Jon Smith has developed a winning formula for the Fuller Lake Men’s Memorial Hockey Tournament.
There were winners all-around and not just on the scoreboard. The tournament supported two local families under its men’s mental health focus and also raised money for two charities.
The high-level action on the ice Friday through Sunday was one thing, but the camaraderie among the players on the 10 participating teams was superb. They even enjoyed predominantly sunshine outside the rink over the weekend, creating almost a tailgate party atmosphere surrounding the tournament inside.
“It was really good, nothing but positive feedback,” said Smith. “It was a great time had by all.”
Following a series of preliminary games, it all came down to the finals Sunday afternoon and early evening.
The Michael Roberts Memorial B final was up first and it was a hard-fought game from start to finish, with the Icehogs prevailing over a young Saints team 3-1.
Captain Adam Lundstrom accepted the Stanley Cup replica trophy from Rick and Allan Roberts on behalf of the family after the game.
The Colby Marshall Memorial A final was another great game and the Lake Cowichan Bombers wound up taking the title with a 5-2 win against the Whalers.
Bandits, Bozos, defending champion Lightning and Spurs were the other Marshall Division entries. The Roberts Division was added for the first time and also included the Bears and Hornets.
Smith estimates the proceeds from the beer garden and raffle prize draws will be around $4,000, “which we’re so happy with for our first year,” he said.
The proceeds will be split between the Rick Rypien Foundation and the Ladysmith branch of the Boys & Girls Club of Central Vancouver Island that doesn’t even know it’s getting money but will soon be confronted with a nice surprise.
“I’m just really appreciative of all the volunteers and sponsors,” summed up Smith.
The volunteers who pitched in to make the tournament such a success included: Jenelle Smith, Michelle Cassidy, Wallis Edwards, Shelby Edwards, Marina Hammocks, Kelsea Ross and Bailey McCloy.
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don.bodger@chemainusvalleycourier.ca
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