John Tavares decided that he would sign with his childhood team, the Toronto Maple Leafs.

On October 2, another player had the opportunity to return home and play for his childhood team – 20-year-old defenceman William Lochead. He attended games as a kid at Budweiser Gardens, and he was given tours of the locker room that he remembers to this day.

“I really only wanted to play here,” Lochead told Ryan Pyette of the London Free Press. “I grew up watching them and knew it was such a good organization.

That was the only option. I enjoyed my three years with Niagara, but I’m really close to my parents and it’s nice being back home living with them.”

Now he will be a leader in that locker room. The 20-year-old over-ager, with three years and 156 games of Ontario

Hockey League experience, prides himself on being the hardest working and toughest player on his team. Lochead will look to lead by example this season as he comes in as a veteran presence on an extremely talented, albeit young London Knights team.

Lochead joins one of the youngest Knights teams in recent memory, but that doesn’t mean the expectations aren’t as high as ever. The Knights entered the season ranked 2nd in the Canadian Hockey League pre-season rankings.

With a relative down year last year, the Knights are back and loaded with NHL talent, including the likes of Adam Boqvist (8th overall in the 2018 NHL Draft), Liam Foudy (18th overall in the 2018 NHL draft), and Matvey Guskov (projected first round pick in the upcoming NHL draft). And there has been an influx of exciting new talent from the midget draft this year, including Luke Evangelista, Antonio Stranges, Sahil Panwar and Gerard Keane.

In other words, the Knights appear poised to be contenders for a trip to Halifax for the Memorial Cup this year.

They’re young, but they’re here to win now – and for awhile.

www.londonknights.com

William Lochead, a 20-year-old London native and defenceman in the OHL, has the opportunity this season to fulfil his childhood dream of playing for his hometown London Knights.

Details at BigGameRoadTrips.ca or see page 43

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Proud sponsor of local hockey

Ryan Brown and his London KIA have become big supporters of West London Minor Hockey the new Bostwick arena. It is a great facility for hockey and London KIA stepped up and purchased half ice boards which will be used for Tyke and Novice hockey half ice games.

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Future West London Hawk Mason Tweedie

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