June 2019 | Urbanicity Hamilton

Tiger-Cats football is back in season Summer is here and for Hamilton sports fans that means one thing — the return of Tiger-Cats football.

This year’s team promises to be one of the most exciting to hit Tim Hortons Field in years. Led by quarterback Jeremiah Masoli and one of the best defenses in the league, the team looks to be competitive in search of an elusive Grey Cup. But if you need an extra reason to come out to the big game, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats have you covered. In late May, the team announced that this year’s promotional schedule would feature four halftime concerts, Canada Day fireworks, and seven fan giveaways. As well, every game will feature $5 draught beer from the opening of the gates until kickoff.

Every home game of the season will feature a promotion of some kind, making each an opportunity to be at one of the best parties of the summer. Whether you’re a football fan or new to the sport, each game promises to be an incredible experience. The Tiger-Cats didn’t forget about their longtime supporters either. Events like the 1999 Grey Cup winning team reunion and Canadian Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony will have fans of the Canadian gridiron glowing with pride. continues on page 14

HAMILTON’S SPORTS TEAMS PREVIEW WHAT TO EXPECT THIS YEAR FROM HAMILTON'S MAJOR TEAMS

RUNNING AROUND THE HAMMER FIND YOUR NEW ROUTE THIS SUMMER

OUTDOOR YOGA ADVENTURES HAPPENING IN #HAMONT THIS SUMMER YOU CAN'T MISS THESE IF YOU'RE A YOGI

PIGSKIN PETE’S GOT A NEW NAME: GEOFF CONNOR MEET THE LATEST INCARNATION OF PIGSKIN PETE

EXPERIENCE THE THRILL OF ROLLER DERBY A GAME UNLIKE ANY OTHER

THE 10 BEST SPORTS BARS IN HAMILTON FOR 2019 A LIST OF GREAT SPOTS TO WATCH THE GAME

C O M P L I M E N TA R Y

JUNE 2019 | SPORTS ISSUE

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P U B L I S H E R + E D I TO R Robert Cekan robert@urbanicity.com L AYOU T & D ES I G N Ta fa ri A n t h o ny DISTRIBUTION Urbanicity Canada

Urbanicity magazine is wholly owned and published by Urbanicity Canada Inc. All content copyright © 2019 and all rights to distribution are reserved by Urbanicity Canada As a forum for ideas, issues, and experiences, the views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Publisher, Editor, other contributors, advertisers, or distributors unless otherwise stated.

DISTRIBUTION 40,000+ readers per month.

Distributed throughout Hamilton, Dundas, Ancaster, Stoney Creek, Waterdown, Aldershot, and Burlington.

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When the weather is warm like it is currently, it doesn’t take much convincing to go outside and kick around a soccer ball or toss a football — outdoor activity is just so accessible now. It’s of course for this reason why nearly all sports teams begin their seasons around this time. With not one but two new professional sports teams having just begun their inaugural seasons in Hamilton (Forge FC and the Honey Badgers) as well as the city’s famed Tiger-Cats kicking off this month, we’ve decided to dedicate the June issue of Urbanicity to sports.

In this issue, you’ll find details on all of Hamilton’s major teams as well as coverage on emerging activities like roller derby, yoga, and running routes.

There’s even a top 10 sports bars list to tackle postgame with your teammates.

On the real estate side, our first month of branding vacant retail spaces has yielded good results so far.

We matched a tenant for one of the properties we collaborated on and will be partnering with more building owners as we grow this division of our company. Writing about news in Hamilton has led to so many amazing opportunities to connect with small business owners in the city and we’re excited to work with growing companies in this new capacity.

So get out there and enjoy the warm temperatures.

We didn’t stay cooped up indoors for six months to let this season pass us by!

As always, if you have any concerns, questions, or feedback, you can reach me directly through robert@urbanicity.com — I always take the time to respond to everyone who messages me. See you next month!

ROBERT CEKAN

We’ve also included a few non-sports topics like Burlington’s current condo freeze and the story of the former restaurant Jack & Lois.

FOLLOW US

TRIVIA: 1. What year was the Hamilton Farmers’ Market founded? 1837, 1867, or 1898?

2. Who is the current head coach of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats?

3. How many stories is Hamilton’s first skyscraper, the Pigott Building?

4. What league are the new Hamilton Honey Badgers team part of?

Answers on page 19

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JUNE 2019 / SPORTS ISSUE

Sports fans in the Hamilton area will have plenty of opportunities to cheer on their local teams this summer, with the return of the city’s beloved Hamilton TigerCats and the debut of both the Hamilton Honey Badgers and Forge FC. Come September, the Hamilton Bulldogs will be back as they look to rebuild their team to the championship levels they were at just a few years ago.

Let’s take a closer look at what fans can expect this season from the city’s most prominent sporting teams.

Hamilton’s sports teams preview

SHAWN SMITH

Shawn Smith is a writer from Hamilton.

He enjoys sports, music, and reading. His work has appeared in The Globe and Mail and on Bleacher Report, Vice Sports, and Sportsnet.ca.

HAMILTON TIGER-CATS SPORT: Football LEAGUE: Canadian Football League (CFL)

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats are Hamilton’s most beloved team, with their origins dating back to 1869. They have encompassed the city’s blue-collar attitude throughout their history and continue to do so into the 21st century.

This year’s team promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with legitimate championship aspirations. Montreal, Ottawa, and Toronto – the other three teams in the East Division – appear to be weaker than the Tiger-Cats on paper.

With a little luck, this year will see the end of the 20-year Grey Cup drought.

Leading the way is a slew of returning players who have shown themselves to be among the best in the league. On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker and motivational leader Simoni Lawrence is back to lead a strong core that includes former New Orleans Saints cornerback Delvin Breaux, defensive tackle Ted Laurent, and McMaster graduate Mike Daly.

The offensive side of the ball will be interesting to watch this season, with the departure of offensive coordinator June Jones and his ‘run and shoot’ strategy that leaned on wide receiver Brandon Banks’ speed to expose bad defensive matchups. Quarterback Jeremiah Masoli was a divisive figure amongst Tiger-Cats fans last season, with some loving his wide-open style and others holding him responsible for the team’s failures. Either way, he’ll be returning as the face of the team for this season with high hopes placed on his shoulders.

HAMILTON HONEY BADGERS SPORT: Basketball LEAGUE: Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL)

We’ve seen Canadian basketball leagues come and go in recent years, but with a strong foundation and goals of growing the game across the country, the CEBL should be a home for some of Canada’s prospective talent for years to come.

Amongst the teams that are hoping to establish themselves during this first season is the Hamilton Honey Badgers. Playing out of the FirstOntario Centre, the Honey Badgers’ roster is filled with NCAA standouts that hardcore basketball fans may be familiar with. Derek Cooke Jr was a standout at the University of Wyoming before joining the Toronto Raptors’ farm team — Raptors 905.

McMaster’s Connor Gilmore brings some hometown flare to the team. After four years as a forward at McMaster,

Gilmore was selected second overall in the first round of the 2019 U Sports draft. Gilmore averaged 16.6 points per game with McMaster, making him one of their most impressive offensive threats.

MiKyle McIntosh, a product of the University of Oregon and the Raptors 905 team, has shown the ability to play at both the NCAA and G League, and will bring that skill to an already stacked front court for the Honey Badgers.

FORGE FC SPORT: Soccer LEAGUE: Canadian Premier League (CPL)

It seems as though you can’t go anywhere in Hamilton right now without seeing an orange billboard featuring one of the prominent members of Hamilton’s new professional soccer team, Forge FC. The team brings with it a lot of excitement as they are considered a front runner to compete for the inaugural CPL championship. Hosting the first game in the league’s history, its clear that Forge FC will be a big part of this league moving forward.

Leading the way will be Toronto FC veteran midfielder Kyle Bekker, who brings a plethora of Major League Soccer experience with him to the CPL. Upfront, Forge FC has arguably the most dominant offensive presence in the league. Anthony Novak and Emery Welshman both have a big physical presence that works well in this league, while the speed of forward Kadell Thomas and midfielder Tristan Borges

have also shown to give teams trouble in the early part of the season.

One of the league’s rivalries will be the 905 Derby, taking place between Forge FC and Toronto’s York 9 FC. The two teams met on the opening day of the season, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Expect to see a lot more of this rivalry in the coming years as the league continues to develop and grow.

HAMILTON BULLDOGS SPORT: Hockey LEAGUE: Ontario Hockey League (OHL)

The Hamilton Bulldogs impressed the junior hockey world by winning the OHL Championship in the 2017-2018 season. With many of their top players having moved on, they dropped to an eighth place finish this past season, going 29-34-3.

The rebuilding process will continue this upcoming season. Potentially losing leaders like MacKenzie Entwistle, Matthew Strome, and Brandon Saigeon will likely leave the team near the bottom of the standings again, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to be excited about.

First round OHL draft pick Ryan Winterton is a 6’0 right-winger who promises to be a strong part of the team’s next push towards an OHL Championship. Christian Williamson, a puckmoving defenseman out of Toronto, was the team’s second-round pick and he too will have to be a part of any success the team finds in the coming years.

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Pigskin Pete’s got a new name: Geoff Connor wa wa! Whisky wee wee! Holy mackinaw! Tigers! Eat 'em raw! Wow!” Over time the chant morphed to the familiar “Oskee wee wee! Oskee wa wa! Holy mackinaw! Tigers! Eat 'em raw!”

OLGA KWAK

Olga is a writer and musician living in Hamilton. She’s been writing for Urbanicity since August 2016. For more of what she does visit olgakwak.com

Geoff Connor doesn’t remember the first time he saw Pigskin Pete, the bowler hat-wearing head cheerleader of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. It would have likely been when he was a toddler, as he’s been going to Ticat games since he was a little one.

But it was definitely Paul Weiler — number three of five Pigskin Petes.

After a public search conducted on social media by the Ticats, Geoff was selected to be the next incarnation.

The Pigskin Pete character has been around since the 1920s, when Hamilton had two football teams: the Tigers and the Wildcats. The Canadian Football Hall of Fame, conveniently located in the new Tim Hortons Field, has a football on display with the original lyrics of the Oskie Wee Wee chant scrawled across it, along with an image of a tiger. The chant was a little different back then. Pigskin Pete would encourage fans to scream out, “Oskee

Vince Wirtz was the original Pigskin Pete, who wore the famous bowler hat, along with a full length fur coat, and often chomping down on a cigar.

After he retired in 1966, his son Bill Wirtz became the new Pigskin Pete. He retired after the 1975 season. Paul Weiler, a retired Dofasco locomotive operator and bus driver, became the next long-running Pigskin Pete. His tenure lasted 31 seasons, ending in 2003. When he passed, his obituary in the Hamilton Spec detailed just how famous the character had made him. Even while canoeing down remote parts of South America, Paul was recognized by fans.

Geoff remembers Paul as being really gentle, approachable, and nice — all great qualities in a mascot.

Dan Black took over from Vince in 2008, but resigned after 10 seasons last year, citing a need to focus on family.

“Dan was really energetic. Super excitable and heavily into the games. He did a great job getting everybody hyped up for the games,” Geoff recalls.

Who is Geoff Connor?

First and foremost, he’s a Hamiltonian. He grew up in the city, going to school near the original Ivor Wynne Stadium. He’s been going to games since he was a baby. He teaches as a supply

teacher across the city. He’s wrestled in stands, gripping a Ticats flag in one the local wrestling circuit for years as hand, the other outstretched, cheering Jim Nye the Science Guy. Less than a at the top of his lungs as he runs from one end of the month after retiraisle to the other. ing his character, He still owns that he came across OSKEE WEE WEE! OSKEE flag and has since this. He asked WA WA! HOLY MACKINAW! passed it down to around his circle TIGERS! EAT 'EM RAW! his own son, who, of friends before at just over ten he took the jump: months is likely “Should I do this?” going to need a bit Everyone said yes, of course. When they think of Tiger- more time before he’s let loose into the Cats, Geoff’s name inevitably pops up stadium. But probably not that much as their number one fan. “[The Ticats more. He’ll be able to watch his father and my] history are intertwined. So from the stands as he leads 25,000 people in one of the most well-known they gave me a lot of support to do it.”

Canadian football chants.

He released his video a week before the contest closed and it was immediately Geoff wants to bring a mixture of Paul’s picked up by friends and supporters approachable personality and Dan’s from his wrestling days, including pro- excitability to the character. “I really fessional wrestler Santino Marella, who want to get along with everyone, especially with kids. Work on getting kids reshared it to his 1.1 million followers. involved and invested in the games. But “Wrestling fans are really loyal,” Geoff at the same time, [I want to] work on explains. They quickly reshared and bringing the energy level up and getspread the word about Geoff’s cam- ting the fans going in a game, cheering paign. “It was really uplifting to see on our defense, cheering on our players. Somewhere in between those two [wrestling fans] come to my side.” guys is where I think I’m going to try Geoff’s roots with the Ticats run deep and position myself.” in his family, too. His mother was a majorette in the fifties and a junior Geoff is still coming to grips with the cheerleader for the team in the sixties. idea that he’s actually been chosen as “She was always the one that took me the new Pigskin Pete. “It’s the dream to games,” Geoff recalls. His great uncle that I never knew I could ever have. had season tickets they would borrow. I never thought that I would be that “I’ve been going to games literally lon- guy. I’m still trying to understand what ger than I can remember. I talk about being Pigskin Pete is, but it means so much to me.” the team like they’re my children.”

In his audition video, you can see a very blurry Geoff, probably about ten years old wearing black and yellow, streaking through the old Ivor Wynne Stadium

You can catch Geoff as Pigskin Pete in his first game — the preseason opener against the Toronto Argonauts — at Tim Hortons Field on June 6th.

6

JUNE 2019 / SPORTS ISSUE

Running around the Hammer The sun is finally shining again so it’s time to get those running shoes out of storage and start clocking in some kilometers. Luckily, Hamilton is a real runner’s paradise with tons of good routes, groups to join, and people to ask for advice.

SLOW AND STEADY WINS THE RACE Before you run out the door, first hear what Jordan Bierema, trainer and manager at Hamilton’s premier running store Runner’s Den (860 King St W), has to say. His number one piece of advice: “Get some help when starting out. You can get a personal trainer, but it can also just be a training plan you get online.”

Too often has Jordan encountered runners that went straight from being dormant for months to doing multiple long runs a week. This can cause some serious physical damage. “The most important thing when starting out, is taking it easy,” states Jordan. “Run at a pace that is under what you think you can do, just to let your body ease into it. As you progress, consistency is key. Slowly speed up and increase your number of weekly kilometers. In the end your body will thank you.”

To get your motivational juices flowing, I sat down with a few of Hamilton’s most active runners, collected information about running routes, and compiled some important pieces of advice for you.

UPCOMING RUNS Feeling confident that your training is on the right track? Sign up for one of these upcoming events and show off your stuff!

JULY 12, 2019 [5K] SHAWN & ED BEER RUN shawnandedbeerrun.ca

AUGUST 17TH, 2019 [6K OBSTACLE COURSE]

HELL IN THE HARBOUR hellintheharbour.com

SEPTEMBER 14, 2019 [5K / 10K] STRIDES FOR THE GENERAL

DON’T GO AT IT ALONE Runners often don’t just face physical barriers along the way, but psychological ones as well. Boredom can really slow you down. A good playlist or an interesting podcast can be a good option, but turning your runs into social activities might just be the best solution.

One of your options in this regard is the Hamilton Running Club, an opento-all group that meets for a run every Wednesday and Sunday. The group is meant for runners of all skill levels and paces. Before, during, and after the run you get the chance to talk about training methods and upcoming races with fellow runners. And, as the group states themselves, it’s simply a great way to meet new people!

A perfect place to start your training is at one of Jordan’s favourite running spots — Bayfront Park. The Waterfront Trail that runs along the edge of the lake is flat and gives you amazing views. The biggest perk of this location might just be the 200 meter markers that you’ll find along the way. Ideal for setting out a run of a set length or to help you with pesky – but very effective – interval training.

One run this group often embarks on is the Sulphur Springs Trail. A staple for the local running community as it takes you through the beautiful Dundas Valley. It’s best to start off at the Ancaster Community Centre, from where you’ll have countless routes to take. Expect to see a lot of fellow runners on the trails especially in March and April, in preparation of the annual race that takes place towards the end of May.

Another great spot to check out is the Escarpment Rail Trail. If you start out from Wentworth St, you’ll have a 7k non-stop route to Albion Falls. Be careful though as the entire run slopes uphill as you end up on the Mountain.

The advantage of this? Once you turn around to go home, you’ll find yourself shattering your personal bests!

Another great group that I would recommend you to look into are the Lower City Runners. They meet every Tuesday at 7 pm in front of City Hall. A 3k and 6k group both set out for a run and meet at a Hamilton bar by the end that changes every week. It’s a perfect way to treat yourself to a well deserved post-run pint.

hamiltonhealth.ca/strides-for-the-general

OCTOBER 12TH, 2019

[5K / 10K / 25K / 50K / 50K RELAY]

STICKS N’ STONES TRAIL RACE

raceroster.com/events/2019/19910/sticks-n-stonestrail-race-2019

NOVEMBER 2, 2019 [1K / 5K / 10K / 21K / 42K]

2019 HAMILTON MARATHON ROAD2HOPE www.hamiltonmarathon.ca

AIM FOR THE STARS Do you perform best with a goal to strive for? I’ve got one for you: a 2 hours, 10 minutes and 28 seconds marathon.

A bit of a stretch for you perhaps, but not for Hamilton born Olympian Reid Coolsaet. At the 2015 Berlin Marathon, Reid finished 6th in this personal best time. Together with his two Olympic marathons – 2012 London and 2016 Rio de Janeiro – he considers this his biggest running accomplishment. And rightfully so!

Reid’s favourite run in the Hamilton area can be found in Dundas. The Spring Creek and Monarch Loop is a demanding 12.5 kilometer trail over a rolling crushed gravel terrain. “I like the undulating terrain and the quietness of the trail”, says Reid. “I find that the hills make me a stronger runner.

Strength that I can then transfer to the road and track.” The loop starts and finishes at Sanctuary Park and can easily be cut up into shorter loops if 12.5k is a bit too demanding for now.

READY, SET, GO! Now that you know where to go and what to look out for during your training, you’re good to go. So pick your route, tie up those laces, grab a granola bar, and get going. I look forward to hearing about that new running superstar from Hamilton that breaks onto the scene this year!

AYOLT DE ROOS

Recently moved to Hamilton from Amsterdam, Ayolt is a huge fan of sports, craft beer, and good food. Currently loving The Hammer as his new home.

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Experience the thrill of Roller Derby in Hamilton Friday, Tilt bought a pair of skates. “I was ready to go. I absolutely loved it.

Being new to Hamilton, I wanted to meet new people. Also, I was looking for something new. Now, I bleed black and gold,” says Tilt referring to Hammer City Roller Derby’s colours.

KIRSTEN ROESINK

Born in Toronto, raised in the Netherlands, living in Hamilton. Kirsten has a background in communication science and social media. She loves everything food and sports related, making Hamilton the perfect new hometown for her.

Hammer City Roller Derby is Canada’s first not-for-profit, skater-operated flat track roller derby league. Founded in 2006 as the Hammer City Roller Girls, they’re the second international member of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA). Over the years, Hammer City has established itself as a competitive, hard-hitting league. In 2017, the league changed its name to Hammer City Roller Derby to more accurately reflect the diversity of its members.

Carla Tilt, also known by her derby name ‘Full Tilt’, joined the Hammer City Roller Derby six years ago and plays on the all-star WFTDA charter Hammer City Eh! Team. In May, Tilt played her first home game (called a ‘bout’ in derby) in two years after recovering from a broken ankle and giving birth to her lovely daughter Dorothy.

Her partner introduced her to the sport when he brought her along to a bout.

This was on a Saturday. The following

Hammer City Roller Derby was the perfect choice. Tilt met many new derby friends and became part of the tight community. Roller derby is characterized by its sense of community.

“Not just within our league, but among all players. It’s a rough, full-contact sport, but everyone is so cool with each other. Before the bout starts, we’ll just be chatting with each other, dancing to the music.”

Being a full-contact sport, roller derby is definitely rough, but this doesn’t make it a mean sport. Players are very respectful towards each other. Tilt explains: “I’m a big hitter. I will hit you.

But I’ll also always help you up and check if you’re okay. Usually my opponent will be like: ‘That was awesome!

What a hit!’”

Injuries do happen in roller derby. In her fourth year playing roller derby, Tilt broke her ankle. “My foot was just kind of dangling,” she says. She balances it with a dose of reality saying “life in general isn’t safe — playing derby just increases the chance of something happening. But you can break your ankle stepping off a curb, too.” Tilt doesn't consider roller derby an exceptionally dangerous sport. The rules protect the

players and new rules are introduced if there are safety concerns.

Roller derby has become Tilt’s outlet and says she is a much happier person playing derby. She would not describe herself as an aggressive person, but derby gives her the opportunity to let her aggression out in a healthy way and in a controlled environment. “It’s an intense sport. Before breaking my ankle and before my pregnancy, I was fitter than I’d ever been before. I didn’t really change my eating habits; it was all derby. It really kicked me into shape.”

Playing on the Hammer City Eh! Team, Tilt usually trains twice a week for two hours practicing condition, strategy, and playing scrimmages.

Getting the hang of roller derby can take some time. Hammer City Roller Derby offers new members Derby 101 where they teach members how to skate and the needed skills to play roller derby over 18-20 week sessions.

The final session is a skills assessment.

After passing the skills assessment, members move on to the Smash Squad to learn gameplay and derby skills.

It can take a while to get the hang of roller derby, but don’t let that discourage you. “You may not be the fastest skater and you may not stay up all the time, but you just have to keep going.

Just get up and go again. That’s all you can do. Keep pushing. I’m still pushing.

Pushing to get back to the level I was at. And pushing to get better than that,” Tilt explains.

Hammer City Roller Derby is proud to be an inclusive league, open to all kinds of members. Derby is not just for one type of athlete; it’s a sport for everyone.

“Big, small, tall, short, athletic, we have all kinds of players,” Tilt says.

Tilt was never much of an athlete herself before she joined Hammer City Roller Derby. “I never really played a team sport,” further elaborating that she never expected to be as good as she is. Once Tilt became an eligible player, she was rostered to the Hammer City Eh! Team very quickly. “My first bout was a home bout. I didn’t get much game time, but it was great to be on the team. Being relatively new to the sport, I was surprised that I was rostered so quickly. They told me that I was stable and did what I was told.”

Home bouts have become a bit of an issue for Hammer City Roller Derby.

The skaters used to lease the former Target store at the Centre on Barton, but have unfortunately been displaced.

“Technically we’re homeless now and forced to look for a new arena,” Tilt explains.

Hammer City Roller Derby now plays their home bouts at the Dave Andreychuk Mountain Arena, which Tilt says is a great location, but requires a lot of set up and tear down. “It’s an elaborate production. Much more work than when we had our own space.”

The league doesn’t ask for much, but having a permanent location would make a great difference.

8

JUNE 2019 / SPORTS ISSUE

Copyright Lyle Aspinall/ Calgary Sun/ QMI Agency

Calgary Stampeders’ Defensive Coordinator Brent Monson proves his roots are still showing

KARA SAVAS

Kara Savas is a born and raised Hamiltonian; an English and Social Sciences teacher, freelance writer, and sun chaser. Kara is a passionate supporter of local businesses, fresh perspectives, and lifelong learning.

Hamilton has seen its share of hometown success in the world of professional sports. The story of the bornand-bred athlete turned-pro resonates in a “big little” city like ours, where so many have competed alongside them, attended school with them, know their families, coached them, or even just followed their continued success through the years.

By comparison, a Hamilton success story far less often told is one of the professional coach. The value of a coach cannot be stressed enough when it comes to the strength, cohesion, and success of a team. Look to some of the most decorated athletes in sports, and they will be quick to point out the integral role that a particular coach had in developing their potential.

In a sea of local athletic success stories,

Hamiltonian Brent Monson’s story as a coach stands out; not just because of his new role (Defensive Coordinator – the highest defensive coaching position), or his team (the Calgary Stampeders – needs no introduction). It stands out because it’s one of hard work, teamwork, and humility; the kind that comes with “starting from the bottom” and achieving success through a different means than most.

hockey. He didn’t begin playing organized football until high school, where he was a linebacker for the St. Thomas More Knights. He recalled enjoying the competitiveness between school teams, and the camaraderie that came with playing an organized sport at that age. “Being involved in sports helped me understand how to be a part of a team, taught me how to work hard, be punctual, and accountable.”

As the newly promoted Defensive Coordinator for the Calgary Stampeders, Monson’s strengths and skills have brought him success in a competitive territory – the Stamps are arguably one of the strongest franchises in the CFL, winning eight Grey Cups, most recently in 2018, and making household names out of players, like Bo-Levi Mitchell.

These skills would prove to be valuable as come university, he was leaning more towards the coaching side of the game as he began to hone in on his strengths.

“I realized I was more of a coach on the field,” recalls Monson. “I used my

football smarts and knowledge to make plays, instead of my athleticism.”

At this point, he sought out experience on a local level — enter Rob Menna and Rob Underhill. When completing his degree at McMaster University, Monson called upon Menna, who was head coach of the Bishop Tonnos Titans at the time, hoping to help out on his coaching staff. Menna brought Monson on to coordinate special teams.

At this time, Rob Underhill was the defensive coordinator for the Titans, coached for the Hamilton Ironmen and Team Ontario, and it was he who helped Monson get his foot in the door

And he has certainly merited his position. His 10 years on staff have seen him grow and succeed in various roles.

In the last 4 years of his as linebackers coach (2014 – 2018), the Stampeders allowed the fewest offensive points in the CFL. Among the players he has coached are two-time CFL All-Star Alex Singleton, Canadian Football Hall of Famer Jon Cornish, and Deron Mayo, now assistant strength and conditioning coach for the New England Patriots.

Long before this opportunity presented itself, Monson grew up on the West Mountain and was playing competitive Copyright THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

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with teams at a higher level. “They showed me the necessary work ethic and prep involved in coaching football – that was my intro to it.” From there, Monson became even more selfmotivated and committed to coaching, putting out his resume to Division 1, 2, and 3 colleges stateside in order to gain more experience.

While many professional coaches get their start as professional players themselves, Monson’s 10 year journey with the Stamps began in the offices, rather than on the field. By 2009, the Stamps were in need of a video assistant; Monson was hired on, and so the western leg of his story began. It’s a modest start that he says was invaluable in prepping him for where he is today. “You’re at the bottom of the totem pole,” says Monson. “You take all the little jobs, but then later down the road, nothing is too much or too little for you to do.”

"BEING INVOLVED IN SPORTS HELPED ME UNDERSTAND HOW TO BE A PART OF A TEAM, TAUGHT ME HOW TO WORK HARD, BE PUNCTUAL, AND ACCOUNTABLE.” Aside from being a foot in the door, the position also taught him the tech side of things. “Skills I wouldn’t have learned otherwise in terms of computer and video software have allowed me to help teach the team, and my staff. With the work flow and time factor, I can work through it easier knowing how to do it myself.”

It only took one year before Monson was promoted to Linebackers/Strength and Conditioning coach. “Huff (John Hufnagel) and Chris Jones saw something in me early on, and that had a strong impact,” Monson says. “I owe a lot to them giving me those opportunities.”

In the following years, Monson would gain momentum and experience in other areas: in 2011, he became a Defensive Line/Strength & Conditioning Coach, then a Running Backs/Strength & Conditioning Coach in 2012, before returning to coach Linebackers again in 2015. “I have been around so many strong coaches: Dave Dickenson, Chris Jones, Rich Stubler, Mark Kilam. I’ve learned something valuable from all of them.”

Although a bulk of his coaching has been on the defensive side, he got to learn the other side of the ball from Dave Dickenson when coaching running backs, which gave him a different angle on the game. When coaching under former defensive coordinator DeVone Claybrooks, they worked closely, and Monson was able to take on a greater

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role. “Clay really gave me the freedom to troubleshoot a lot of my ideas and implement lot of things, which was huge for me.” He even stepped in as the acting Defensive Coordinator for the August 25th, 2018 game against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, when Claybrooks was hospitalized due to illness.

After Claybrooks took on the head coaching position for the BC Lions in December 2018, Monson was promoted to Defensive Coordinator. In discussing this, Monson is equal parts humble and confident. When asked what has kept the Stamps so dominant in the better part of the last decade, Monson attributes a lot of it to the people above him – the culture that has been instilled since John Hufnagel began his lead with the team back in 2007. “We have the same common goal and it starts at the top. The tone is set by the management, the scouts, the coaches, and then it’s instilled in the players.”

“The big difference,” continues Monson, “is unselfish play – everyone’s on the same page. The team enjoys playing for each other, and with each other.

Each of us has the buy-in, which is huge, and we work hard together to get what we want.”

However, with every success comes a set of challenges. Coming off of last year’s Grey Cup victory, there are high expectations. The Stamps also lost 11 of their 24 starters to free agency and the NFL. However, Monson is undeterred.

“We have to be as good, if not better,” says Monson. “We’re focused and confident.” As for the new additions to the squad, Monson welcomes the new energy and fresh blood; he’s excited to see these players get their chance on the field.

While Monson lives in Calgary on-season, he spends the offseason in Hamilton. “I have my football family in Calgary, but when I’m not working, I want to be around my family and friends back home.” He notes that Hamilton’s growth has been particularly great to witness as someone who isn’t here all year long. “Every time I come home, there’s a new restaurant to try or a place to check out.” That said, he admits he’s also loyal to old favourites, like West Town and the Keg. And what about when he finds himself on hometown turf, coaching the Stampeders against the Tiger-Cats?

Monson says he enjoys being able to coach a game where his friends and family can be there to cheer and support, “whether they’re cheering for the Tiger-Cats, or not.”

“It’s a great feeling, because it’s like being back in high school.”

“Also,” he smiles, “because we’ve never lost a game in Hamilton.”

SEE WHAT’S HATCHING AT NEST! Unique Canadian handmade gifts and home decor items for animal lovers.

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10

JUNE 2019 / SPORTS ISSUE

How Burlington’s development boom and subsequent freeze is affecting small business

STEFANI SOLIMAN

Stefani is a social media marketer and freelance editor. She's an avid supporter of local businesses, Canadian-made goods, and fashion. Along with her love of dogs, punctuation, and the ‘90s, Stefani is a keen recycler and instrument collector.

Tell her a corny joke and you’ll be friends for life.

Community. History. Values. Pillars that define and make up a city. And right now, in Burlington, these foundations are being threatened.

Head to downtown Burlington and on your way to the waterfront, you’ll find yourself passing one of a kind shops and restaurants, many of which are housed in structures over a century old. While some of these are designated Heritage Sites and protected by the City, the building that Kelly’s Bake Shoppe resides in has not been as lucky. For the many who frequent Brant Street, Kelly’s is a fixture at unit 401 with the familiar white exterior and pink signage. With the building now owned by Reserve Properties, there are plans to build a 23-storey condo tower as part of a development package. Unfortunately, this means Kelly’s will be forced to move.

Initially, the Official Plan proposing Meed Ward helped spearhead an four to eight storeys (voted in over 10 interim control by-law. This was impleyears ago) was easily accepted by the mented to pause any further high-rise community. However, the application developments that were not one hunfor 20+ storeys was quickly pushed dred per cent approved. In the meanthrough and approved by the previ- time, a consultant has been hired to ous city council in mid 2018. Support- study land-use. Ward 2 Councillor Lisa ers of Kelly’s Bake Shoppe, owned by Kearns believes this is the right path, mother-daughter team Kelly Childs saying “It is clear that unprecedented height and density and Erinn Weatherapproved for develbie, quickly began a PEOPLE WITH petition to keep the VARIOUS ALLERGIES opment in downtown Burlington is shop in place and AND DIETARY concerning.”

She within a month colRESTRICTIONS ARE continues, “Deliverlected over seven ing on a clear framethousand signatures.

ABLE TO ENJOY INDULGENCES THEY work for growth will provide a vision Never ones to back MAY HAVE BEEN and certainty about down, Kelly and LEFT OUT OF FOR how our unparalErinn spoke at counYEARS. leled waterfront, cil meetings sevunique retail and eral times. The pair shared not only anecdotes, but con- transit area will develop into a beloved crete, measurable evidence of the Bake downtown core that Burlington can be Shoppe’s positive effect on the down- proud of.” town economy. Employing a staff of 37, Kelly’s serves twelve thousand people This is exactly how Kelly feels. As it each week. This increased traffic then stands, she asserts that “the construcvisits neighbouring businesses down- tion will decimate the downtown core. town, ultimately keeping more cus- With tall buildings, it will bring a lot tomers in the city centre. Despite this, of dark shadows and intensity, simiKelly felt unheard and disrespected at lar to the other concrete jungles we’ve seen.” While not against condos in Burthe council meetings. lington’s downtown, Kelly looks to Thankfully, a new city council in cities like L.A., where they’ve develDecember 2018 brought new ideas, and oped housing for population increases with that, a development freeze. Begin- while still keeping buildings low or on ning this past March, Mayor Marianne the outskirts and still being accessible.

The influx of new residents in downtown Burlington would congest an area already lacking space. With the sudden rise of dwellings, the roads will have to be reassessed. Kelly stresses, “The infrastructure doesn’t allow for safety.

There’s single-lane traffic, lack of parking, and no room to expand. Right now, if I had a heart attack, it would be faster to walk to Joseph Brant Hospital than to have an ambulance drive me there.”

Many think of Kelly’s Bake Shoppe as part of the heartbeat of downtown.

With the bakery in a building that, once upon a time, was home to a candy shop in 1901, there is a history in the space that can not be replicated. From its beginnings as a community hub, Kelly wants her store to be a place that people can connect. “We are all in need of deeper connections; people are trying to slow their lives down and this intensification is only pulling us further apart,” says Kelly. And both she, Erinn, and their team all love to be a part of people’s lives. “Part of what we do is giving back – giving joy. We like to sprinkle a little fairy dust where we can.”

They are very involved in charity work with causes near and dear to their hearts such as Halton’s Women Shelter, Home Sweet Home (a charity working to open a long-term home for survivors of human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation), Farm Sanctuary,

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clothing and feeding impoverished children, Burlington Barracudas (Atom girls hockey team), local families in need, surprise treats for children being treated at the hospitals, and visiting Burlington schools with birthday party treats for special needs children.

key stakeholders in Burlington. Kearns says “In response to cumulative growth pressures and development requests for intensities significantly higher than anticipated within the Urban Growth Center and Burlington GO Station, Staff recommended approval of an

Interim Control Bylaw to ensure that new developments in these areas are informed by the City’s transit, transportation, and land use vision to realize objectives in the City’s Strategic Plan.”

Kelly’s Bake Shoppe has been open for

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seven years come December, but their impact has already had a dynamic and lasting effect beyond their years in Burlington. With demand from all over Ontario, they could set up a new store anywhere, but for Kelly and Erinn, Brant Street is home.

Kelly’s has helped provide a sense of belonging to many. With the rapid increase of food allergies in our young people, the Bake Shoppe has become a safe haven for thousands. Because the bakery is gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, egg-free, and nut-free, people with various allergies and dietary restrictions are able to enjoy indulgences they may have been left out of for years. Many young children with these allergies are now able to be included in birthday celebrations at school. Being able to have a “normal” birthday with classmates brings parents to tears because their children are no longer excluded from the tradition.

Some may argue it’s easy for the Bake Shoppe to simply move to another location. But as many have pointed out it would completely change the downtown landscape. Kelly and Erinn’s part in that community – gone. The history of the building – lost. And as Councillor Kearns points out, “the resident community overwhelmingly supports this bold use of planning policy [the development freeze] by Council.” The decision was discussed with several

Pro basketball arrives to Hamilton

TANYA RUMBLE

Tanya is a recent transplant to Hamilton, having returned after completing her undergraduate degree at McMaster. Her interests include health, social change, philanthropy, music, fashion, travel, public broadcasting, food, and reality TV.

Hamilton has really emerged as a basketball hotbed. The city certainly has plenty of basketball talent and fans — a fact the owners of the Hamilton Honey Badgers are banking on.

Let’s consider more facts. Hamiltongrown talent includes tenth round pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft, Kia Nurse. In March, McMaster women’s basketball team claimed their first national title over the Laval Rouge. And as of last month, Hamilton has a professional basketball team, the Honey Badgers, part of the Canadian Elite Basketball League.

On May 12th, I joined families and basketball fans alike for the inaugural home game of the Hamilton Honey Badgers during the inaugural season of

the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). The Honey Badgers faced off against the Edmonton Stingers — one of the other six teams in the league.

Arriving early was a smart play – the CEBL and FirstOntario Place were prepared to cater to the families attending on Mother’s Day and the atmosphere was celebratory. There was live music in the concourse, Disney characters to pose for pictures with, free portraits by caricature artists, and Honey Badgers merch hot off the press.

There was an anticipation in the air — the crowd didn’t know what level of play to expect but it was clear within seconds of tip-off that a good game was ahead. The game was played at a fast and exciting pace; the Badgers ran the court well and were adept in moving the ball. Key to any developmental league, they gave all team members equal time on the floor and equal opportunity to handle the ball.

The Hamilton Honey Badgers easily handled the Edmonton team with a final score of 106 to 83. Despite the 23 point win over the Stingers, the game was thrilling to watch.

The team, much like the rest of the CEBL, is full of young talented players still just beginning or in the early stages of their professional careers including McMaster alum Connor Gilmore who chipped in with 11 points on 4 for 6 shooting including 3 for 5 from three point range off the bench. Starter Justin Edwards led all scorers with 24 points while Demetrius Denzel-Dyson had 21.

A twelve-year international DJ kept the crowd hyped throughout the game, and a garbage-can drumline pumped us up for the various contests during timeouts and quarters.

The free caricature was extra incentive to get me back to another match, too! But in all

seriousness, the game experience was awesome, with a level of play that was competitive and exhilarating.

There’s now professional basketball in Steel City and I couldn’t be happier about it. Go Honey Badgers!

12

JUNE 2019 / SPORTS ISSUE

5 activities to get you into summer mode!

Believe it or not, summer is here! The weather may not always convince us of that, but this list of activities will keep summer a state of mind.

OUTDOOR FARMERS’ MARKETS! Even though many farmers’ markets are open year round, shopping in the fresh, warm air makes for a memorable experience that’s linked with summer.

Each market provides a unique shopping experience and are typically situated in areas with interesting streets around them so be sure to explore your surroundings when you go! Some markets worth checking out are Ottawa Street Farmers’ Market, Locke Street Farmers’ Market, Ancaster Farmers’ Market, and while it’s indoors, the Hamilton Farmers’ Market is a must especially if you’ve never been before.

WATCH A GAME AT TIM HORTONS FIELD Nothing brings out summer like a game at the field with friends, family, and classic stadium food which now includes some new additions like Salt Lick’s stadium stands. Luckily there are a few games you can go to this month. On June 6th, 13th, & 28th, you can cheer on the Tiger-Cats and watch Hamilton’s new soccer team Forge FC play on the 15th.

DOWNTOWN HAMILTON CRAWL Summer is meant for exploring! What better way to get into summer mode than by exploring your own city? Grab some friends, make a list of the places you want to check out, and pick a day to go. Maybe start with coffee at one of the many cafes in Hamilton, head to a beautiful patio for lunch, followed by a local brewery, and end your day with a walk around a park.

The possibilities are truly endless with all the cool shops and stops in Hamilton, and you may just want to do this every week!

A sample itinerary: Durand Coffee to start, a restaurant on King William for lunch, Willard’s Ice Cream for dessert, Bayfront Park for an afternoon stroll, Locke Street for dinner, Grain & Grit Brewery for drinks.

GORE PARK PROMENADE

WILD WATERWORKS

Head to Gore Park Tuesdays to Fridays all summer long between 11 am to 4 pm for games, live music, and food trucks. It’s always an enjoyable time with fun for the whole family and it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors! Follow @dwntwnhambia on Instagram to check out the full music line up and for any updates throughout the summer.

Grab your swimsuit and head to Wild Waterworks as the weather starts to warm up. The official opening date is coming up on June 8th but if it's not warm enough for you by then, they’re also having a summer kick-off beach festival on June 29th. Be sure to wear your Hawaiian shirt to save $3 off admission!

JENNA YEOMANS

Jenna is a senior marketing student at Mohawk College and an aspiring entrepreneur. She loves creativity, goal setting, and learning new things. She is also a huge supporter of the growing specialty coffee scene in Hamilton.

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13

Outdoor Yoga Adventures Happening in #HamOnt this Summer

LISA KISS

Lisa is a proud Hamiltonian, entrepreneur, and yogi. You can find her exploring all things local, fashion, and wellness related in #HamOnt!

Wondering what to do this summer to stay active? Why not try an Outdoor Yoga class!

Hamilton has a bunch of weekly re-occurring classes spanning from the city’s west to east end including an allday outdoor Yoga festival!

SUN STANDING STILL WITH LULULEMON FRIDAY JUNE 21ST (7:30 – 8:45 pm)

Tim Hortons Field Free (every $1 donation goes to 541 Eatery & Exchange and Aviva Yoga Studio)

Celebrate the Summer Solstice and International Day of Yoga with Lululemon Hamilton. Imagine walking onto a field with hundreds of people moving and flowing as one. It’s a perfect reflection of the harmony celebrated on International Day of Yoga between mind, body, and nature.

Yoga instructors Sue Abell, Christine Hamilton, Martha Shea, and DJ Carmelinda will lead guests through a 75 minute yoga practice with a social to follow. All levels are welcome

YOGA IN THE PARK WITH IN FINE FEATHER JUNE 23RD - AUGUST 25TH (Every Sunday from 10 – 11 am)

Gage Park by the Rose Gardens Pay What You Can (Suggested $5)

MCMASTER OUTDOOR SUMMER YOGA WITH HELENA MCKINNEY JUNE 25TH - AUGUST 27TH

(Every Tuesday 12:15 – 12:45 pm) The Lawn at McMaster Alumni House Pay What You Can (Suggested $2-5)

Leave your study area behind and wander over to Alumni House for a chance to energize your body and mind with a 30-minute outdoor yoga class.

Alumni House sits in a quiet back corner of campus that makes for a wonderful escape into nature, and a perfect outdoor yoga setting. Once again Helena McKinney is partnering with Mac to offer this popular summer series. All you need is a yoga mat, a water bottle, and a positive attitude!

The series is open to all campus employees, local alumni, and members of the McMaster Community.

YOGAFEST | A DAY OF WONDER II SATURDAY JULY 6TH (12-8pm)

Join In Fine Feather for a weekly yoga class in the park – the beautiful Gage Park that is. Led by studio owner Helena McKinney, every week she’ll lead an all-levels class with the goal of bringing the Hamilton community together through yoga. Just bring a mat and water bottle with you and meet by the Rose Gardens. I’ve heard a rumor that they’ll continue to run classes at the park in September if the weather is good.

Pier 4 Park Free

A Day of Wonder II will be at Pier 4 Park right on the waterfront! Experience a day of wondrous adventure and activities that inspire a reconnection with the essence of your inner child!

Live art, music, all day yoga, photo sets, creativity, plant-based food, movement performances, and just overall fun and excitement! There will be eight 45-minute yoga classes running throughout the day based on the previously listed elements, meaning there’ll definitely be something for everyone!

Everything is free or pay what you can making yoga accessible for everybody.

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JUNE 2019 / SPORTS ISSUE

CONTI NU E D F RO M FRO N T PAG E

by Pinty’s Delicious Foods, the game will serve as Canadian Armed Forces Appreciation Night and feature postgame fireworks.

Grain Farmers of Ontario, there’ll be a halftime performance of live country music that’ll be sure to get people grooving.

On June 13th, the team’s regular season home opener against the Saskatchewan Roughriders will feature the 150th anniversary celebration kick-off. The first 5000 fans will receive a commemorative 150th anniversary coin and halftime will feature a performance by Canadian rockers The Trews.

July 13th will see the Calgary Stampeders come to town for the team’s Family Day game. There’ll be Paw Patrol, Spiderman, and Iron Man characters for children to enjoy. A halftime performance by a band to be determined will keep fans entertained and Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers will present the game’s giveaway of 3000 jersey lunch boxes!

August 10th against the B.C. Lions will be the team’s only home game in August and will be a must-see game for fans old and new. The game will feature a halftime presentation of the 2019 Canadian Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The game’s giveaway, presented by My Insurance Broker, is 5000 car flags that honour the team’s 150th anniversary.

The team returns home on June 28th against the Montreal Alouettes for their Canada Day celebration. Presented

Just two weeks later on July 26th, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers come to town for Country Night. Presented by the

September 2nd will be the annual Labour Day Classic against the Toronto Argonauts, affectionately known as Christmas for Tiger-Cats fans throughout the city. The game is presented by WeatherTech, Purolater, and Mark’s and will feature a halftime performance by legendary Hamilton rock band Teenage Head.

Things kick off June 6th at 7:30 pm with the team’s first and only home preseason game against arch-rival Toronto Argonauts. The game will feature a team pennant giveaway courtesy of the Tiger-Cats shop.

On October 4th, the Edmonton Eskimos come to town for the annual Wall of Honour Game. The halftime presentation will be Rob Hitchcock’s Wall of Honour Ceremony. As well, the night will be made special by a reunion of the 1999 Grey Cup winning Hamilton Tiger-Cats team. The night’s giveaway, presented by Active Green & Ross, will be 2500 Rob Hitchcock #42 jersey towels.

October 19th against the Ottawa RedBlacks will be the fan appreciation game. Thousands of dollars’ worth of prizes and giveaways will take place for all the fans in attendance.

On November 2nd against the Toronto Argonauts, the final home game of the regular season will be the 150th anniversary celebration for the Tiger-Cats.

Included will be the 150th anniversary party on the Canadian Football Hall of Fame Club Level. As well, WeatherTech will present a giveaway of 5000 retro bobbleheads.

Fans are encouraged to get their tickets sooner than later, as each of these games will draw in huge crowds.

To purchase tickets, fans can visit ticats.ca/tickets, call 905-547-CATS or email tickets@ticats.ca Tigers, eat ‘em raw!

SHAWN SMITH

Shawn Smith is a writer from Hamilton.

He enjoys sports, music, and reading. His work has appeared in The Globe and Mail and on Bleacher Report, Vice Sports, and Sportsnet.ca.

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5 reasons to join a social sports league this summer 1. STAY ACTIVE OVER THE SUMMER

KIRSTEN ROESINK

Born in Toronto, raised in the Netherlands, living in Hamilton. Kirsten has a background in communication science and social media. She loves everything food and sports related, making Hamilton the perfect new hometown for her.

Perhaps you’ve played on a social sports team in college or university and are familiar with intramural sports.

Intramural comes from Latin meaning “within walls” and refers to organized sports played within an area or institution, usually a college or university. The first intramural sports leagues date back to 1913, when Ohio State University and the University of Michigan started such programs.

Social sports leagues are like intramural sports, but for anyone above 18 years of age. These recreational adult leagues are as much about socializing and having fun as they are about sports.

Of course, it can get pretty competitive at times, but most players mainly just want to have a good time.

If you’re looking for a fun summer activity, then I have five reasons why you should join a social sports league.

We all know summer screams for drinks on patios and amazing barbecues. Sure, these are great ways to hang out with your friends, but they’re also great ways to put on a few extra pounds. Social sports offer you the best of both worlds: hanging out with your friends while burning some extra calories. At least, enough calories to enjoy a few post-match drinks.

2. PICK UP ON A SPORT YOU ENJOYED AS A KID Did you love playing soccer as a kid, or were you super into basketball in high school? Being an adult doesn’t mean you have to give up on the sport you love. You may not have the time or energy to spend six hours a week on the pitch, but joining a social sports league definitely gives you the opportunity to enjoy playing your favorite sport. There are no hours of training or intense coaches yelling at you, so you might even enjoy it more.

3. TRY SOMETHING NEW It could also be that you’ve always envisioned yourself being a star ultimate frisbee player, but always find an excuse not to try it. Or maybe you wonder whether softball would be a sport for you, but you don’t want to commit to high fees and an entire season.

No more excuses — social sports are a great way to try a new sport. Usually,

there are no registration fees and the seasons are relatively short. So if you find that ultimate frisbee is not what you expected from it or you just want to try something new, you can move on after two months.

4. GREAT WAY TO SOCIALIZE Participating is more important than winning. Or actually: socializing is more important than winning. You can sign up as a team with your friends and hang out with them on the pitch. If you are new to town or just want to meet new people, sign up as an individual and get assigned to a team. It’s a great way to meet locals as you already have your sport in common.

Adulthood may have made your life a lot busier and you may not have as much time to hang out with your friends as you’d like. A benefit of joining a social sports league is that you can hang out with your friends, while getting some exercise. Again, best of both worlds.

5. HAVE FUN! But above all, the best reason to join a social sports league is to have fun. No one is a professional athlete in these leagues. Everyone just wants to have fun while exercising their bodies.

Leagues are divided in different experience levels, so no need to worry if you’re a beginner. It will get competitive at times, but in the end it’s all about having a good time.

So where to join? The Hamilton area offers two great social sports leagues: Sport & Social Club Hamilton and Average Joe Sports Club. Sport & Social Club Hamilton plays most of its matches at the David Braley Athletic Centre at McMaster University. Average Joe Sports Club’s matches are held at school facilities, community centres, public fields, and private facilities.

Sports you can sign up for include soccer, volleyball, soft ball, ultimate frisbee, basketball, dodgeball, and many more.

Go out and enjoy your summer!

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JUNE 2019 / SPORTS ISSUE

The

Best

Sports Bars

ANCHOR BAR 120 King St W, Hamilton (905) 308-7888

Anyone remember the Honey’s location that (very) briefly was open on Upper James? Suffice it to say, the history of American transplants to Hamilton is sketchy at best. But Anchor Bar has managed to stay strong for many years and even expand. The wings are a pretty strong representation of the Buffalo original, the pizza is one of the better full-serve pizzas in the city, and the TV setup is great. With the great location in Jackson Square, it’s perfect for before or after a Bulldogs or Honey Badgers game.

B A RTO N TO U C H DOWN PUB 912 Barton St E, Hamilton (905) 544-6031

I've been going to Tiger-Cats games my entire life, and have always parked in the same spot on the corner of Barton and Gage, right across from the Barton Touchdown Pub. Though it has had many, MANY different names in my lifetime, the atmosphere here before a game has always been consistent. On a nice day, the patio here is pretty much the closest thing to an official tailgate party there is, and you can hear the Oskee-Wee-Wees from here all the way to the stadium. A little rough around the edges for sure, but that’s what makes it perfect for Steeltown’s Top 10.

B OSTON PIZ Z A

1565 Upper James St, Hamilton (905) 574-0333

This is a nostalgia pick, for sure. In an era when most of the bars on our list didn’t exist yet (also RIP Philthy McNasty’s), the Boston Pizza on Upper James was THE SPOT to watch the big game, or in my case, wrestling pay-per-views. Ironically, pizza is just about the worst thing to order here. But the appetizers are decent and the TVs are plentiful, which are really the two most important criteria anyway. Or just skip the food altogether and just spend your money on cheap fishbowls and tracks on the jukebox.

W E NDE L C L ARK’S C L ASSIC G RILL & BAR 28 James St N, Hamilton (905) 540-1424

King William & James Street have many great bars but few of them have TVs and audio dedicated to the sports games. Wendel Clark’s gets a bad rap because they don’t serve a bunch of craft beers or tout a brunch with the latest in avocado toast. To be honest, when I go out on King William, Wendel Clark’s is one of my stops because their drinks are less expensive than any of the other hip and cool bars nearby and because they serve The Blue Line, which is a raspberry and berry acai vodka mixed with blue curacao and soda — an ideal patio drink.

BU F FAL O WI L D WI N GS 1015 Golf Links Rd, Ancaster (905) 304-3759

If we’re being honest here, Buffalo Wild Wings has small wings that rarely impress me. The fact we’re reaching B-Dubbs really demonstrates the lack of great sports bars in town. With that said, Buffalo Wild Wings does have one thing figured out and that’s viewing angles.

Thursday is the day they have boneless wings available — better known as nuggets. Utilize any of their sauces in multiples of five for 75 cents all day long.

L OOKOU T SPOR TS L OU N GE

710 Mountain Brow Blvd, Hamilton (905) 318-8881

Located in the Mohawk Quad pad, this is the arena food we’ve always hoped for. I know the instant coffee vending machine and (if you’re lucky) popcorn and hot dogs have their charm, but this is what arena food should be like everywhere. As expected, they have great beer specials, and the wings were even better than expected. But the star of the show is their house-made Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip, with shredded chicken, four cheeses, Frank’s Red Hot, and served with two kinds of chips. That buffalo spice also helps to drown out that locker room smell!

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With a plethora of professional sports on the go and a good chance one of your recreational teams are looking for a place to drink and dine post-game, it’s time to review Steeltown Chowdown’s top 10 sports bars in Hamilton.

SH O EL ES S J O E’S

TIM H ORTONS FIE LD

1183 Upper James St, Hamilton (905) 383-5637

Shoeless Joe’s is one of the few places on the mountain that has a lively nightlife; I would suggest it replaced the void mentioned earlier that Boston Pizza used to be in the 2000s. Loud music, cold drinks, big TVs, young party goers, and pretty tasty food too.

If you want a huge screen or a place to fit your whole softball team at a table, this is the ideal place to settle in. We’re talking big — like multiple floors big — so keep that in mind if you're stopping in with someone older who may be overwhelmed by the scale here.

64 Melrose Ave N, Hamilton (905) 547-2287

Maybe not a sports bar in the traditional sense, but it checks all of the boxes and then some. You can take your pick of so many great places to eat and drink; there’s a reason some people never go to their seats!

The Coors Banquet or Coors Light bars are both great spots to watch the game, and not only is The Stipley Canada’s largest outdoor bar, it's home to the Stipley Saltlick, featuring BBQ from one of our favourites — Saltlick Smokehouse. And if that’s not enough, if you’re lucky (or rich) enough to land on the Club level, there's food from a number of the best restaurants in the City.

THE EN D Z O N E B A R & G RILL 1305 Main St E, Hamilton (289) 246-9663

I don’t get blown away very often when I walk into a restaurant, but I was sincerely taken back when I walked in here. This spot is the closest thing to Real Sports or WEGZ in the city, and I’d argue we have better food (and definitely better prices). There are a seemingly infinite number of TVs big and small, showing everything you could possibly want to watch and the space is HUGE, so you don’t need to camp out 3 hours before a big game to get a table. Can we talk about the wings? Ever since the owners of the last Chaps retired (RIP), The End Zone has laid claim to the best full-serve wings in the city. Big, crispy, juicy and a ton of sauces — they are damn near perfect. 79 cents on Tuesdays, or if you have the stomach, all you can eat on Saturdays. The combination of food and atmosphere make it an easy choice for #1.

ODDS BAR

164 James St S, Hamilton (905) 522-0164

ODDS is the newest of all the sports bars on this list.

They burst onto the Hamilton food scene with a menu that features multiple nacho plates including an eating challenge, large chicken wings, and a positively varied selection of sandwiches and wraps. One of my favourite things about ODDS is that they didn’t dedicate themselves to one sport in particular — so often sports bars in Canada just focus on hockey and forget about us alternate sports lovers out there. It’s the kind of bar that would feature a rugby match, Aussie Rules Football Championship, or Bicycle Polo game.

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JUNE 2019 / SPORTS ISSUE

The story of how the restaurant Jack & Lois came to be equivalent to opening a new business.

You have to come into a vacant building, create a team, make business partners, and most importantly — sell a successful product. I had watched many talented people do that before me and paid close attention.

ANONYMOUS

Age 43, Dad. 5 years with the Department of Foreign Affairs. A decade in the film industry and a decade as a restaurateur.

Avid learner of lessons the hard way.

I was working on some low budget Christmas movies at an old school across from Dofasco in 2010. The film industry is a tricky business in the sense that you are always looking for your next meal. Once you finish a show or movie, you could be back to work right away or you could be off for an undetermined amount of time. So I decided to check on Craigslist for any commercial properties at which I could start my own business during the off times in film.

The first property that I came across was 301 James St North. I called the owner and set up a meeting for that day. I loved the place instantly. The windows opened up to the street and it had a great big private back yard that I envisioned as a patio.

When I met with the owner and his dad, we a had a great talk about my ideas and they were on board. I can still remember the excitement that I felt when they told me that they liked my concept and that I was a frontrunner for the tenancy. The lease was only $900 per month and with the money that I was making at the time, I knew that I could float it for a couple months to complete the renovations and get it open.

That night I excitedly told the people that I was associated with at the time about the concept.

They were dead set against it and weren’t having any of it. I was told that most restaurants fail in the first year of operations and that the idea would not be supported on any level. Their numbers were accurate, but I believed in the concept and my ability. The training that I had received working in film was

Also, I was in charge of ordering the 2nd meal for a crew of 65 people whenever we went into overtime on a shoot day… which was often. I was tasked with ordering any food from any restaurant between Dundas & Scarborough (depending on location) for a group of opinionated, overworked, well-travelled, self-appointed food connoisseurs. Their readily available critiques would be the foundation of my menu.

by, I didn’t stop thinking about what could have been. I wanted desperately to build a business from the ground up and be my own boss, with no ceiling for success. I had been working my ass off in the Department of Foreign Affairs to no avail. So I went in to the film industry and worked my ass off there, only to realize that I was just as disposable as the 65 water bottles laying around on the set at any given time.

Then on June 9th, 2010 at 3:57 pm, the magical phone call came: “Hey, I was talking more about it with my parents and I’ve changed my mind. The place is yours again if you still want it”. Well I'd heard that one before, so without any consideration for the people that my selfish decision may affect, I left work immediately and went The next day I received a down to 301 phone call from the owner to James St North inform me that I had the place IT WAS AT and signed a if I wanted it. I was elated. He THIS POINT, one year lease had to go away for the long THAT THE to secure my weekend to a wedding, but TONE OF THE vision. It was said that he would draw up the paperwork when he got back.

CONVERSATION done. I was back on cloud This gave me 6 days to conCHANGED. nine. Now I just vince everyone in my camp THEY WERE had to convince that I could pull this off. I was CONVINCED everybody that so pumped that I couldn’t THAT I WASN’T I had made the sleep. Visions of sugarplums correct decidanced in my head.

FEEDING THEM sion. So… I BS. planned my The weekend had come and attack. I was to gone and I hadn’t heard anybring them to thing back from him. I left a the art crawl, show them the amazing few messages and was starting to get discouraged. When I finally heard potential of the street, take them by the back from him, he told me that he had ‘soon to be’ restaurant and then drop received other offers from people will- the bomb. ing to pay more money and that he had Unfortunately, things didn’t quite go no choice but to go with them. as planned. The night before art crawl, I was sitting at work when I received a phone call from my associates. The conversation was moving along swimmingly. Then out of the blue, one of them asked me: “Whatever happened to that place that you were looking at on James Street?” I turned white and went completely silent. They broke the silence with “You didn’t take that place did you? YOU DIDN’T SIGN THE LEASE WITHOUT TALKING TO US FIRST DID YOU? DID YOU?” Two minutes later I was excommunicated and had no place to live. And I knew that there would be other consequences, but I deserved them. To take on a new business venture without having the support of your partners is NOT a good relationship decision.

I was gutted, devastated, and crestfallen. I told him that if things didn’t This was going to be uphill both ways, work out, to please keep me first in in a blizzard, with no shoes on. Not line. He said that he would and that only did I have no idea how to run a was that. As the next few weeks went restaurant or the inner workings of the

licensing, the Canada Revenue Agency, or dealing with employees, but I had most people against me on this one.

The paperwork was signed. My heart and mind were set on it, so I had to give it a go.

The first mission: develop a design for the inside and the patio and get the renovations underway. I didn’t want to put the place together overnight like a chain restaurant. I knew that I had a blank canvas and that, overtime, I would find the pieces to create the final picture, so I didn’t rush it. And by didn’t rush it, I mean that it took me two years to get it open, because I started getting a lot of film jobs.

Having a non-productive expense that was mainly used for partying didn’t sit well with a lot of people either. This is the period in which it became ‘Club 301’. I was working between 12-14 hours, 5 days a week and then coming in to the resto at night to build the décor. While, at the same time building an after-hours reputation and a dependency on partying.

I couldn’t express my excitement about my new venture with my associates, nor at my current employment situation, so I rallied my few supporters, along with some opportunists and escaped to my imaginary life with great frequency. A road that, while it seems fun along the way, never finishes in the promised land.

In September of 2010, my contract ended on the Christmas movies and I was getting down to some good work in both the restaurant and City Hall to get this thing open. Then in November, I received a phone call from a former producer that I had worked with asking me to head up production for a movie being filmed in Sault Ste Marie. It was supposed to liken itself to ‘Trainspotting’ in the sense that it was a drug fuelled conundrum with fortuitous circumstances. It was based on Irvine Welsh’s book entitled ‘Ecstasy’.

It sounded fun and I was looking forward to my first chance to take the lead for my department, so I accepted on the spot I was head of the production department for a 5 million dollar film. That budget should have afforded me a team of 7 experienced individuals and 2 days off per week. However, I got a plus 1 as my assistant, whom had never worked a day in film, and that was the size of my team. Needless to say, no work on the restaurant was done for the duration of that shoot as I was working

URBANICITY.COM

18 hours a day all 7 days of the week.

We ended up finishing the details of the movie in my potential restaurant, using it as our off-site production office, which afforded me a little revenue to pay the rent. This lasted until March.

I soldiered through with the glow of focusing on my project. And then another phone call with an offer for work. I was to be the 2nd in command of the production office on a pilot project for NBC… in Scarborough. I accepted and my restaurant opening was further put on hold. Then we finished that show and the same team was hired on to do ‘Rookie Blue’ and another pilot show called ‘Saving Hope’ which was shooting back to back for 3 years. This meant that I would have to continue to build this restaurant AFTER the laborious 14-16 hour days.

It was a good problem to have. I wasn’t going to complain about having film work after the drought that I had gone through especially when they’re providing paid meals — I just didn’t anticipate the film work to be back to back to back.

Meanwhile back on James, I started running events on the key nights to build interest in and get recognition for the new space. I wasn’t sure what I was going to name it.

I toyed with the idea of calling it “SHOWCASE”. I had planned on having local and travelling chefs pick their night and create events that would put us on the map. It took a different turn and I needed a new name.

Then came the thought of naming it after my grandparents on my dad’s side; one of the havens of my childhood that gave me great memories and an unparalleled comfort. I wanted to convey this experience to potential patrons. That’s where the name ‘Jack & Lois’ came from. Two of the most beautiful people in the world that you could ever meet, whom always made you feel welcome and gave you your best dining experience in a ‘homey’ setting. It just made sense. Hopefully I could replicate that.

I now had a direction, with a solid vision.

Unfortunately, without the strength of character required, I allowed myself some indulgences coupled with bad decisions that led to jeopardies.

I also, foolheartedly, put trust in people that had no credentials.

THE PAPERWORK WAS SIGNED. MY HEART AND MIND WERE SET ON IT, SO I HAD TO GIVE IT A GO.

The first time it almost went down in flames was art crawl in the summer of 2011. I was featuring an artist at my space, but couldn’t be there until late, as I was 50 km away, working in Mississauga. So, I hired someone that I had met on the party scene who claimed to have management experience and did the books for her family business, etc…

I arrived at the resto around 11:30 pm to find it full of people accompanied by a busy street. In my mind it was a success. I closed down the resto at the AGCO appropriate time and then in a moment of bad judgement, I opened the door to a couple of fellows out front that I had believed to be ‘art enthusiasts’. Five more of them came from around the corner and they infiltrated

19

different guys with their badges in my face while the other three continued to rummage through the place.

They were officers for the Alcohol & Gaming Commission of Ontario.

They informed me that they had 7 charges on me and that they were going to take me down.

At that moment I kicked everyone out, including the person that I had hired to run the night. The officers wanted to speak to her, because her name was on the SOP and she was technically responsible. Through some misguided sense of loyalty, I didn’t give her up, even though her guests were busted with drugs downstairs. I simply told the officers that it was my place and that I was directly responsible for anything that had occurred that night, even though I had just arrived from my other job.

They grilled me for an hour straight.

I kept telling them the same thing over and over again. The actual truth.

I made a bad decision by whom I had brought on board to run the event and I accept all responsibility. After things cooled down, we started talking about the art while one of the agents drew up the paperwork.

It was at this point that the tone of the conversation changed. They were convinced that I wasn’t feeding them BS. The agent in charge pulled me aside and told me that they were going to drop 6 of the 7 charges and cite me with the least damaging of them: ‘failure to clear evidence of service’.

the premises with the skill and precision of Navy Seals. Five minutes later, I was up against the wall, facing a barrage of questions coming from four

I was very thankful for and appreciative of their leniency. They wrote me a ticket which set my court date for November 3rd at 10:30 am. No options. Although I wasn’t entirely familiar with the AGCO policy, I was quite certain that if you receive any infractions before being issued

TRIVIA ANSWERS 1. 1837.

2. Orlondo Steinauer. The current 2019 season will be his first as head coach of the Ticats.

3. 18 stories.

4. The Hamilton Honey Badgers are one of six teams in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL).

your license, the chances of approval decline exponentially, so I was scared.

At that moment I was coming to the realization that I had destroyed my vision, before it ever came to be.

The building was vacant of my ‘guests’ and the team of officers had just left. I was alone and once again gutted, devastated, and crestfallen. To add insult to injury, I checked the sales from the night, only to realize that the person that I wouldn’t give up to the officers had taken all of my money and the remaining alcohol before evacuating. It was a dark moment. I sat slumped on the floor for a few hours before picking my carcass up and heading for the door.

On my way out I realized that someone had stolen my Blue Tooth speaker, an iPad, and my new drill.

The following Monday, I received a phone call from the licensing department to inform me that my capacity would be limited to 15 people because I didn’t have 3 parking spots. This was based on an antiquated by-law that would only support businesses that people could drive to. What’s worse is that it didn’t apply to the other side of the street as it was a coin-flip decision by the City to get rid of that by-law for half the businesses. I was just on the wrong side of the street.

So… this meant that if I was able to get my liquor license after these charges, I would be looking over my shoulder every day for the AGCO to come in and do a head count where at any given time it would cost me $100 per person over my capacity limit and a potential revocation of my liquor license, as well as municipal fines from both the City and the Fire Department. I was offered no solutions regarding licensing. The city was not yet ‘Open For Business’.

How was I going to get out of this mess and get the restaurant up and running?

Grovelling? Luck? A little from each?

If you're interested, I’ll tell you next month. Other hot topics will include: a bad lease, sabotage, more city roadblocks, bad neighbours and the inevitable downfall. Plus some cool stories about good things that happened and a long list of things NOT TO DO.

I bet you get miso soup, Brussels sprouts, salad, edamame, shiitake wontons, donburi poached eggs, charred asparagus, miso black cod, deboned stuffed wings, salmon tataki, butterfish, albacore tuna, whitefish tiradito, spicy ahi tuna, citrus-cured hamachi, scallop ceviche, chu-toro sashimi, torched salmon belly, kobe beef tenderloin, unagi nigiri, butterfish and salmon tartare, cherry blossom rolls, rising sun rolls, paper crane rolls, and sakura rolls.

Is this a riddle?

Because there’s no way that could ever exist.

What do you get when you cross a French-trained chef who’s obsessed with bacon and a true Japanese sushi master?

Just a guess, though.

Showoff.

I’m a bird, too!

insta: @papercranehamilton 905.525.1001 eat@papercranesushi.ca

PA P E R C R A N E

Small Plates. Sushi. Cocktails.

Elegantly folded into a beautiful dining experience.

We d n e s d a y - S u n d a y f ro m 5 p . m .

163 John Street South Hamilton