Bantam AE, 2016-2017, Travel (Windsor Minor Hockey Association)

"Be so good that they can't ignore you." Well, here's our big travel tournament for the season.  I know everyone has been looking forward to this weekend, and I'd just like to pass along a few reminders.  Get your skates sharpened.  You never know exactly what kind of ice you will encounter at these tournaments, so make sure your skates are sharp.  Have a spare stick with you, as well as extra tape.  Both jerseys must be brought with you.  We are both home and away in the preliminary round, so both sets will be worn.  Parents, make sure all travel documents are accounted for in order to ...

“A river cuts through rock, not because of power, but because of persistence.” Well, here we are, halfway through the regular season.  I think that a good look back helps a team move forward.

“Never let success get to your head.  Never let failure get to your heart.”

Well, the World Cup of Hockey is set to begin this coming Saturday September 17th.  I'm intrigued by the setup, and really think 3 teams stand out.  Team North America looks like a very fast, agile group of young players and may surprise a few teams if they are not taken seriously, especially in goal.  Team USA is a powerhouse with very good goaltending and a solid defense.  Finally, Team Canada is just a manster.  There's a lot of international, as well as NHL experience on this team.  Let's face it.  The only team that will beat them is themselves.

Well, it's a great day for hockey! After the hard work in practice, now is the time to show what this team is capable of.  A home-and-home stand to begin the season against Lasalle should prove to be an early test.  I've heard parents and players anxiously waiting for this weekend, and I know it will be a great learning experience. Just a couple of items to go over prior to the game tonight.

Well, now that everyone is back at school, let me wish you a successful and fulfilling school year.  Whether entering grades 8 or 9, this year can be both challenging and extremely rewarding.  Add being part of a very good hockey team, and it can be a great year all around.  Just remember, as players, students, and parents: "Hard work pays off.  It may not today, tomorrow, or next week . . . but it will."

Well, the fundraising campaigns are underway, and it's good to see such organization. Please take time to review the emails sent by Nancy Hannon (popcorn) and Dan St. Denis (meat) and place orders accordingly. For banner sponsorship, make sure that the sponsor(s) that you've signed up are NOT also sponsors of the WMHA.  Please review the listing on the WMHA homepage at the lower left under 'Our Sponsors'. Happy fundraising!  (and happy eating!)