Ninety-six games between 70 teams took place this weekend at the Lefroy hockey tournament in Innisfil. But there was one team in particular that received special recognition from Lefroy Minor Hockey President Sherri Keates: The Abbotsford Minor Hockey Hawks U18, that travelled all the way from B.C. to play.
"It is a normal occurrence for teams all across Ontario to attend one of Lefroy Minor Hockey's tournaments held in conjunction with Weekend Hockey Inc. It is a rare occasion however, for a team to travel all the way from British Columbia," said Keates.
Lefroy welcomed the Abbotsford Minor Hockey Association Hawks U18 team at their (Covid postponed) New Year's Puck Drop tournament which was held March 4-6, 2022.
"They are our first out of province team to attend a Lefroy tournament ever," said Keates.
Teams from Sudbury, Tilsonburg, Ottawa, Brantford, Sault St Marie and local Simcoe County York Region played as well.
"We are extremely pleased that our tournaments are now crossing provincial boundaries and are very excited for what the future holds for not only our tournaments but for the tourism opportunities for our town and surrounding areas! It's a very bright future!" Keates said.
As part of their visit, players, coaches and parents from B.C. took in a Toronto Raptors game in the city and did some sightseeing. Keates noted they were "extremely impressed" by the hospitality and warm welcome by everyone they met around town.
"They will be spreading the word about the wonderful time they had and recommending other teams to make the trip to future Lefroy Minor Hockey tournaments," said Keates.
