While we’re talking about Minor Hockey this week, I wanted to congratulate Ross McConnell, Tim Merkley, David Walter & all those connected with the annual Midland Regional Silver Stick Tournament
Now conducted over two weekends and named in honor of Merkley’s father, Bob, the Midland Silver Stick has been in continuous operation since 1971.
Sunday, I popped in for the Novice, Atom & Peewee Finals and truly enjoyed the afternoon.
Over the course of the day I ran into relatives and high school buddies who were there for a variety of reason and that was cool.
Almost as neat, among the first people I met during the coaches meeting was former NHL’er Gary Roberts who’s the assistant coach of the Uxbridge Stars Novice team.
Roberts is impressive, always has been. And while he attempts to instill a professional desire into his team, he also understands he’s dealing with kids.
Unfortunately, one of his colleagues just doesn’t get it.
Incessantly yelling ” house ” all game, this genius put his team two men short in the 3rd period of the championship game and heightened his ridiculous display by getting ejected from the arena.
The Uxbridge Stars are 8 years old, by the way.
Still, under direction of Gary Roberts, the Stars killed their penalties, tied the game and managed to defeat Innisfil in overtime, capping a great game, one of three very good games on the final day of the annual Midland Silver Stick.
I’m Fred Wallace