The hockey issue
For many young Leasiders, September marks the annual return to school. But, just as important, it also marks the start of the fall pilgrimage back to the hockey rink. As the Leaside Hockey Association gears up for the start of its 71st season, the continued success of this volunteer-run association would not be possible without the countless hours donated by so many who give so freely of their time.
This past June at the LHA annual general meeting, the association took time to recognize several outstanding individuals.
The Jeff Munn Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Brian Dooley. As the non-parent volunteer head coach with the Leaside 2009 AA team, Brian coached the team from their first year as Tykes to the end of their U14 season. The award is named in honour of Jeff Munn, who was instrumental in moving the LHA forward during the six years he spent on the board of directors.
The 2022-2023 George Turrell Spirit Award was presented to Eleanor Colledge. Eleanor acted at the team trainer for the 2005 Red Select team and the 2005 A team, and was “on the bench” from U8 to the end of U18 – a truly incredible commitment. The George Turrell Spirit Award honours the late George Turrell, a familiar face to many around the rink for over 50 years.
The GTHL’s Rob Silc Memorial Community Coaching Award this year went to long-time coach Tobin Davis. Given at a ceremony held at the Hockey Hall of Fame in June, this award annually recognizes a coach who exemplifies a long-term commitment to grassroots hockey, player involvement and community spirit. Tobin has coached at both the Select and GTHL levels for Leaside.
As the coming season starts up, there are several opportunities to join a learn-to-skate program, hockey school, house league, select or GTHL team. For additional information and contacts: leasidehockey.com.
Wildcats celebrate 50!
The Toronto Leaside Girls Hockey Association (TLGHA) is also looking forward the launch of the coming season – its 50th! A special kick-off celebration weekend is planned for September 30th to October 1st. From the early days as the Leaside Lancerettes and Blazerettes to the current-day Leaside Wildcats, the girls are ready to hit the ice. The TLGHA continues to be one of largest hockey associations for girls and women with over 1,600 members across all its programs from Learn to Play to Senior Competitive teams. For more info www.torontoleasidewildcats.ca.