SportsXpress London Jan/Feb 2017

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Bentley Hearing recognizes Sporting Seniors Featured Organization: London Crokinole Club

It’s flicking fun!

By SportsXpress Team and photo courtesy of Ron Reesor There’s a lot of flicking going on indoors at the Fairmont Lawn Bowling Club (1414 Dundas St. at Hale), and it’s all in the name of the London Crokinole Club, which meets the second Thursday each month from September to May. It’s only fitting for London to have a crokinole club, as the game dates back to the late 19th century in Southwestern Ontario (specifically, Tavistock is the birthplace of Eckhardt Wettlaufer, who made the earliest known crokinole board around 1870 – according to worldcrokinole.com).

Last summer, in fact, members of the London Crokinole Club were in Tavistock competing at the 18th annual World Crokinole Championships in June. London member

Ray Beierling has won the event in the past. He placed well again in the most recent World Championship, as did Gus and Mary Hohman and Dwayne and Christina Campbell.

New members are always welcome at the London Crokinole Club, and everyone’s initial night is free. After that it’s just $5 per night. Action starts at 7pm, and the first date for 2017 is Thursday,

Jan. 12.

The club also hosts its own tournament each spring. Like regular club play, both recreational and competitive players are welcome, and there are divisions and prizes for all skill levels.

Interested in playing the game? Check out the London Crokinole Club!

www.londoncrokinoleclub.com

The London Crokinole Club, housed at the Fairmont Lawn Bowling Club, meets the second Thursday of each month for plenty of flicking fun.

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Thank you, London!

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

By Richelle Hirlehey for Dance Extreme Dance Extreme would like to thank the London community for voting us TopRanked Service Provider in the category of Best Dance Studio by the Consumer Choice Awards for the fifth year in a row! Since 2013, we have received this prestigious award that is chosen based on market research and chosen by YOU … the consumer.

“Consumer Choice Award was established in 1987 with the sole purpose of recognizing business excellence in small and medium-sized businesses,” reads a statement on the Consumers Choice Awards website (www.ccaward.com).

Today, [they] are the only organization in Canada to conduct statistically accurate independent market research surveys to determine brand reputation, customer satisfaction and business excellence.”

Consumer Choice Awards uses a fourstep process to determine applicants worthy of the Local London community business honours. Most importantly, the votes come from confidential surveys: SSI New Market Research Survey and Consumer Choice

London & Area Edition

thelineup

Award Market Pulse Surveys, which then allow CCA to “confidently finalize the ranking of the nominated businesses and conclude the winner of each category and all markets.”

Dance Extreme has been offering highquality dance instruction to children ages 2.5 years to adult for the past 19 years.

We value our customers and dancers, and we truly believe we are a family!

We welcome you to try us out if you are looking for a great way to get moving, or if you have a youngster that is interested in trying dance. Thank you once again for making us #1 in 2017! We hope you will join the Dance Extreme family.

To check out further recipients of the Consumer Choice Awards in London and Greater Area, please visit www.ccaward.com.

Dance...................................................... pg 3 Boler Mountain....................................... pg 5 Fitness............................................... pgs 6-7 Bowling................................................... pg 8 Baseball...........................................pgs 10-11 Climbing................................................pg 12 Soccer............................................. pgs 14-19 Football.......................................... pgs 22-23 Karate................................................... pg 24 Volleyball....................................... pgs 26-27 Lacrosse................................................ pg 29 Basketball.......................................pgs 30-31 Golf................................................ pgs 32-34 Cheerleading................................. pgs 35-37 Gymnastics.................................... pgs 37-38 Contests................................................ pg 39 Aquatics..........................................pgs 39-41 Hockey........................................... pgs 42-53 Accessible Sports................................. pg 43 Scholarship........................................... pg 45 FAN PASS.............................................. pg 50 Events................................................... pg 54

www.danceextreme.com

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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 10 or at For the fifth year in a row, Dance Extreme was voted Best Dance Studio (Top-Ranked Service Provider in the category) by the Consumer Choice Awards.

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2017 Winter Season ahead!

Your Community

Submitted by Connect Sports London

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

2017 Winter Co-ed Adult Sports Registration

Sports Connection

London and Area

Check out our website at LondonSportsXpress.ca PUBLISHER: Greg Matthison, GregM@SportsXpress.ca, 519 619 6029

Registration Deadline: Friday, January 13.

Sign up solo, with friends or submit a full team today!

Sports include: Dodgeball, Basketball, Volleyball, Floor Hockey, Flex League and Many More!

Enjoy a fun, weekly recreational sporting event with friends this winter!

Register online at www.connectsportslondon.com

www.connectsportslondon.com

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

Todd Devlin Alyssa MacLeod Britt Cobean

CONTRIBUTORS

Richelle Hirlehey, Pam Bialik, Russ Coomber, Brandon Piper, Kim Benke, The Little Gym of London, London Lightning, EBBA, Bowlerama, BodyWorx, Connect Sports London, Boler Mountain, Junction Climbing Centre, , London Youth Whitecaps, London Blizzard Sledge Hockey Club, Forest City Diving Club, REV3K, London Nationals, LDBA Baseball, Progressive Hockey Development, London Gymnastics Academy, Woodstock Oxford Minor Basketball Association, Extreme Indoor Golf, London Devilettes Hockey, George Bray Sports Association, Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs, London Volleyball Club, London Junior Mustangs, London Minor Football Association, London Sharks Volleyball, Little Kickers London, FC LONDON, Puckstoppers, London Junior Golf Development Centre, Power Cheer Gym, Middlesex Swimming, CheerStrike, Olympic Karate, London Aquatic Club, the SportsXpress Team and local sports enthusiasts.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ron Reesor, Norm Allison, Martin Bazyl, Ellerby Photography, Boler Mountain, Connect Sports London, BodyWorx, London Senior Games, London Blizzard Sledge Hockey Club, Dance Extreme, London Youth Whitecaps, Forest City Diving Club, London Nationals, George Bray Sports Association, London Gymnastics Academy, Extreme Indoor Golf, Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs, Catholic Teachers Athletic Association, London Knights, London Junior Golf Development Centre, London Sharks Volleyball, Progressive Hockey Development, NorWest Soccer, Bowlerama, Woodstock Oxford Minor Basketball Association, REV3K, London Volleyball Club, Little Kickers London, FC LONDON, London Devilettes Hockey, London Junior Mustangs, London Lightning, Puckstoppers, Western Mustangs, London Minor Lacrosse Association, LDBA Baseball, London Minor Football Association, Middlesex Swimming, The Little Gym of London, Junction Climbing Centre, CheerStrike, Olympic Karate, Power Cheer Gym, London Aquatic Club, the SportsXpress Team, various sports group photographers and community sports fans.

PARTNERSHIP EDITIONS

Chatham London Niagara Falls Peterborough Waterloo Windsor Plus recent parners in the United States

PARTNERSHIP INQUIRY

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

NATIONAL & REGIONAL SALES

Greg Matthison GregM@SportsXpress.ca

PRESIDENT/CEO

Walter Browning walter@sportsxpress.ca

VP OPERATIONS

Clint Szakacs clint@sportsxpress.ca

Mailing Address 50 Ottawa St. South, Unit 110, Kitchener, On, N2G 3S7 519–208–9302 or 1-877-588-8856

Connect Sports London provides adult Londoners the opportunity to participate in a wide range of (affordable!) sport and social leagues, both for the casual and the more competitive player.

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

FAN DEALS

(see page 50)

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New chalet on the horizon Submitted by Boler Mountain Boler Mountain, Southwestern Ontario’s most dynamic destination for outdoor adventure, is embarking on an exciting new phase of development. After 15 years of improving the on-hill experience, Boler Mountain is now turning its attention to the guest experience off-hill, with a new $6.1-million chalet that will be built at the base of Boler over the coming year.

The 16,000 square-foot, three-level facility will bring a new level of guest services for enthusiasts of outdoor activi-

ties. It will be a community-use facility, perfect for private and corporate events, year-round.

Boler Mountain has truly grown into a year-round recreational facility, and with that growth has come an increasing demand from the community for a better chalet facility. The new chalet will allow Boler Mountain to provide guests with a spectacular view of the ski hill from a comfortable and accessible facility. The addition of state-of-the-art kitchen and dining facilities will enable Boler to host

weddings and corporate events while still operating outdoor adventure activities.

The current chalet will remain and be renovated into the equipment rental shop. The new facility is scheduled to be completed by October 2017. Follow #bolerbuilds on social media for updated info on the development and exciting new chalet building!

www.bolermountain.com

The new 16,000 square-foot, three-level chalet, budgeted at $6.1 million, will provide guests at Boler Mountain with a state-of-the-art community-use facility that will be perfect for private and corporate events as well. Year-round! Expected completion date is October 2017. #bolerbuilds

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Make a Habit…not a Resolution Submitted by BodyWorx A habit is a settled or regular tendency or practice, one that is hard to give up. A resolution, by contrast, is only a decision to do, or not to do, something. There is no practical planning in a resolution.

BodyWorx trainer/owner Tania Admans focuses on creating lifelong healthy habits. Habits that are simple to create and keep.

“Fitness habits aren’t always easy.

Discovering the activity that makes you happy and feel good and that you will do with purpose and focus is really important,” says Tania. “The first questions I ask when meeting a new client is what they like and dislike in the gym and what has worked or not worked for them in the past.”

It’s important to ask yourself: do you like free weights, machines, cardio, individual training or group fitness classes?

And then determine a short-term goal, something that is attainable within 1 to 3 months.

Be honest with what you are willing and able to do. Consider your lifestyle in regards to nutrition and demands on your time and energy. With these simple answers, a plan will start to take shape. Beware: choosing a goal that you’re not prepared to work

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towards will create failure.

Instead, start small, build confidence and be willing to adapt to whatever you choose. You will feel positive energy and motivation for the bigger goals.

If you need a helping hand, find a reputable trainer who has experience in what you want to accomplish and one you feel confident in. Good rapport and an enjoyable experience go a long way.

It takes 21 days to create a habit BodyWorx has a 21-day Transformation Program that includes fitness and nutritional components that we’ve designed to help build motivation and results.

We are so proud of Chantal’s Transformation. Her continued work ethic and healthy habits have produced significant results so far.

www.bodyworxtraining.com

Down: 51 lbs 9% body fat 25½ inches

LondonSportsXpress

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Ready for results at REV3K? Submitted by REV3K Many people feel intimated to join a gym – and for many different reasons.

Here are some of the questions people ask themselves before signing up to a gym: Will I get the results that I want? Will I like the environment I’ll be working out in? Will I be motivated to show up to the gym if I sign up?

With REV3K, Lieja Koeman has created an atmosphere where the community is both helpful and motivating. Classes are created as a circuit where all you have to do is show up to class in your gym

clothes, and you're ready to start the best 45 to 50-minute full body workout. At every class you have a trainer there to help modify/support/push you to work harder!

When you work out at REV3K consistently, you will see amazing results – and in no time! REV3K has two amazing programs: 13-week Biggest Loser (focused on weight loss), and 6-week Revolution (you pick your own goal to achieve in the 6-week timeframe). These programs happen three times throughout the year, and the results are incredible!

REV3K offers ONE WEEK FREE, if it's something you are interested in trying!

All you have to do is show up 15 minutes before a class, sign a waiver, and you are ready to go! Our schedule is online at www.rev3k.com. Come try us out to see if you want to join our REV3K community!

If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at 519-474-2871 or email us at info.rev3k@gmail.com.

www.rev3k.com

REV3K’s Season 18 Biggest Loser family, including the group’s amazing ambassador/coach Lieja Koeman. Congrats on your successful 13-week journey!

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

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Youth being served at Bowlerama Submitted by Bowlerama The lanes at Bowlerama Royale (2086 Dundas St.) are certainly busy on Saturday mornings, as 64 bowlers ranging in age from 4 to 21 (male and female) are currently playing in this year’s Youth League – and having a lot of fun doing it.

There are two bumper lanes, six teams of bowlers aged 6 to 11, and 11 teams of bowlers aged 12 to 21. It’s recreational bowling in the Bowlerama Royale Youth League, but there are competitive options, and the players do have the chance to represent southern Ontario at Nationals.

Rick Vaughan is in his first year as head coach of the league. But he’s been on the bowling scene long enough that he knew most of the older youth bowlers and their parents for many years prior to assuming head coaching responsibilities.

“I’m very honoured and proud to serve in this role,” said Vaughan, who has been

involved with bowling for 42 years, and has coached for more than 20. “I have some large shoes to fill. The biggest changes this year have been a whole new executive, and we have many new young children in the league. But it’s our goal to help everyone improve while developing social skills and having fun.”

Plenty of youngsters have beaten their personal best games this year, and many will be representing Bowlerama Royale at provincial-level tournaments this season.

Some may even wind up bowling for Team Southern Ontario at Nationals.

Bowlerama Royale is proud to award scholarships to deserving players throughout the year to help with their education in the future. In helping its own, the league and the organization truly has a family feel, says Vaughan, whose own sons have been bowling for the last 10 years, carrying on the fam-

Bowlerama Youth Bowling Club

10 locations to serve you in Southwestern Ontario

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ily legacy of bowling (Rick’s dad was a bowler as well).

“Over the years, I have met a lot of people that I respect and who have touched my life in a great way, and I'm wiser for it,” he said. “I really have to thank all the kids, parents, and other coaches, and Bowlerama Royale for giving so much to kids and their parents while providing a safe place to bowl.”

There is plenty of thanks to go around, Vaughan says. Including: Coaches Rick Fargnoli, Kyle Ballantine, Parry Davies, Tim Groves, Doug Sears, Steve Kenehan, among others; Executive members Deb Linington, Ken and Kristen Sitzes, Karen Labord, Trish Vaughan, and others; “And Mark and Brenda,” Vaughan says, “who have just wanted the best for all the kids.”

www.bowleramaroyale.com

sportsfiles

Spring Training has begun!

Submitted by EBBA and photos by Norm Allison A little cold and snow can't stop the Eager Beaver Baseball Association from warming up for the 2017 season, and a committed, volunteer board is busily preparing London's oldest youth sports league for its 63rd season of house league baseball for players aged 4 to 22.

Pre-season clinics have started for Rookie (b. 2008 & 2009) and Mosquito (b. 2006 & 2007) players. These 'spring' training sessions introduce basic baseball skills to players new to the game, and reinforce the skills of returning players. Players attending these clinics not only get a jumpstart on the season, but they also manage to have fun at the same time!

Plans are also underway for another great Little Slugger season. This 5-week program, held on Saturday mornings, introduces players born in 2012 & 2013 to the basic skills and mechanics of the game through practice stations and fun!

Volunteers are also working on Tball through to the Junior programs with an aim to have Rookie and Mosquito divisions play all their games at Mornington Park. The website has been updated, and an integrated player/team notification system through a smartphone app is now available.

In-person registration dates are January 28, February 25 and March 28. Online registration is also available. Team coaches and league volunteers are needed. For full information on all age divisions and registration information, please visit the league website at www.ebba.ca.

Pre-season clinics (‘spring’ training sessions) are in full swing for EBBA players in the Rookie and Mosquito divisions. Players focus on the fundamentals of the game while having a lot of fun!

www.ebba.ca

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

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

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LDBA to co-host 21U Nationals Submitted by LDBA Baseball The local baseball community has hit a home run in landing one of the most prestigious minor baseball tournaments in the country, as the Baseball Canada board of directors awarded the 2018 21U National Championship to St. Thomas.

The championship, which will be cohosted by St. Thomas Minor Baseball and the London & District Baseball Association (LDBA), will be held in August 2018 at Emslie Field and the brand new Cardinal Field (a $1.3-million facility with a full grass infield, lighting, concession/washroom building, and electronic scoreboard), which will open in 2017 in St. Thomas.

“It’s a very high calibre of baseball.” said Derek Brooks, tournament chair and President of the LDBA. “These are elite level baseball players, many playing at the college level in the U.S. or Canada.”

The area has not hosted a tournament at this particular level, although London has hosted several younger age-group national and provincial tournaments, including most recently the Baseball Canada DQ 13U National championship in 2016.

“It’s certainly a big deal for our local area,” said Brooks. “We have a new facility that will open, so we’re excited to showcase that. We have Emslie Field, which any local baseball person would know is very historic. So, in the St. Thomas area,

this tournament is very big. Then, to put London area on the national stage once again for a championship is obviously big for our community.”

The St. Thomas Tomcats are guaranteed a spot in the tournament as the local representative. The tournament field will consist of between eight and 12 teams from across the country.

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

17-20.

“The volunteers, facilities, sponsors, and organizing committee members are top notch, and Baseball Canada recognizes this,” said Brooks. “The committees for both events are hard at work planning more first-class events.”

The number of championships held in the London area was a factor in Baseball Canada’s decision to bring the tournament here.

“Clearly, London and St. Thomas have proven we have what it takes to put together outstanding baseball events.”

Badgers to host 18U Nationals in 2017

The London Badgers will once again host a National Championship in 2017, as the 18U National Championship will make a return to London in August. Games will be played at Labatt Park, Dan Pulham Memorial Field, and Aldridge Field.

The calibre of players will be top notch, with many getting ready to head off to post-secondary schools either in Canada www.ldbabaseball.ca or the U.S. The Badgers hosted this event previously in 2010 and are coming off a very successful 2016 13U National Event. The Badger team is LDBA's elite midget team, with some of the best 17 and 18-year-old local players. London will be one of 11 teams participating in the event, which LDBA and the St. Thomas Minor Baseball Association will host the 21U National Championships in 2018. will run from August

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Q&A with Ryan White Submitted by Junction Climbing Centre Q&A with Ryan White, Head Coach and Program Manager at the Junction Climbing Centre: Q: How did you discover rock climbing?

A: I was about 18 years old and a close friend took an outdoor leadership instructor course and was introduced to climbing there. When he returned home (London), he asked me if I’d be interested in trying climbing, as he needed a climbing partner. We went to East Park and I was instantly hooked. That summer I went out and purchased whatever gear I needed to climb outside and we went every chance we could get. I only wished I had been introduced to it earlier in life.

Q: When did you get into competitive climbing?

A: When I moved to Erin, Ontario, after attending university in Sudbury where I climbed at the (very small) bouldering room we had, I sought out a new climbing gym. I discovered the Grotto in Guelph

and was introduced to the Tour de Bloc bouldering competition series. I had never competed or really knew much about climbing competitions. They were unlike any other kind of competitive Ryan White, the Head Coach and Program Manager at the Junction Climbing sport I’d ever been a part of, and Centre, started the sport at 18 years of age and hasn’t looked back since. it opened up a whole new facet to wrong. You'll only get really good at doing a sport that I already loved. that thing wrong. I also refuse to accept Q: What is your coaching philosophy? the word ‘can't’. You need to shape your A: I coach youth (18 and under) right now, so my philosophy is focused on that thinking in accepting that something is niche. I find myself repeating my ‘order of hard and then figuring out how you can succeed where you have failed in the importance,’ which is School First (smart past. kids make smart climbers) and Injury Q: Share one of your proudest coachPrevention second (any injury will set you ing moments. back). And then Training and Climbing A: There are so many, I’m not sure how come after that. One of my overriding to pick.

Usually it involves showing a kid principles is that ‘perfect practice makes something they’ve told me they ‘can't’ perfect,’ which I picked up from a close do, and then proving to them that they friend who teaches violin. His logic was can do it.

One of my youngest on the that simply practicing a lot won't make team, who is very strong and talented you good if you are practicing something but thought of herself as weak because she was often up against kids much older and taller, went to a competition for very young and inexperienced climbers.

Her eyes were finally opened as to how strong she was when compared to other kids her age, and I have never seen her put in so much effort. As a competitive climber, I have seen her turn over many stones and discover strengths that she didn't realize she had.

Q: What is your advice for new climbers?

A: Don't overdo do it to start. Give your body time to heal and get stronger …

Listen to your body and get to know the difference between pain and soreness.

Too many new climbers injure themselves because they don't give themselves adequate rest days … Pay attention to your feet, and use your legs to get your body up the wall; too many climbers hyper-focus on their hands and forget completely about their legs … Don't get complacent.

Climbing can obviously be dangerous, so take the time to learn how to do it safely and never let your ego or perceived expert experience level interfere with learning new and potentially safer ways to climb.

www.junctionclimbing.com

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Unbeaten boys look to build on ‘16 season Submitted by London Youth Whitecaps Blue Boys U14 It was hard to believe, given the success the London Youth Whitecaps Blue Boys U14 team had in 2016, that it was their first season playing together. But from the moment the year began, you could see that these boys were ready to make a statement. The Team finished

with an impressive record of 13 wins and 1 draw to go unbeaten in league play as they matched up against teams from Windsor, Kitchener/Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Woolwich and the London White Team. Perhaps even more impressive is that the team posted 58

The London Youth Whitecaps Blue Boys U14 squad went 13-0-1 in league play this past season, which also featured an appearance in the Ontario Cup Tournament Final. Team members include (in no particular order): Armin Bradaric, Mateja Milidrag, Elijah Barnes, Noah Melady, Ryan Ojerrally, Jacob Luis, Muhammad Rafih, Abel Tiruneh, David Cubillos, Justin Olawabi, Dominik Korcz, Mitchell Ryzer, Dylan Dasilv, Damian Paycenko, Juan Sebastien, Matthew Montepeque, Riley Ewer.

goals while allowing only 10, as they shut out their opponents eight times.

In addition to the League Championship, the Whitecaps Blue Boys U14 squad also made headlines by advancing to the Ontario Cup Tournament Final, where they faced the Brampton Blast. It was an amazing finale that took 9 penalty shooters per side to decide the Champion. Although the London boys didn’t come away with the win, making it to the finals is something they all can be proud of! Led by Head Coach Jeff Cambridge, these boys will look to use their momentum from the past year as they move up to the U15 ranks. If the 2016 results are any indication of what is to come, 2017 looks to be another promising season!

www.londonyouthwhitecaps.com

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First full year ahead Submitted by Little Kickers London Little Kickers London is super excited for the upcoming soccer year. The 2017 season will prove to be their first full year

in existence since the Little Kickers program kicked off in London back in May of 2016. The program has seen a steady increase in new Kickers every month for the program that runs year-round.

Little Kickers London is happy to announce that they will once again be offering Sunday morning classes in the New Year. Beginning on Sunday, January 8, indoor classes will be offered on Sunday mornings at St. Paul Catholic Elementary School (1090 Guildwood Boulevard).

In addition to the new Sunday morning classes, Little Kickers also runs classes on Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings throughout the winter season.

Tuesday evening classes are held at St. Martin Catholic Elementary School (140 Duchess Avenue), and Saturday morning

classes are held at Jean Vanier Catholic Elementary School (1019 Viscount Road).

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

Little Kickers London offers four different classes tailored specifically to the needs of children between 18 months and 7 years of age. Since their program runs year-round, children may sign up at any time, as long as there is an available spot in an appropriate class. For more information about Little Kickers or to enroll your Little Kicker, please visit their website at www.littlekickers. ca or call their hotline at 226-980-8909.

www.littlekickers.ca Little Kickers London, which debuted last May, is ready for its first full year in existence. The program, offered to children between 18 months and 7 years of age, provides a fun, positive introduction to soccer and sport

@SportsXpressLON

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Exciting 2017 season ahead Submitted by FC LONDON The ink is barely dry on a 2016 season to remember for London soccer and sports fans, and FC LONDON is already well into planning for an amazing 2017 season ahead. After walking away from the League1 awards banquet with a truckload of hardware, including MVP and Golden Boot awards for both Jade Kovacevic and Elvir Gigolaj, the club’s executives are already looking for ways

to take it to the next level in 2017.

“What an amazing year for London,” said Ian Campbell, President of FC LONDON. “With the launch of FC LONDON into League1, we were able to showcase London talent at the Provincial and National level. Between our success and the success of our partner club, Toronto FC, I think we’ve raised the bar. Now it’s time to raise it again.”

In the fall of 2016, FC LONDON signed a partnership agreement with Toronto FC, giving the club and its youth affiliate clubs access to coaching and curriculum form the MLS team. When Toronto FC made their way to the MLS final in spectacular fashion, the brand equity of the TFC name now carries even more weight, having shown that their style of coaching, recruiting and club management is truly making a positive difference in the sport. More than 3.5 million viewers in the United States and Jade Kovacevic (left) and Elvir Gigolaj earned Golden Boot awards as top scorers in their Canada watched 2016 respective women’s and men’s League1 seasons.

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LondonSportsXpress

MLS Cup, an increase of 177 percent over 2015 MLS Cup, according to Nielsen research. An audience of 1,411,000 watched the league's 21st championship match on FOX, while 601,000 viewed in Spanish on UniMás. The sport has truly arrived.

FC LONDON capped off the summer with the launch of an affiliated FC LONDON Academy program, focused on building a high-performance, selfsustaining soccer education environment for male and female players and coaches to help them maximize their personal and professional potential. The Academy will focus on elite player development, and is open for U8-U18 boys and girls to apply for a trial. Academy player Dante D’Oria, 11, has already been scouted by Toronto FC and is training in their professional KTC in Toronto.

“That’s why we do what we do” says Campbell. “It’s exciting stuff indeed.”

www.fclondon.ca

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sportsfiles

The CTAA sporting scene

Proudly supported by

By SportsXpress Team The Catholic Teachers Athletic Association (CTAA) continues to provide competitive athletic opportunities in volleyball, basketball and soccer for boys and girls at elementary schools in the London District Catholic School Board (LDCSB), as well as at private and French first language schools in London, Middlesex, Oxford, and Elgin counties.

The organization has been around since the 1960’s, and today more than 3,000 students are participating in CTAA activities over the course of a year. Since 2012, Anthony Turudic and Paul Murphy have served as cochairs, and both have been active coaching over the years. Turudic convened the London West division prior to becoming co-chair, while Murphy was convenor for the London Northeast Division. And what are their responsibilities as co-chairs?

“We create schedules for more than 100 teams each season for volleyball and basketball, and we organize playoff structures for all teams,” says Turudic, noting that all teams make playoffs. “We also settle any differences between coaches or issues over rule interpretations.”

During their five-year terms as cochairs, Turudic and Murphy are also

and earn other accolades.

Due in part to growth, including new participating schools like St. Nicholas, London Islam, Woodstock Trinity and AlTaqwa, the CTAA staff has grown as well.

And team members Sarah Irvine and Lisa Santandrea are integral members of the organization. But, of course, it doesn’t stop there.

Turudic says the CTAA is successful thanks to help from top to bottom.

“We have hundreds of dedicated teachers and volunteers that make it all possible for the students to have these sporting opportunities.”

“The organization has been around since the 1960’s, and today more than 3,000 students are participating in CTAA activities.” responsible for all things financial and scheduling officials and booking facilities to ensure that all CTAA events go off without a hitch. And they order medals, trophies, and banners (from Ross Trophies) to distribute to the many student-athletes who win championships

www.ctaasports.ca

The St. Nicholas girls volleyball team, coached by CTAA co-chair Anthony Turudic.

Coached by CTAA co-chair Paul Murphy.

The CTAA offers athletic opportunities in volleyball, basketball and soccer for hundreds of elementary school students in London and area.

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sports@school

Purple reigns in Fall – 10 titles in all

By Pam Bialik The first few months of the 2016-17 academic year saw the Mustangs triumph over the competition for the most successful fall season in recent history.

Between September and the beginning of the holiday season, Western captured seven provincial titles and three national titles.

Mustangs baseball, softball, men’s tennis, women’s tennis, men’s cross country, and both the men’s and women’s rowing teams all earned provincial championships, while men’s lacrosse, women’s rowing, and cheerleading all picked up national titles.

Three of those titles came after sub-

stantial upsets, with men’s cross country and both men’s and women’s tennis exceeding expectations and taking down giants on their way to success.

Men’s Cross Country last took first place in 1988, with Guelph dominating at both the provincial and national levels for just over a decade now. The purple and white victory ended an 11-year long reign by the Gryphons, as Jack Sheffar, Ben Carson, and Chris Balestrini all recorded top 10 finishes to push Western to victory.

Men’s tennis fought through the defending OUA champion Varsity Blues to take the title, while women’s tennis defeated the top-seeded York Lions in the final round of the championships to sweep both titles for the first time since 2012.

While some Mustangs teams were the underdogs headed into their respective championships, the majority of title winners were favoured from the start.

Photo by Western Mustangs Baseball’s OUA Western upset the top-seeded York Lions with a thrilling 4-3 victory to win the 10th OUA Women’s Tennis Championship in program history title is the team’s second in as many years, while softball continued program tradition with an undefeated regular season and seventh consecutive OIWFA championship.

Mustangs rowing also earned consecutive banners, with the men’s team becoming the Photo by Martin Bazyl most successful The Mustangs captured their second consecutive OUA Championship in October, going 4-0 and outprogram within scoring their opponents 48-11 during the championship to win the title @SportsXpressLON

the OUA in terms of championships, after their second straight title and the perennially strong women’s team securing their fourth straight title. As expected, women’s rowing continued to dominate at Canadian University Rowing Championships for the program’s fourth consecutive banner.

The purple and white coed cheerleading team, to the surprise of no one, won the program’s 31st PCA Collegiate Cheerleading Nationals Championship with a score that far exceed that of the second place Queen’s Gaels. The title is the ninth straight for the Mustangs, and in the 32 years of competitive collegiate cheerleading in Canada, only in 2007 has a school other than Western been able to call themselves national champions.

Meanwhile, men’s lacrosse headed into the Baggataway Cup as one of the top seeded teams in the nation with an 11-1 record before winning the fourth title in program history.

However, now that the fall season has come to an end, Mustangs fans should keep an eye on men’s swimming, men’s wrestling, and women’s volleyball.

All three teams appeared on the final U Sports Top Ten release before the winter break, with volleyball claiming the highest spot of the purple and white teams.

Led by head coach Melissa Bartlett, Mustangs volleyball has undergone a transformation in recent years that has led to back-to-back OUA bronze medals over the last two seasons. This year, Western has amassed an 8-0 record to head into 2017 as one of only two undefeated teams in the league. The only other team to find themselves with a perfect season thus far are the defending CIS champion Varsity Blues.

www.westernmustangs.ca

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‘Stangs crown top players Submitted by London Jr. Mustangs The Jr. Mustangs held our annual awards banquet on November 26 at the Marconi Club. A big thank you goes to Frances Zvonkin and all the volunteers who organized the event.

In our fifth season of football, our Jr. Stangs were able to post a 28-18 record overall this year, with the Jv team being the top squad with a 10-1 record.

MVP Kieran Buckley

Congratulations go out to all our award winners who were all well-deserving. We look forward to the 2017 season, which promises to be one of our best yet as we join the newly-founded AAA Ontario Provincial Football League (OPFL).

londonjuniormustangs.com

D line award Mike Zack

Team MVP Raeshawn Blake

MAJOR AWARD WINNERS: Atom MVP: Kieran Buckley Peewee: Mike Zack Bantam MVP: Raeshawn Blake Jv MVP: Ethan Martin Varsity MVP: Danny Jr. Valente Jv MVP Ethan Martin

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MVP Danny Jr Valente

LondonSportsXpress

Stuart Braid

sportsfiles

Brains and Brawn Clinic a big hit Submitted by London Minor Football Association On the day before the 104th Grey Cup was played in Toronto, three CFL players travelled down the 401 to London to help educate young players about concussion safety. London Minor Football was happy to host the Brains and Brawn clinic

presented by the Concussion Legacy Foundation at Centrefield Sports.

John Chick and Mike Filer from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, as well as Andrew Lue from the Saskatchewan Roughriders, led a 45-minute classroom discussion before everyone hit the field for interactive skills and drills. The drills showed the 7 to 13-yearold LMFA players safe blocking and tackling techniques. Then,

everyone worked on route running and catching the football, as well as learning about teamwork.

Hosting this camp annually is a key part of the LMFA’s ongoing concussion education program, which includes Safe Contact certification for coaches, and our pre-season clinic for new football moms.

Every Sunday in the fall, over 650 players between the ages of seven and 13 learn the game of football in a fun and exciting house league setting. With a focus on teaching fundamental skills, the LMFA coaches are preparing these players for their future as high school football players.

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

www.lmfafootball.ca

Young players (aged 7 to 13) in the London Minor Football Association took part in the Brains and Brawn Clinic, as presented by the Concussion Legacy Foundation. Held at Centrefield Sports, the youngsters were educated about concussion safety by a trio of current CFL players – John Chick and Mike Filer from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and Andrew Lue from the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

@SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

I want to be a Black Belt: Carter Patterson Submitted by Olympic Karate We often have students tell us, “I want to be a Black Belt.” And we encourage all students to set goals and work towards them.

But turning a ‘want’ into an achieved goal requires focus and hard work. Carter Patterson knows this very well.

He has been focusing and working hard during his training with Olympic Karate, and he Carter after a match. The talented is now close youngster recently became the Advanced Sparring Grand Champion to becoming a at Olympic Karate’s Tournament of Black Belt.

Champions

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We want to celebrate Carter’s talent.

He’s an exceptional student, he has never been disciplined in class for misbehaving, he consistently helps the instructors with other classes, and he is the current Advanced Sparring Grand Champion, a title he recently earned at our in-house Tournament of Champions. Carter’s tournament success was due to his tactful approach to his fights. Often up against bigger opponents, he studies and employed the most effective strategies for his current match. He competed with technical skill and sportsmanship, and we congratulate his well-earned efforts.

Carter continues to train with his younger sister, Mackenzie, and his father, Rob, and while you’re reading this Carter is either in the dojo training, or he’s daydreaming about karate. Keep up the awe-

LondonSportsXpress

some work Carter, and we look forward to the day (which will be soon!) when we can call you sensei.”

www.olympickarate.on.ca

Carter poses (alongside his sister, Mackenzie) with his championship trophy

sportsfiles

LVC players going places Submitted by the London Volleyball Club This fall, once again there are former LVC athletes representing the club from coast (Charlie Bringloe in Kamloops, BC) … to coast (Matt Donovan in Halifax, NS!).

In line with Volleyball Canada's LTAD

model (Long-Term Athlete Development), LVC's top priority at the 13U-15U level is athlete development first and foremost!

Volleyball, being a ‘late-developer’ sport, means that it's our job to open the door to as many athletes as possible, keeping the big picture in mind! And nobody embodies this model better than our two NEWEST varsity signings!

Congratulations to Lexie Cronk (University of Toronto) and Lindsay Kleuskens (Ryerson University) on signing for next fall! These two were selected to 15U Fury teams, focused on the development process and three years of hard work later, they were named to Team Ontario and are now off to take on the university league's best!

Andre Foreman (playing at Fanshawe)

Lindsay Kleuskens (signed to Ryerson)

Sebastian Lethbridge (playing at Fanshawe)

Charlie Bringloe (playing at Thompson Rivers University in BC)

If you are an athlete, coach or volunteer interested in joining the LVC Family and growing with us, feel free to email us at info@lvcfire.com or head to our website. #weareLVC

www.lvcfire.com LVC ALUMNI @ SCHOOL In the new year, if you're near a university or college gym, check out these former LVC athletes in action! Sorted from west to east ...

Charlie Bringloe - Thompson Rivers University (LVC Class of '15) Pierce Johnson - University of Windsor (Class of '16) Robert Carter - St. Clair College (Class of '16) Joey Laporte - St. Clair College (Class of '14) Evan Hammond - Western University (Class of '14) Nathan Phelps - Western University (Class of '14) Andre Foreman - Fanshawe College (Class of '15) Sam Otten - Fanshawe College (Class of '15) Alec Bugler - Fanshawe College (Class of '15) James Jackson - Fanshawe College (Class of '15) Sebastian Lethbridge - Fanshawe College (Class of '15) Ripley Woodhouse - Fanshawe College (Class of '15) Allysha Couch - Fanshawe College (Class of '15) Mike Liscumb - Fanshawe College (Class of '13) David Doty - McMaster University (Class of '16) Andrew Richards - McMaster University (Class of '14) Sarah Bate - Mohawk College (Class of '16) Daiken Edwards - University of Guelph (Class of '16) Jon Loos - University of Waterloo (Class of '15) Kuil Schoneveld - University of Waterloo (Class of '15) Matt Mawdsley - University of Waterloo (Class of '15) Aidan Simone - University of Waterloo (Class of '13) Kerissa Woolley - Humber College (Class of '16) Brynne Coleman - Humber College (Class of '13) Taylor Jordan - Ryerson University (Class of '16) Will Otten - Ryerson University (Class of '13) Griffin Williams - Trent University (Class of '13) Matt Donovan - Dalhousie University (Class of '13)

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

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Sharks attack start of season Submitted by London Sharks Volleyball The London Sharks’ presence in Ontario is growing stronger. Starting the season, the 15U Girls Great Whites and the 14U Girls Great Whites solidified their positions as the strongest teams in their own divisions in the city by winning Silver

and Bronze, respectively, in the Ontario Cup tournament.

The 13U Girls, meanwhile, in their first time participating officially in a tournament with the Ontario Volleyball Association, also acquired a silver medal.

We are envisioning a great future for this young group of girls, made up mostly of new players, graduates from the developmental programs and a couple of reinforcements from the 12U division.

The success achieved by Sharks Volleyball clubs is founded on the structured Developmental Programs that are offered -- starting with the Little Sharks program for kids aged 5 to 9 years old, and then the Junior Academy program for kids 10 to 12 years old, where the athletes are exposed to stages 2 and 3 of the LTAD (Long-Term Athlete Development) model, as part of Canadian Sports for Life (CS4L). Athletes 13 to 18 years old will be exposed to stages 4 and 5 of the LTAD model through the London Youth City League and the Competitive teams, ensuring a true Long-Term Athlete Development model. Our sole purpose is to offer an opportunity for everybody to experience the game of Volleyball and participate successfully at any level: recreational, developmental or competitive.

13U Girls Great Whites

Join the London Youth City League London Sharks Volleyball is proud to offer the Youth City League, which is perfect for 12 to 16-year-old boys and girls interested in learning the game, improving their skills and having a lot of fun.

This program runs two times a week (one day of practice and one day of matches against two teams in the same division). • 16U Girls & 16U Boys (Born 20012003). Practices are on Tuesdays, and matches are on Thursdays. The program runs from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm.

The cost is only $125 for the 10 weeksession, and each player gets a team jersey.

Last session we had six teams participating. We are expecting to grow to 10 teams for Session II (January 10, 2017 to March 12, 2017). Late registrations are accepted.

For complete information about our programs, visit www.londonsharks. ca, email info@londonsharks.ca or call 519-636-2295.

14U Girls Great Whites

www.londonsharks.ca

15U Girls Great Whites

@SportsXpressLON

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Busload headed to Ontario Senior Games

By Kim Benke, for London Senior Games London’s Senior (55+) athletes will go to the Ontario Senior Games in Cobourg on Feb 21-23. A busload of Londoners will make the trek to compete in 10 Pin bowling, Skiing, Badminton, Curling, Duplicate Bridge, Hockey, Prediction Skating, Table Tennis & Volleyball.

Events generally offer age groups – 55+ and 65+; and team, doubles, mixed doubles or singles, as appropriate.

All Londoners are invited to participate Otto Benke, Gogi Khokha, Gold in the London Senior 65+ Men Table Tennis

Norma Beck, Bernadette Pitt, Gold 55+ Women Table Tennis

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Norene Clancy, Vera Capirchio, Gold 65+ Women Table Tennis

LondonSportsXpress.ca

Games. The Summer Games will be held in May and June.

This year’s local Gold medalists include: Otto Benke in Men’s 65 Prediction Skating, Barry Brigham in Men’s 55 and Kim Benke in Women’s 55.

Table Tennis attracted another 20 participants. Gold medals went to: Bernadette Pitt & Norma Beck in W55, Norene Clancy & Vera Capirchio in W 65, Eugene Kolesinski & Jim Dwyer in M55, Gogi Khokha & Otto Benke in M65, Bernadette Pitt & Tim Bobier in Mx 55, and Norene Clancy & Gogi Khokha in Mx 65.

Bob (Br), Don (S), Bill (G), Joe

Table Tennis (left to right): Barry Fay, Mitch Lupa, Hugh Beck (convener)

LondonSportsXpress

Other local events include: 8 Ball, which was won by Bob Callahan, and Snooker, won by Bill Lawrence; also Wii bowling & Crokinole, just for fun.

Meanwhile, London will be sending five volleyball teams to Cobourg - 55+ W, 55+ M, 55+ Coed, 65+ W, 65+ M. A fun volleyball tournament was made up of the players that had signed up. There were nine teams and everyone played all afternoon. Gold medal winners were: Aileen Reid Captain, Paul Witmer, Mike Hook, Tracy Weaver, Peter Stainton, Miro Hudecek and Jackie Piccolotto.

www.londonseniorgames.com

Eugene Kolesinski, Jim Dwyer, Gold 55+ Men Table Tennis

Prediction Skating: Barry Brigham, Gold 55+ Men, Otto Benke, Gold 65+ Men, Kim Benke, Gold 55+ Women

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Balling in Woodstock

By SportsXpress Team, contributions by Russ Coomber and photo by Ellerby Photography The courts are busy in Woodstock this winter, as the Woodstock Oxford Minor Basketball Association (WOMBA) currently has more than 24 teams and 250 youngsters playing house league basketball within the organization. From Minor Atom to Midget, kids from 6 to 16 are having a ball at two schools every Sunday in Woodstock.

The WOMBA season runs from midOctober to the beginning of March, and

the organization is run entirely by volunteers, from the team’s coaches to the league executive and league convenors.

In other words, it’s all about the love of basketball and healthy physical activity for youngsters in Woodstock.

And the players have something special in store in the new year.

“Each year WOMBA organizes a London Lightning game for the kids and their families at a discounted rate,” said Russ

Coomber, the current league president.

This year that will be Saturday, January 14, 2017, as the Lightning will take on the Kitchener-Waterloo Titans at Budweiser Gardens. Tip-off time is 7pm, and WOMBA players are expected to be wearing their team jerseys in the stands.

Coomber, who is in his third year as league president, played basketball as a youngster himself, picking up the game at age 12. He started coaching when he was 19, and he began refereeing at 24.

And he’s proud to serve as president of a league that is providing 250 kids a fun and affordable opportunity to play the game of basketball.

WOMBA’s mission is to foster the growth of youth basketball and to promote the game to kids of all abilities, through skill development and team participation in a fair, safe and supportive environment. Two years ago they went online for the first time, and they’re hoping to continue to grow and flourish – on and off the court.

www.womba.ca

One of the 24 WOMBA teams this year, sponsored by Knowledge First Financial, poses for a photo.

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Lightning land talented White Submitted by the London Lightning When you have the chance to sign a 6-foot-8, 25-year-old forward who was chosen in the first round of the 2012 NBA draft, do you think twice? Certainly, you have conversations and make sure it is a good fit. And then you smile at the fact that you are bringing in a player with the potential to help lift your team back to a championship.

Royce White, a Minnesota native, played collegiately at Iowa State University, where he led his team in points, rebounds, assists, steals and blocks. He’s a forward with guard-like skills, as he has range with his shot and also the ability to dominate down low. He sees the whole court and makes some

pretty passes. He had one of the best college careers in the NCAA in the past 10 years, and the Lightning are excited to see what he can bring to London and the National Basketball League of Canada.

White was drafted 16th overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2012 NBA draft.

He spent time with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Sacramento Kings as well.

Since then, White has been busy building his own non-profit organization, Anxious Minds, which works to help progress the topic of mental health to the forefront of social issues. And he hopes to bring that conversation to London as well, bringing local athletes into the conversation.

The London Lightning organization is

thrilled to have White on the roster. At the young age of 25, he has a lot of basketball left in him to play. He will bring a selfless, team-first approach to a team dedicated to working together, and he will surely be fun to watch this season.

Visit golightning.ca for updates throughout the season.

www.lightningbasketball.ca

LIGHTNING HOME SCHEDULE all games at Budweiser Gardens at 7pm *2pm **7:30pm Jan 01 - vs Express* Jan 05 - vs River Lions Jan 07 - vs Titans Jan 14 - vs Titans Jan 15 - vs Express* Jan 28 - vs River Lions Feb 04 - vs Miracles Feb 18 - vs A's Feb 20 - vs Hurricanes* Mar 11 - vs River Lions Mar 16 - vs Titans Mar 20 - vs A's Apr 01 - s Express Apr 05 - vs Highlanders Apr 12 - vs Mill Rats Apr 15 - vs Express** Apr 19 - vs Titans Apr 25 - vs Storm Apr 30 - vs A's*

Royce White, a former first-round NBA draft pick, has landed with the London Lightning in his journey back to the court.

@SportsXpressLON

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Extreme Indoor Golf is a fantastic way to keep your golf game in tip top shape during the off season.

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Juniors progress and National success Submitted by London Junior Golf Development Centre The new year has started, and the balls are flying! The juniors are using our indoor location, Performance Golf London, to be exposed to the game as well as to develop individual skills. Led by award-winning PGA golf professional Brian Gallant, our nationally-recognized program by Golf Canada has three key components during the indoor season: TRAIN - With Flightscope, video, various training aids and top level coaching, the focus on the fundamentals of movement and golf keeps our juniors advancing.

PRACTICE – Using the Flightscope Skills App, our juniors practice hitting

various shots to different targets, gaining points to track progress.

PLAY – Our juniors develop strategy while having fun by playing the world’s top courses on our HD Golf Simulator.

TEAM LONDON Our competitive junior teams are training the four cornerstones of the game – technical, physical, mental and tactical skills. The commitment to supporting each junior and his/her personal development is the cornerstone of the team.

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

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SUCCESS The best golfers from across Canada on the Maple Leaf Junior Tour gathered in November at Legacy Golf Club in Pheonix, Arizona. Two Team London juniors, Cam Kellett and Carson DeThomasis, travelled to the event to compete for the junior title.

The three days of desert and sun was a great test for the juniors. After rounds of 78-77-73, which included six birdies, Carson finished T17th. With an eagle on the 18th hole, Cam finished the opening round in 2nd place with a 1 under par round of 70. He shot an identical round of 1 under par 70 in the 2nd round, which included five birdies and an eagle (again on the 18th hole) to remain in 2nd position. Cam’s final round of 73 was strong enough to finish the MJT National Championship in 2nd place.

Congrats to Carson and Cam on representing Team London in Arizona!

www.londonjuniorgolf.com

Team London junior Cam Kellett with Adam Cornelson

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sportsfiles

Two National titles; Representing Canada Submitted by Power Cheer Gym Over 100 Collegiate-aged athletes took the floor at the end of November and brought home two National Championships. The Western Mustangs won their 31st National Title, and Crazy Fish won their first Open 4.2 National Title. Western All Girl finished 2nd to the Laurier Golden Hawks in a tough division, and the Fanshawe Black Falcons came in 2nd up against the Nationals’ top Small Coed University teams (4 or less males).

The Power Cheer Gym is the number one training facility in Canada for athletes wishing to pursue the sport after graduation from high school.

The Viper Program kicked off its sea-

son with an in-house Gym Showcase featuring five teams from our Youth, Junior and Senior programs. Parents, family and friends got their first taste of what our teams will be offering this season. The afternoon also featured the debut of the new uniforms that our advanced level teams will be wearing this season.

The competition season for the Vipers starts in January and rolls full steam ahead until mid-April, with teams traveling to St. Catharines, Brampton, Kitchener, Barrie, Orlando (Florida) and Niagara Falls.

The PCG is also happy to announce that 10 athletes (and PCG Coaches) have

been selected to represent Canada at this year’s World Cheerleading Championships. PCG Owner and Western Coach David-Lee Tracey will be coaching the co-ed team once again, and joining him will be coaches Kurt Ford, Max Pfeiffer and Josh Kashef. Senior Coach Kaitlyn Harvey and Mustang Natalie Wong will represent Canada on the All Girl team. Jessie Pinkney, Sam Yerkie and Kayla Taylor from Western AllGirl were selected to the National team prep program.

We’re always asked, “can we still join a team now that the season has started?”

And the answer is always YES! Every team and ability level has openings, and the gym offers a big discount on registration for athletes wishing to get involved mid-year. Interested athletes/parents are invited to call the gym at 519-667-0565 or drop in any day of the week to tour the facility and even participate in a team workout!

E-mail: pcg@powercheergym.com.

www.powercheergym.com Senior Surge performs in front of family and friends at the PCG Showcase

pcgvipers

Adrenaline (Junior 3) poses with their new uniforms

@PCGVipers

Youth, Junior and Senior teams took part in the PCG Showcase

Over 120 Collegiate athletes took the floor in November

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sportsfiles

Early returns for young Royals Submitted by CheerStrike The CheerStrike Royals have started are the fiercest 6, 5 and 4-year-olds we and 6-year-olds who can tumble, jump the 2016/2017 competitive season off know. They walked away with the firstand stunt like superstars. strong with two great showings -- first place trophy in the Tiny Level 1 division.

We are all so proud of everyone’s acat the Very Scary Cheer Challenge in Our Mini Majesty beat some very talcomplishments and we look forward to Sandusky, Ohio, and then at the ‘Cheer ented teams to win first place in the Mini the rest of our competitive season! for the Cure’ in Oshawa, Ontario.

Level 2 division. They are a team of 8, 7 www.cheerstrikeroyals.com Nine of our competitive teams took to the floor on December 3 and 4 at the Oshawa Tribute Communities Centre. At the end of the weekend, the tally of finishes included two fourths, three thirds, a second place and three first place finishes.

Our Junior Empire team hit a fantastic routine to claim their first-place trophy. This is a team of girls aged 10 to 14 who come to practice every week with positive attitudes and willing spirits.

Hailey Thom from the Tiny Knights in her CheerStrike Armour Our Tiny Knights in Armour A base group from the Mini Majesty team The Junior Empire team performs a pyramid

SportsXpress Jeep powered by

Greg Matthison (SportsXpress) and Matt Rothwell (London City) have teamed up again with a cool new sports jeep.

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sportsfiles

Gymnasts, cheerleaders reach podium Submitted by London Gymnastics Academy

LGA Competitive team off to a fantastic start!

London Gymnastics Academy's Competitive Provincial Level 6-10 and National athletes are definitely off to a fantastic start this competition season!

These LGA superstars competed in their first provincial qualifier in Burlington at the beginning of December, and we couldn't be more proud!

Congratulations to all of the athletes, and a special shout out to the athletes that placed in the Top 3 Overall in their respected categories:

• 1st Overall: Emma Crowell, Mia Sellars • 2nd Overall: Abigail Roberts, Alice Zaric • 3rd Overall: Lauren Delage, Helene Bouffard We wish all of the Provincial Level 3-10 athletes the best of luck at their next qualifier in St. Catharines in the new year on January 19-22! LGA ALL THE WAY!

Heat Cheerleaders start season with a bang!

Our athletes worked hard all summer to start LGA gymnasts competed at the provincial qualifier in Burlington in December, and off the competition season came away with several individual medals. strong, and that effort and and Cheer classes to get ready for next determination is beginning to pay off. In season’s tryouts!

December, we had nine teams take to the Recreational Gymnastics – Fun and floor in Oshawa at Cheer-4-The-Cure. We Learning at LGA! are so proud of these girls for their team 2017 is here! We wish all of our LGA spirit and sportsmanship, and also for coming home with two first-place finishes families a happy and prosperous new and for all teams placing in the top four of year! There are so many wonderful children and families that walk through our their respective divisions. doors each and every day … all here to We are excited to learn and to grow in the exciting sport of continue our competition gymnastics! We are privileged to serve journey this year, but we each and every one of you. were also happy to take With nearly 150 recreational classes a bonding break at our to choose from (from tots to adults), Holiday Party. Our aththere is plenty of opportunity for children letes train hard, but they and adults to enjoy gymnastics at LGA! also know how to have Registration for our Winter Session is onfun and build a real sistergoing, and although many of our classes hood among them! are full please feel free to contact the ofIf you are interested fice if you still wish to register.

We will do in joining the program, everything we can to accommodate you if check out our Tumble at all possible.

Registration is currently open for our exciting and popular PA Day Camps and March Break Camp. Please visit our website at www.londongymnasticsacademy.com for all available days/times of our classes and camps. You are always welcome to observe classes from our viewing area, and one of our office staff would be happy to answer any questions you might have. We look forward to meeting you!

londongymnasticsacademy.com Nine Heat Cheerleading teams took to the floor in Oshawa at Cheer-4-The-Cure.

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sportsfiles

The Best Gift of All Submitted by The Little Gym of London This was sent to me anonymously, and I felt that it should be shared with all parents …

One of my friends asked, “Why do you pay so much money for your kids to do all their sports?” Well, I have a confession to make. I don't pay for my kids to do sports. Personally, I couldn't care less about what sport they play.

So, then, if I am not paying for sports, what am I paying for?

I pay for: 1. Those moments when my kids become so tired they want to quit but don't.

2. Those days when my kids come home from school and are "too tired" to go to their training but they go anyway.

3. My kids to learn to be disciplined, focused and dedicated.

4. To learn to take care of their body and equipment.

5. To learn to work with others and to be good team mates, gracious in defeat and humble in success.

6. To learn to deal with disappointment, when they don't get that placing or title they'd hoped for, but still they go back week after week giving it their best shot.

7. To learn to make and accomplish goals.

8. To respect, not only themselves, but other athletes, officials and coaches.

9. To learn that it takes hours and hours, years and years of hard work and practice to create a champion and that success does not happen overnight.

10. To be proud of small achievements, and to work towards long term goals.

11. The opportunity my kids have and will have to make life-long friendships, create lifelong memories, to be as proud of their achievements as I am.

12. My kids can be out on the field or in the gym instead of in front of a screen... ... I could go on but, to be short, I don't pay for sports. I pay for the opportunities that sport provides my kids to develop attributes that will serve them well throughout their lives and give them the opportunity to bless the lives of others.

And from what I have seen so far, I think it’s a great investment!

Looking for a great investment?

Contact us at The Little Gym! 519-642-0660!

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The Little Gym of London provides children with the opportunity to explore their physical environment, while also growing socially, emotionally, and intellectually. In short, it’s a great investment for your child to become the best they can be.

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MacDougall medals down under Submitted by Middlesex Swimming Middlesex Masters swimmer Terri MacDougall competed at the Pan Pacific Masters Games in Gold Coast, Australia from November 4-6, 2016, and the talent-

ed swimmer set a new Games swimming record in the 100m breaststroke in the 50-54 age category with a time of 37.56 seconds.

MacDougall swam four races in all. In the Long Course Meters 50m freestyle, she posted a time of 30.10 seconds, just missing matching an Ontario record (30.08). In the LCM 100m breaststroke, MacDougall did achieve a new Ontario record for the 50-54 age group, posting a time of 1:24.16 (the Canadian record is 1:23.67). In the LCM 200m breaststroke, she also set a new Ontario record, finishing in a time of 3:10.50.

Approximately 12,000 participants from all over the world gathered in Gold

Coast for the Pan Pacific Masters Games, a multi-sport event that has stamped itself on the calendar at the beginning of November every two years. More than 40 sports are on the program, with team sports including softball, touch football, soccer, basketball and baseball, and individual sports ranging from swimming, athletics, tennis and archery.

The slogan of the Games is ‘Play it, Live it, Love it!’ which encapsulates its competitive, participatory and social environment. The Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre was the official Games Village for the event, and it featured live nightly entertainment, a sports expo, fully catered hospitality and a venue for the Games’ sportspeople to socialize, meet up and enjoy the camaraderie for which the event is renowned.

www.middlesexswimming.ca

Competing in Gold Coast, Australia, Terri MacDougall, a Middlesex Masters swimmer, set a new Pan Pacific Masters Games record in the 100m breaststroke for the 50-54 age group.

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sportsnews

LAC swimmers hard at work Submitted by the London Aquatic Club London Aquatic Club swimmers have once again been busy training and racing at competitions both locally and further afield.

A total of 195 LAC swimmers competed at the Nothers Invitational swim meet at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre Nov. 25-27. An impressive 740 new personal bests were established, with 85 swim-

mers racing to personal bests in 100% of their events. In all, 37 swimmers collected a total of 89 individual medals. LAC is fortunate to have been sponsored by Nothers Awards for almost 20 years.

Two weeks later, 45 swimmers made the trip to Pointe Claire, Quebec to compete with some of the top swimmers from across eastern Canada. There was plenty

LAC sent 45 swimmers to Pointe Claire, Quebec to compete against some of eastern Canada’s top swimmers

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of exciting racing, and almost 200 more personal best times established.

In 2017, LAC will be hosting its annual 12 & Under Celebration (Jan. 21-22), as well as the Western Ontario Regional Championships (Feb. 24-26), both at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre.

www.londonaquaticclub.ca

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sportsfiles

Creating a lifelong love for dive Submitted by Forest City Diving Club Diving is a sport that combines skill, Victoria, BC to Quebec for various compe- create a lifelong love for the sport. This grace, courage and strength. And the titions throughout the 2016/2017 season. Dive Ontario-sanctioned course has six Forest City Diving Club is a great place to Our Tier 2 Divers are close behind, workskill levels, as originally designed by learn and practice the sport – at any age ing to hone their skills, while the newlyPlongeon Quebec, thus creating a solid and at any level! formed pre-competitive level group is base for future diving skills for FCDCThe Forest City Diving Club is your continuing to expand their repertoire.

PLOUF alumni.

London source for quality diving instrucThis season we introduced PLOUF, our For more information about our diving tion, always in a fun and nourishing ennew ‘Learn to Dive’ program. It introprograms, please visit our website at vironment. Our program speaks to every duces children and youth to the amazwww.forestcitydiving.com skill level, from the purely recreational ing sport of diving, and its goal is to diver to international level competitive (and everything in between!).

Our Tier 1 divers are currently preparing for the busy season ahead, as they will be traveling across This season the Forest City Diving Club introduced PLOUF, its new ‘Learn to Dive’ program, which introduces diving to children and youth and fosters a lifelong love for the sport Canada from

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Front row from left: Kaitlyn Shaughnessy, Tracey Barnes, Mariella Carducci, Marsha Yerema, Devon Romak, Connie Stevenson, Linda Prekup Back row from left: Jackie Couchie, Joanne Myers, Salam Fayad, Anne McDougall, Cheryl Pollard, Sue Ward, Kathryn Cuthbertson, Georgina Mihalopulos, Stacey Wanlin

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41

sportsfiles Accessible Partners

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

George Bray Sports Association When the GBSA started 48 years ago, there was only one team. With the start of the 2016/2017 season, we are up to 18 teams and have a weekly hockey school!

This year we were excited to introduce our Fundamentals program. This program is comprised primarily of ‘new to hockey’ players and some of our returning players that can benefit

from some one-on-one instruction. We started with 27 players in this program, broken into two teams. With the concentrated instruction from a large group of coaches and on-ice instructors, we have seen tremendous progress in all of our players. The coaching for this program focuses primarily on skating and skills development, with less focus on game time. By not focusing on the actual ‘game play,’ we give the players the opportunity to develop the proper skills for success.

January is the start of the second half of the GBSA Junior season, and with the start of the new year all the players from the Fundamentals program will ‘graduate’ and join our Junior division teams

and begin playing games. It is amazing to see players that started in October having never put skates on and needing a skate-mate to stand up now and move independently up and down the ice. You really have to be here, to see it, to believe it!

It is never too late to register for GBSA – if you are interested, please use our contact information on our website or please come and check us out at Glen Cairn arena every Saturday and Sunday.

For more information about the George Bray Sports Association, check out www. georgebraysports.ca. And ‘like’ us on Facebook!

www.georgebraysports.ca

This year the George Bray Sports Association introduced a ‘Fundamentals program,’ which saw 27 players experience tremendous progress on the ice

London Blizzard Sledge Hockey Club The London Blizzard Sledge Hockey Club will be hosting the 13th annual London Blizzard Invitational Sledge Hockey Tournament January 20-22, 2017 at the Western Fair Sports Centre.

With more than 40 teams from all across Canada and the United States competing in Elite, Intermediate and Junior Sledge Development, it promises to be an exciting weekend of hockey.

Our tournament is free to the public, so please bring your family and friends and experience this exciting sport.

One of our main goals is always to

grow the sport of sledge hockey and bring its awareness to all communities. Our own Junior Sledge Development Program has grown this year to expand to two teams in our home tournament.

We always welcome new players to both our Intermediate and JSD Programs. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us through our website.

londonblizzard.com

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43

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Sophia Hladyniuk London Sharks Volleyball Sophia Hladyniuk, 13, is a multi-sport athlete competes with the London Sharks U15 volleyball club and the Senior Girls London Football Academy soccer squad in the SAAC league.

Sophia has been chosen this year to train in the provincial program at the Ontario Soccer Association in the U14 division. Meanwhile, last year she made it through the first round of selections for the Region 3 Ontario Summer games U15 volleyball team. At school, Sophia is captain of the girls’ volleyball and basketball teams (she has played on the senior team since grade 5).

As a student at St. Mary Choir school, she takes vocal lessons every day and also plays the cello, participating with her classmates in various performances around the city. Sophia shows a high level of commitment in everything that she does, and she is working very hard to achieve her goals – both athletically and academically.

Congratulations to Sophia for earning a SportsXpress scholarship!

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Submitted by Puckstoppers New book (now available!) & website will change how grassroots coaches and parents approach goalie development at the team level Chris Dyson is a man on a mission. He wants to change how hockey coaches perceive and develop their goaltenders.

He has now directed his expertise and energies to working with grassroots teams and their coaches with the goal of positively affecting the game and providing coaches with the following: • Address and rectify one of the biggest issues in the game today: a lack of proper Chris Dyson, who is President of Puckstoppers and the author of a new book, has worked with thousands of local goalies & players since 1988

goalie coaching from coaches and teams in minor hockey • Provide tools that are simple and easy to understand and implement • Introduce progressive development techniques • Help coaches to understand the most common mistakes made while coaching • Allow coaches to better develop their entire teams • Help keep kids in the game longer • Develop and improve the play of young goaltenders everywhere

As the legendary Sherry Bassin points out, “It’s the least-coached area on a team. Chris is addressing one of the biggest problems in the North American game, today.”

The accompanying website, TargetPracticeInitiative.com, has provided the global goalie instructional community with a platform to share tips, videos, drills, etc. The site (FREE TO USE) is laid out so that anyone can quickly garner the information needed to properly and effectively work with their goaltender and develop effective practice plans.

This is something that is missing from most coaching certification programs and minor hockey association development programs.

Chris Dyson’s book, Target Practice: 8 Mistakes That Ruin a Love Of The Game, is available NOW Supported by many professionals within the game, including former NHL goaltender Rick Heinz, who is quoted as saying: “Chris provides what is missing from coaching programs, and this is why this book is so important.”

Don Cherry said on a Coaches Corner segment, “I have seen major problems with how young goaltenders are ignored by their coaches or given improper instruction.”

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fromthesidelines

Chiefs campaign for change Submitted by Elgin Middlesex Chiefs The Bantam Chiefs are a 14-year-old boys AAA hockey team, and they are working this season with the London Abused Women's Centre and My Sister's Place to bring awareness and support to ending abuse against women and children.

The effort started with a goal for the boys to make 80 shoeboxes, which were donated to My Sister's Place in London -a not-for-profit organization that provides a broad range of services for women (and their children) living with the consequences of violence and abuse.

Participating in the shoebox project provided the opportunity for the boys to better understand the issue of violence and abuse against women and children,

and allowed them to become advocates against this abuse. Though the shoeboxes, meant to brighten a woman’s Christmas, were distributed to individuals unknown to the boys, each recipient, of course, is someone’s mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, or friend. That knowledge made the project more real for the boys and helped them truly understand and make a stand against abuse of women and children.

On Saturday, November 26, the Bantam Chiefs wore purple in their game against the Lambton Jr. Sting to kick off their campaign on behalf of the London Abused Women's Centre and My Sister's Place. Purple is the colour associated with the movement to end domestic vio-

lence, and the jerseys gave them a voice to describe their effort – to let their peers know that although they play a tough and physical game on the ice, they are united and in support of ending abuse against women and children. The coaches, meanwhile, wore purple ‘Shine the Light’ toques during the game.

The team's campaign ran from Nov. 26 to Dec. 14. In addition to shoeboxes, the team also accepted donations for socks and mittens at all home games. They gathered a large quantity of items that were donated to several shelters within the London community.

Chiefs’ All-Stars The Elgin Middlesex Chiefs were wellrepresented recently at the All-Star game.

Congratulations go out to all the All-Stars and their coaches. Representing the Chiefs on the Alliance West team from the Major Bantam team were Tyler Alexander, Tyler Mosher, Rylan Bowers, and Matson Micallef. Representing the Chiefs from the Minor Midget team were Michael Van Loon, Jakob Marche, Liam McCarthy, Russell Oldham, Hunter Munkhouse, Mark Wooley, Navrin Mutter, and Jake Weston.

www.elginmiddlesexchiefs.com

The Bantam Chiefs are doing great work off the ice this season, as they embarked on a campaign to support the London Abused Women’s Centre and My Sister’s Place.

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teamprofiles

Making an impact on the ice, in the community Submitted by London Devilettes Hockey For 30 years the London Devilettes Girls Hockey Association has been an integral part of London – both on the ice and in the community. Year over year the Devilettes continue to give back to the communities in which they live and play.

This year has been no exception, and although there are simply too many examples of this goodwill to address in one article, it is important to recognize some of our player volunteers and the impact that they have on our community.

The London Juniors Intermediate AA team has been involved in the community since before the season began. In September, they raised money through various events to support the ‘6K for #6’ fundraiser, which raises funds to help contribute to the medical expenses for 16-year-old Haley Agius, who was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder last spring. Following that they held a fund-

raising ‘Pink the Rink’ game in Toronto vs. The Toronto Aeros, with all proceeds from the game going to breast cancer research. Additionally, they were integral members in volunteering with the Canadian Tire First Shift program, which teaches the game to first-time players. Given The London Junior Devilettes, represented by player Samantha Andrews (#21), Head Coach the busy schedule that Ted Brown and Manager Don Beauchamp, made a donation of $500.00 to Haley Agius at the Scorpions Run: 6K for #6 on Sept. 3, 2016 these girls already have, homeless through the London Shoe Box it is amazing to see them project. Additionally, they volunteered volunteer their personal time to help countless hours in support of the First those in our community.

Shift Program.

Another team that has gone above and “The girls were all very excited to get beyond this year is the Bantam A Major out on the ice with First Shift, showteam, coached by Rod Noseworthy. This ing beginners the game of hockey and team was very busy over the holiday seawatching them develop so much over a son putting together donations for the short time,” said Coach Noseworthy. “It was such a fun time and a great experience, not only for the girls, but for myself as well. My team is made up entirely of grade nines, which means lots of new things outside the hockey world for them to adjust to this year. But they have all managed their time impeccably. Between their commitment to their own team, volunteering time with the shoe box project, and helping in the First shift program, I couldn’t be prouder of this group of girls.”

www.londondevilettes.ca

The Bantam A Major team and First Shift participants

The London Devilette Juniors and Toronto Aeros take a photo after the ‘Pink the Rink’ Fundraiser, in support of breast cancer research

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49

fanpass

Paths through London lead to success Submitted by the London Nationals

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John Warren

John Warren was chosen in the 13th round (259th overall) by the London Knights in the 2013 OHL Priority Selection Draft. As per usual, the Knights’ roster was stacked with talent, and Warren only cracked the lineup for one game before being sent down to the Lambton Shores Predators, where he had 13 goals and 9 assists in 17 games before being traded to the St. Thomas Stars. With the Stars, Warren finished the year with 17 goals and 21 assists in 30 games, and he was named to the Western Conference All-Rookie Team and was selected to play in the GOJHL Top Prospects Game.

In 2014/15, Warren played 19 games with the Stars (12G, 14A), and 27 games with the Knights (5G, 2A), before being traded to the London Nationals. He was once again selected to participate in the GOJHL Top Prospects Game.

In his final season in the GOJHL, Warren played 4 games with the Knights and 26 games for the Nationals, where he tallied 53 points (28G, 25A) before he was sidelined with a concussion. Prior to the concussion, Warren was selected to play in the 2015/16 GOJHL Top Prospects Game, and he was named the Western Conference Offensive Player of the Month for December.

Warren currently plays for the Saint John Sea Dogs of the QMJHL.

Nearing the end of the 2014/15 season, Murray committed to playing with the OHL’s Colts, and he began his first season in Barrie in 2015. Throughout the 2015/16 season, Murray totalled three goals and 10 assists in 65 games during the regular season, and tallied one goal and two assists in 15 playoff games. He is currently in his second season with the Colts, where he serves as an assistant captain. Through his first 32 games, he had posted two goals and 13 assists this season.

Justin Murray, who was arguably the best defenceman on the London Nationals in 2014-15, is currently playing for the OHL’s Barrie Colts.

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After stints in the GOJHL and with the Knights, former London National John Warren is currently playing for the Saint John Sea Dogs of the QMJHL.

on a Furnace and A/C Tune-up.

See website for more details & deals.

*ONE COUPON PER TABLE. RECEIVE $10 OFF WHEN YOU SPEND $30 OR MORE. VALID ON FOOD PURCHASES ONLY. DINE IN ONLY. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER COUPON OR OFFERS. VALID AT LONDON LOCATION ONLY. EXP. MARCH 31 2017.

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LondonSportsXpress.ca

Justin Murray

Justin Murray was selected in the 8th round (145th overall) in the 2014 OHL Priority Selection Draft, and he played his first full season with the Nationals during the 2014/15 season. Despite being a rookie, Murray was one of the best – if not the best – defenceman on the team. He had nine goals and 28 assists in 49 games for the Nats. Among his accolades, Murray was chosen to participate in the GOJHL Top Prospects Game, he was selected as the Defensive Player of the Month for December, he was named to the Western Conference All-Rookie Team, and he was the recipient of the Phibbs Inc. Award as the Western Conference’s Most Outstanding Rookie Defenceman.

LondonSportsXpress

Connor Hughes was acquired by the Nationals from the Pembroke Lumber Kings of the CCHL in 2015. He played 11 games and had a .908 save percentage, backing up London’s then-starting goaltender Justin Tugwell. In Hughes’ second season with the Nationals, he moved from backup to starter and played 31 regular season games, posting a .923 save percentage and 2.73 goals against average in the process.

Hughes was a key factor in London’s 2016 Sutherland Cup run, which brought the team all the way to the final.

The netminder had a .911 save percentage in 24 playoff games, and he was named MVP of the postseason.

Hughes is currently playing for the Carleton Place Canadians, and he is supposed to play for HC Ambrì-Piotta in Switzerland, where he has signed a four-year contract.

www.londonnationals.on.ca

Connor Hughes, who earned postseason MVP honours during London’s Sutherland Cup run in 2016, has signed a four-year contract with HC Ambrì-Piotta in Switzerland.

sportsfiles

Ellis Development Camps Submitted by Progressive Hockey Development (PHD) This spring/summer development season offered by PhD is a unique opportunity for players to develop like the pros during their offseason. Mike Ellis, with his experience working with the NHL's top players and prospects, has learned that the quickest rate of improvement is achieved when players incorporate video analysis and feedback.

Ellis has created a curriculum of learning for players that will cover all aspects of skating skills and gameplay. These sessions will be recorded, reviewed and analyzed by the coaches, and then passed on to the player and parent to continue learning while away from the rink. PhD feels that it is imperative for the parent to understand the curriculum presented to their young players and understand the path in which their kids

are learning.

The sessions will be broken down into three consecutive days, with three separate learning specifics each day. All video will be collected and presented on a cloud-based portal for athletes and parents to review. Coaches will be mic'd up and recorded for maximum teaching points to be collected.

The sessions will run for 9 hours total.

(3 hours per day for three days consecutive days. The camp also includes a practice jersey and video analysis. Each camp will be limited to 12 players per age group.

PHD has found that the optimal amount of year round hockey should be 10 months. Any more than that can be overtaxing for young players.

Camps will be available at the begin-

ning of April to the middle of May, and to finish the offseason, the month of August.

www.progressivehd.com

PHD Instructor Mark Ellis draws up the plan for the next drill with some of the Elgin Middlesex Minor Atom Chiefs.

Florida Panther and PHD Athlete Greg McKegg chats with PHD Goalies Brody Borszcz and Dylan Durno during a PHD on ice sessions in St. Thomas.

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2016/2017 Initiation Program Meet our next generation of budding Superstars!

Proudly Presented by Ryan Brown and Stars

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teamprofiles

Season recap – at the halfway mark

By Brandon Piper and photos by London Knights The path for the London Knights so far has been glittered in green and gold.

As the Knights neared the midway point of the 2016-2017 OHL season, the team was rolling once again and displaying a level of confidence over their counterparts that mirrored that of last year’s Memorial Cup winning squad.

It’s a tug-of-war, yet again, in the Midwest Division with the Erie Otters, but the Knights have many reasons to be optimistic.

A star continues to rise in Cliff Pu. The 18-year-old has more than helped fill the offensive void many thought would be left by last year’s ‘Big 3’ of Mitch Marner,

Christian Dvorak and Matthew Tkachuk.

Pu, a Richmond Hill native, led the team in both goals and overall points at the time of this writing (through the first 32 Knights games).

Finnish native Janne Kuokkanen looks sharper as the season progresses, and has not looked out of place on Pu’s wing.

Captain J.J. Piccinich and alternates Victor Mete and Owen MacDonald have done exceptional work in the leadership roles – keeping the team focused through any and all adversity.

Meanwhile, Tyler Parsons has been lights out in net for London. He represented the United States at the World Junior

Championship, along with the aforementioned Kuokkanen and his fellow Finnish teammate, Olli Juolevi.

In other words, there was a lot to celebrate at the midway mark of the season, and there’s a lot to look forward to as the Knights pursue an OHL championship and look to defend their Memorial Cup title from a year ago.

www.londonknights.com

The Knights have many reasons to be optimistic as they try to defend their OHL title, including the play of Cliff Pu, Janne Kuokkanen, J.J. Piccinich, and goaltender Tyler Parsons, among others.

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53

Calendar of Events January 13-14 Sr. Boys High School Roundball Basketball Tournament, Fanshawe

February 3-5 London Devilettes Girls Hockey Tournament, Western Fair Sports Centre

To promote your event contact London@SportsXpress.ca

February 19 LMLA Try Lacrosse, Lambeth Arena Gym

January 13-15 February 18 Neil Barker Memorial Tournament, Hockey Day in Canada, Western Fair Sports Centre Kamloops

February 20 Family Day Adult Co-ed Soccer Tournament, BMO Centre

January 16 London Knights Players Appearance, Jack Astors South

February 10-12 Oakridge Aeros House League Classic, Various arenas

February 21 London Knights Players Appearance, Jack Astors Richmond Row

January 19 38th Annual Sports Spectacular, St. Anne's Centre in St. Thomas

February 11-12 Maple Leaf Monster Jam Tour, Budweiser Gardens

January 19 LMLA Try Lacrosse, Lambeth Arena Gym

February 13 Rogers Sports Celebrity Dinner & Auction, Convention Centre

February 24-26 London Boat, Fishing and Leisure Show, Western Fair District

January 20-22 Blizzard Sledge Hockey Invitational, Western Fair Sports Centre January 22 Kids Skate with the London Knights (Kid's Club), Budweiser Gardens

February 17-19 23rd Annual Barry Hall Girls Classic (Basketball) U13, U14, U16 & U19, Various locations February 17-20 The London RV Show, Agriplex - Western Fair District

January 27-29 West London Byron Optimist AA/A February 18-19 & MD Tournament, London Golf Show, Various arenas Western Fair District

February 24-26 24th Annual Barry Hall Girls Classic (Basketball) U10, U11 & U12, Various locations

March 11 MEC London Race One: 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Springbank Park March 13-19 March Madness Youth Soccer Tournament, BMO Centre

March 25, May 6, June 10, July 15 Forest City Derby Girls in action, Western Fair Agriplex

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May 13-14 & 27-28 Slow Pitch Ontario Superseries, London Area May 20-21 Play On! 4 On 4 Hockey Tournament, Victoria Park

March 16-17 West London Hockey Initiation Program Funfest, Various arenas

April 9 Run for Retina, Harris Park

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