[Monthly Recap - December] Burnaby Wildcats Novice

Burnaby Wildcats Novice - Sponsored by the Dodge Caravan Kids Program

Division: Novice
Manager: Joanne Lee
Games Played: 8 GP (4 of which were part of the Angels on Ice Tournament in Langley)
Results: 5 Wins - 3 Losses

December was a festive month for the Burnaby Wildcats Novice team. Christmas celebrations were in full swing as players and their families gathered at Revs Bowling in Burnaby to commemorate the holiday season and the end to another successful year of hockey. Players tried their hands at a sport other than hockey as everyone enjoyed the friendly competition of bowling.

The off-ice festivities were soon replaced by on-ice fun as the Novice team opted to participate in the Angels on Ice tournament, which ran from December 27th to 30th in Langley. It was a testament to the dedication of the players, coaches, and parents, that everyone was willing to give of their time during the holidays to enter a hockey tournament. The team was rewarded for their dedication, as the tournament ended up being a real highlight for everyone. It was the first time that many of the girls had ever played in a hockey tournament during the Christmas season. The best part about tournaments is that there is always a lot of free time between games. The Wildcats took full advantage of this free time as they spent it bonding with their team mates, relaxing, and joking around. They even managed to enjoy another Christmas party in the form of a team lunch, which was held between two games on the same day at the tournament. The team continues to improve in every aspect of the game, as is proven by their solid December record.

One thing a player is never short on when they finish their minor hockey careers is hardware of all kinds. Medals, ribbons, trophies, and plaques are a great way to chronicle a player's accomplishments in minor hockey, and the Angels on Ice tournament started off the collection for many of the players. For some of the players, especially the tykes (ages 5 and 6), these marked their first ever commemorative medals. It was no doubt an exciting experience for them and one that they will always look back on with fond memories.

Each piece of hardware a hockey player wins comes with stories and memories of how that piece of hardware was earned. Whether it was for braving early mornings during the holidays to drive to faraway tournaments, or whether it was for winning Gold at the Olympics, the stories and experiences are what make it worth it.



~Jehan Jiwa