Atom Chinooks host the Lethbridge Hurricanes

Chris Davis, Pincher Creek Voice

Hurricanes and Atom Chinooks
C. Davis photo

Pincher Creek's Atom Chinooks played host to the Lethbridge Hurricanes on Sunday evening, February 12.  The Enmax Energy-sponsored Pond Hockey event was an inspiration to our local athletes.

Enmax began the pond hockey program in 1999.  Since then more than 3700 kids from across Alberta have participated in the annual event.  This year more than 1000 young hockey players will get the chance to participate, with the added bonus of the extra revenue the events generates for local minor hockey associations.

Pincher Creek Atom Chinooks and Lethbridge Hurricanes
C. Davis photo

The red carpet was rolled out at the Memorial Community Centre Arena.  The event began with a rendition of 'Oh Canada' performed by Pee Wee Chinooks stars Haylie Klyen, Isabelle Charette, and Emily Wittkopf.

Haylie Klyen, Isabelle Charette, Emily  Wittkopf sing 'Oh Canada'
C. Davis photo

The Hurricanes and the Atoms split into two teams, discussed strategy, and got ready to play some hockey.

Shelley Crawford, mother of the late and well-loved Rick Rypien, performed the ceremonial puck-drop, assisted by husband Wayne Crawford.

Shelley Crawford drops the puck
C. Davis photo

Onlookers were treated to about an hour of fast-paced hockey.  The Atoms were clearly thrilled to play with hockey heroes, and the Hurricanes were pleasantly surprised by the quality of our local athletes.

Hurricanes and Chinooks play pond hockey at the MCC Arena
C. Davis photo

Several of them recalled wistfully their own early years in the sport, and the impressions events like this made on them when they were starting out.  Enmax representatives handed out free cowbells to all in attendance, so be forewarned that the next few hockey games here in Pincher Creek might be noisier than usual.

C. Davis photo

C. Davis photo

After the game and the obligatory photo-session, players and fans alike gathered in the arena lobby, where the Hurricanes signed autographs. A fundraising auction was held at the same time, with Fort Macleod Auction Market's Justin Keely doing the honours.  Todd Vance got the assist on that one.  The money raised goes towards the Pincher Creek Hockey Association.

C. Davis photo