A group of Sylvan Lake’s young athletes have won a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to train like the Edmonton Oilers.
Sylvan Lake Novice Diversified Products Lakers hockey team was one of 14 minor hockey teams which won a two month contest sponsored by Ford of Canada.
They will attend an exclusive event at Rexall Place on June 1. It includes the opportunity to work with professional trainers, coaches and nutritionists; a tour of Rexall Place (including inside the team locker room); and Oilers merchandise.
Minor hockey teams entered on-line by submitting a short essay, featuring their community commitment and passion for the game, along with a team photo.
Here’s the submission by the Lakers:
“This group of players, coaches, parents and fans (family and friends) really gelled when they were brought together in October. Everyone involved with this team has donated countless hours of time to make our team and community better.
“Our kids learned many valuable lessons this year about friendship, giving, and working co-operatively to achieve a common goal.
“The Lakers were entered into four tournaments this year. One of these tournaments was in nearby Eckville. All eight teams entered were to bring food donations for Eckville Food Bank. The Novice Lakers donated the most food almost 50 pounds! The kids were very proud of their accomplishment. Smiles filled the dressing room when we were told we had donated the most even after a tough loss on the ice.
“Parents donated time and a Christmas tree FULL of gift cards to the urgent care fundraiser held in December. The tree was a hit during the silent auction that was held. It alone raised $1,300 of funds for the cause. The urgent care facility is something Sylvan Lake desperately needs and our team is supporting it 100%.
“The kids really love the game of hockey and are very proud citizens of Sylvan Lake. They would all love to win this contest and are grateful for the opportunity to enter it. GO OILERS GO!!! Dan Weik – assistant coach, Sylvan Lake Diversified Products Novice Lakers”
The team includes coaches Jody Junk, Derek Weimer, Rob Shaw and Dan Weik and players Jakob Weimer, Shona Willoughby, Paige Goyan, Seth Rosentreter, Tayler Weller, Hayden Cairney, Talon Brigley, Annalisa Trieber, Jaxon Junk, Aydden Shaw, Wristyn Ottenbreit, Brennan Stene, Landyn Sigfusson, James Moorhouse and Avery Weik.
To read about the other teams and their community involvement visit www.FordDrillsAndSkills.ca.
“Many minor hockey players, and their parents who support them, are passionate about their favourite professional hockey teams,” said a news release about the award.
“The Drills & Skills program takes Ford’s partnership with the Edmonton Oilers Hockey Club ‘outside the bowl’ and into the community.”