Sounds from the Asian Hockey Championship
13-February-2008
There is something special about this hockey tournament. Yes, there were hockey players, hockey parents, kids running around in the lobby and that hockey bag aroma you eventually get used to…well for some of us.
What I meant was there was a different energy and friendliness to this event. While lifting boxes of merchandise and trophies, I asked one of the organizers, Jonsun, what makes this event so special.
He told me from the tournament’s humble beginnings of 8 teams, this event has always been a family like occasion. People compete hard but it’s also a time and place where friends can meet up, bond and reminisce.
John and Albert from the Furyan hockey team in the upper intermediate division echoed the same sentiments. Having played hockey for over 22 years, John wanted to relax and enjoy this weekend, “It’s the few bonding times you’ll ever get because everyone is so busy!”
Doug from the Banana Blades of the lower intermediate division said, “Our team is better this year. It’s going to be great. Playing hockey is always fun especially when you don’t get to see some the guys as often as you like.”
Darryl from the Zinger Blades in the lower recreation division has been playing hockey for 20 years. This Toronto native wants to keep coming back because of the competition and friends. He recalled a great 3-1 victory last year in the playoffs. Overall, players loved this event because it felt like a giant neighbourhood pickup game where everyone knows each other.
Not everyone one was awake this morning to play. Many players were too tired to give me any comments but nobody denied an interview. Jackie from the Stealth’s team was here last year when there was only 1 women’s team. She recalled the challenge of playing against male teams but at same time how fun it was. Having played hockey for 8 years, she told me how the team from last year split up so that 4 new teams could be created this year. She is excited thus far on how fast her new team is gelling.
Because of Jackie’s team, it paved the way for new players such as Alison. Alison is here for the first time and she is excited about this experience. This Mississauga native plays for the Etobicoke Junior Dolphins, loves working out in her spare time and is ready to play some hockey!
I would have to say overall it has been a fun day. People laughed, joked and smiled constantly. There were no mad rushes to get changed. Players came early and spent time chatting with others. Some players came early to scope out other teams.
Jeffrey from the Panther’s team in the competitive division couldn’t wait to get back on the ice and finish off what they started last year. He recalled losing in the finals in a very close match. This GTHL regular loves this tournament. “It’s a good time and great competition. It’s also a place where you can showcase your skills.”
Some players were here early because they had to be.
Take the goaltenders for example. Goaltenders are a commodity. Some goalies are asked to play on several teams. Randy for example, who, when I interviewed him, played on 16 guys named Moe of the lower intermediate division. He told me he played 7 games already! I assume with more than 1 team because each team plays only 4 games (excluding playoffs).
I was here early too because, well, I had to be and I don’t mind it at all.
written by Gabe Lee
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