SportsXpress London Sept/Oct 2016

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LondonSportsXpress @SportsXpressLON

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Bowling................................................... pg 4 Rowing.................................................... pg 5 Boler Mountain....................................... pg 6 Running............................................. pgs 7-8 Baseball............................................pgs 9-12 Basketball........................................pgs 10-11 Training........................................... pgs 13-14 Soccer.............................................pgs 15-22 Scholarship........................................... pg 23 Events................................................... pg 23 Accessible sports........................... pgs 24-25 Dance.................................................... pg 26 Volleyball....................................... pgs 28-30 Contests................................................ pg 29 Lacrosse..........................................pgs 31-33 Football.......................................... pgs 33-34 Karate................................................... pg 35 Cheerleading................................. pgs 36-37 Gymnastics........................................... pg 38 Golf.................................................pgs 41-44 Aquatics......................................... pgs 45-48 Raquet sports.................................pgs 50-51 Hockey............................................pgs 53-61 Climbing............................................... pg 62

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Bowling is back! Submitted by Bowlerama

Like any sport, the right equipment is an important part of bowling. Fortunately, Bowlerama is stocked with all of your equipment needs

Bowling Season is upon us, and just like the start of school, parents, youth and seniors will be searching for new bags, shoes, bowling balls and accessoSitzes, Dawson Sears, Dylan Scott, Jacob ries for the season ahead. Davies, Sydney Fargnoli, and Zander Your own bowling ball is the most Ballantine all were exceptional students, important tool in your arsenal. As you can imagine, when putting your hand into learning advanced lane reading techniques, and more importantly to work a bowling ball (6 lbs to 16 lbs) weekly, together as a team! throwing one to two balls per frame for three games, it is extremely important BOWLING NIGHT IN CANADA! that the ball fit your hand perfectly. Our Have fun on Sundays this season and IBPSIA Certified Professional ball driller win BIG! Initiated in Toronto three years ensures the correct size holes, pitches ago, this phenomenon is spreading. and span from fingers to thumb to make Pay for just one hour on the lanes any sure launching your bowling ball up to time on a Sunday, and get your pass60 times an outing will leave you feeling port stamped and drop your ballot into relaxed and confident. Just like shoes, the ballot box. This year you could win children will outgrow their span, and so a trip to Australia! Previous years trips it is important to ensure regularly and at were awarded for closer to home, like the start of each season that spans are Vancouver, Chicago, and Paris, France. corrected. www.bowleramaroyale.com Professional Pro Shop operators will also be checking for how you throw your ball to ensure a suggestion of the right cover stock, core and hooking potential for your game. Colour combos and scents are available to today’s 10 pin bowler. Yes, even scents – like Blueberry Muffin, Grape and Cinnamon Streussel. The next most important tool in your bag is the perfect pair of shoes for The first year Bowling Camp grads: Back row (left to right): Zander Ballantine, Jacob Dayour competition level. Just vies, Cole Sitzes, Dylan Scott, Dawson Sears. Front row: Brooke Sears, Sydney Fargnoli like a great pair of skates can give a figure skater the edge, shoes with interchangeable soles and heels can provide the right amount of slide to ensure consistency of your game in local centres to international houses. Comfort creates Consistency. Consistency creates Success! Congratulations to our first year Bowling Camp Grads! Brooke Sears, Cole Bowlerama at the Boys and Girls Club

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Sports Connection

London and Area

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Check out our website at LondonSportsXpress.ca PUBLISHER: Greg Matthison, GregM@SportsXpress.ca, 519 619 6029

Greg Matthison and family: Sam, Jack & Kate EDITOR WEB GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Todd Devlin Jim Taylor Britt Cobean

CONTRIBUTORS

Richelle Hirlehey, Tracy Comer, Pam Bialik, Dr. Natascha Wesch, Mitch Lupa, Todd Smith, Bruce Huff, Bill Smith, Nicole Davey Makris, Jeremy Jeanson, Runners’ Choice, Preferred Insurance, The Little Gym of London, London Lightning, Mountain Equipment Co-op, EBBA, SPIKES St. Thomas, Bowlerama, St. Thomas Soccer, Connect Sports London, BodyWorx, Boler Mountain, United FC, Eurostar Football Academy, London Majors, Junction Climbing Centre, George Bray Sports Association, London Wheelchair Basketball Association, London Blizzard Sledge Hockey Club, London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby Club, REV3K, London Nationals, LDBA Baseball, Forest City Diving Club, London Devilettes Hockey, NorWest Soccer, London Junior Mustangs, London Minor Football Association, London Sharks Volleyball, Sportmax Nutrition, Little Kickers London, FC LONDON, FC LONDON Mini Stars, London Silver Dolphins, Puckstoppers, London Junior Golf Development Centre, TLC Landscaping, London Minor Lacrosse Association, London Pickleball Club, Power Cheer Gym, Middlesex Swimming, OF COURTS, City of London Municipal Golf, CheerStrike, TGA Premier Junior Golf, Beachcomber Hot Tubs of London, Olympic Karate, Progressive Hockey Development, London Aquatic Club, Kellye Zambon, the SportsXpress Team and local sports enthusiasts.

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Mailing Address 50 Ottawa St. South, Unit 110, Kitchener, On, N2G 3S7 519–208–9302 or 1-877-588-8856 Editorial Contributions: Submissions are welcome from writers, photographers, athletes, coaches and individuals. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. Contributors are responsible for obtaining all approvals for the publication of photos and content prior to submission. All submissions may not be used. We may edit, publish, reproduce, distribute and archive submissions in any form or medium without any compensation. We are not responsible for lost or damaged submissions. Contents copyrighted. All rights reserved. Reproduction or transmission of any article, photograph or artwork in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher is prohibited. SportsXpress is published six times per year. For detailed circulation information, contact Sports Express Media Inc. Sports Express Media Inc. is committed to protecting your privacy as our customer. We may collect personal information only if it is required for the proper functioning of our business and only share this information with our business partners. The editors and contributors who write for Sports Express Media Inc. attempt to provide accurate and useful information and commentary. However, the editors, contributors and Sports Express Media Inc. cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of the information. We assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any readers based on the information provided.

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sportsfiles

Club reinvention at Fanshake Lake

Proudly supported by

By SportsXpress Team, contributions by Kellye Zambon

s Game On for Darts in London

London has been a hub for rowing an ongoing basis. for decades. Canada’s senior women’s In doing so, the Club offers a wide national team trains in the forest city, range of recreational and competitive sending athletes to the Olympics every programs to rowers of all ages and abilifour years, as well as world championties.old And the LRC, a non-profit organizat was once considered boys’ night at the ships and regattas all over the world. The tion, ensures safe and proper instruction ky pub has now become one of the the fastest London Rowing Club aims to keep for all who participate in the sport. With sport thriving in the city by encouraging, the exception of the summer coaches, wing sports across the country! promoting and developing the sport on the Club’s instructors (fall/winter/spring) around thetheprovince throughout the season, kids volunteers. In 2013, LRC was are for ages 16 and up, and the Club’s leagues are sprouting up everywhere are named ROWONTARIO Club of the Year. and non-competitive between the ages of 7Masters and competitive 18 are taking the London is leading the pack with one of the During the summer season, groups feature rowers aged 26 and up. storm! Rowingby Club provides The LRC participates in many regater the Londonsport ow R s s e ’s largest membership, the London District n it F e if L ff o 0 programs for a wide range of intertas throughout the season, including 10 $ SAVE tober 31, 2016. lid until Octhe Whether it’s a registered league just some ested rowers. It starts with a Bantam ly. the famed Henleyor Regatta, and athletes app ’s Dart League. It’s *Vaalso longest running y ma ns me restrictio for the deal! So n po cou s thi program for kids aged 12 to 16. Learn from the Club regularly make it to finals *Must mention friends meeting in the garage once a week, league in North America dating back to to Row programs, 297 Adelaide Street South as well as the ‘Taste of the regattas in which they compete. London Ontario N5Z 3K7 sales@playwithsanders.ca of rowing’darts is the new gameUnfortunately, night! It’sit’scheap, to and recreational offerings been a biteasy of a trying 6. The London Ladies Dart League isn’t PlaywithSanders.ca time for London Rowing Club recently learn and most of all, since fun!the For more information ehind, with hundreds of league members Springbank Dam broke. As a result, the Club been rowing full-time - drop by Sanders Recreation & has Fitness. ering every week to try their best at the at Fanshawe Lake. For now, the goal is to eye. re-build the at that location. Whether you’re a beginner or Club a pro, get great Each spring the LRC holds an open throwing tips from thehouse experts and findcan allcome of the the fastest growing dart group appears to where Londoners visit the Club, see the boats, and try out equipment you need to make your game the the ids! Dozens of youth meet every Saturday rowing machine and the indoor tank best it can be at Sanders! which simulates rowing on the water. If t the boards including a national champ, you’re interested in getting involved in here from London! With tournaments held Check us out on-line rowing, at playwithsanders.ca today. the open house would be the place to go. Or you can visit the Club online at www.londonrowingclub.on.ca.

www.londonrowingclub.on.ca

The Bantam program (ages 12 to 16)Color(s): at the London Job #: 34416-60 4C Rowing Club has a maximum membership of 20 kids and is coached by two or Size: 7.375" x 3.125" Bleed?: Y three instructors Branch: 343 London Pub: Sports Xpress Mag

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sportsfiles

Winter fun on the slopes Submitted by Boler Mountain

Boler Mountain has a large selection of new and used skis, snowboards, boots and poles

It seems crazy to be thinking of cold weather and snow during yet another summer heat wave (at the time of this writing), but the staff at Boler Mountain have been busy planning for the upcoming winter season. Some people may not want to hear this, but … It’s time to start thinking about snow! Here are some ideas to get your family ready for a fun and exciting winter on the slopes at Boler Mountain:

is a large selection of new and used skis, snowboards, boots and poles. If you are interested in selling your equipment, bring it out to Boler Mountain! The cost is $2 per item and 15% of the sale price. Equipment Drop Off: Friday, October 21, 6:30pm-9pm and Saturday, October 22, 10am-4pm. Ski & Snowboard Swap: Sunday, October 23, 8am-3pm. Entry tickets are passed out at 7am.

Equipment:

Season Passes/Lift Tickets:

Make sure to try on your equipment from last year. With growing children, they often need to be fitted with new equipment every year or two. Maybe you are looking to upgrade your equipment. Boler Mountain hosts its annual Ski & Snowboard Swap in October and it is the largest equipment sale in London. If you are looking to purchase equipment, there

If you are interested in a fun family activity for the winter, consider buying a season pass. A winter season pass gives you unlimited skiing or snowboarding with your family any day that the mountain is open. Skip the ticket line and head right to the lifts. Season Passes are offered at early bird rates until Sunday, October 23, 2016. So make sure you purchase early!

If a season pass isn’t what you’re looking for, consider a ticket booklet of lift passes. Boler has updated its ticket booklets for the 2016-2017 season, and they can now be purchased in packages of 6, 12 or 25 lift tickets. They are good for anyone to use and are valid for 6 hours on the hill.

Lessons: Are you interested in learning how to ski or snowboard for the first time or improve on the skills you learned last winter? Boler Mountain has ski and snowboard lessons to fit with your family’s schedule. They offer 8 weeks of group lessons for children and adults of all ages. The lessons are for any ability and they will help to improve your skills on the hill. Private lessons are offered any time and day of the week. Holiday camps are also scheduled for December, January and March. Boler Mountain is excited to see you and your family out on the slopes this winter!

www.bolermountain.com Boler Mountain, 689 Griffith St. London: 519-657-8822

UPCOMING EVENTS & DATES: Disco Inferno: Dinner & Silent Auction at Boler: Saturday, October 1, 2016 Ski & Snowboard Swap: Sunday, October 23, 8am-3pm (see website for more details) Boler offers eight weeks of group ski and snowboard lessons to fit your schedule. Private lessons are also available at any time.

A winter season pass at Boler Mountain gives you unlimited skiing or snowboarding with your family any day the mountain is open!

Early Bird Season Pass Deadline: Sunday, October 23, 2016

FOR AN IN-HOME DESIGN CONSULTATION CALL 519 661 - 6895 A winter season pass at Boler Mountain gives you unlimited skiing or snowboarding with your family any day the mountain is open!

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sportsfiles

Race with MEC Submitted by Mountain Equipment Co-op Join MEC London for the annual Gibbons Park race! On October 22, take part in the 5K/10K/15K Road, or the 5K/10K/Half Marathon Trail. For only $15, registration includes: • Post-race massages (first come, first serve). Provided by Fanshawe College massage students • Certified chip-timed race and posted results with Speed River Timing • Post-race freshly brewed coffee, bagels and spreads, bananas, NUUN, and CLIF Bars • Special in-store discounts (invitation included in pre-race email) • Aid stations along route • Medal for the top 3 Men’s and Women’s finishers in each distance Sign up early, as space is limited! Visit: events.mec.ca.

MEC.ca

MEC’s final race of the season will be held October 22 at Gibbons Park. Choose from 5K/10K/15K Road, or 5K/10K/Half Marathon Trail.

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sportsfiles

New date, same great race! Submitted by Runners’ Choice For the past 48 years, London’s Springbank Park has been host to the Springbank Road Races. This fall, the event is moving its date by a couple of weeks to October 2. This year will mark the 49th running of this historic event. The beginning years of Springbank International Road Races featured distances included a men’s 12 mile, a women’s 4.5 mile, and a high school 3 mile that covered the scenic roads of

Springbank Park. Over the years, race distances have evolved to a 10 and 20k and currently a 5k, half marathon (21.1k) and 2.1k family-friendly event. But some things have not changed over the history of the event: the beautiful location, a great level of competition, and amazing community support. Springbank Road Races have seen some of the greatest runners in the world grace the roads and paths over the years.

Its International days in the seventies saw such runners as Bill Rogers, Frank Shorter, Ron Hill, Miruts Yifter, Abby Hoffman, Jerome Drayton, Francie Larrieu, Alberto Salazar and many more race in Springbank Park. More recently the event has become a showcase of National and regional talent as they make their way to the international stage, such as Lanni Marchant and Leslie Sexton. We are looking forward to the next two years as we approach the 50th Anniversary of this great event. The move to early October will allow for better preparation for the runners over the summer months and cooler weather to make for ideal race conditions. Come join this historic event in our very own Springbank Park by either participating, volunteering, or simply coming out to cheer on and see some of the best runners in the country. Visit www.londonroadraces.ca.

www.runnerschoice.ca

The start of the 12 miler at the Springbank International Road Race in 1974

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16-08-25 12:15 AM


SEAN REFFLINGHAUS Position: Catcher Birthday: 5/26/94 Hometown: London, ON Country: Canada Bats: Right Throws: Right Height: 6' 1" Weight: 215 lbs College: Fanshawe College

London Majors 2016 IBL Pennant Champions Championship photo and player profiles Submitted by the London Majors and photos by Wayne Brown, Browns Photos

OSCAR PEREZ Position: Pitcher Birthday: 11/9/91 Hometown: Caracas Country: Venezuela Bats: Right Throws: Right Height: 6'1" Weight: 210 lbs College: Venezuela

TODD LEAVITT Position: Pitcher Birthday: 1/23/92 Hometown: Vernon, BC Country: Canada Bats: Right Throws: Right Height: 6' College: Mayville State University

TRISTAN BUNTROCK Position: OF Birthday: 11/28/96 Hometown: Sarnia, ON Country: Canada Bats: Right Throws: Right Height: 5'10" Weight: 145 lbs College: Fanshawe College

KYLE GORMANDY Position: 1B/Pitcher Birthday: 4/24/95 Hometown: London,ON Country: Canada Bats: Left Throws: Left Height: 6'1" Weigh: 190 lbs College: Fanshawe College

KEITH KANDEL Position: SS Hometown: Fresno, California Country: USA Bats: Right Throws: Right Height: 5'8" Weight: 165 lbs College: Becker College (Leicester, MA)

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sportsfiles

National Fever in the Forest City Submitted by LDBA Baseball At the time of this writing, 10 teams were set to converge on the Forest City to vie for a chance to win Canadian Gold at the 13U National Championship, August 25-29. The London Badgers were the host team for the Championship, which also featured three teams from Québec, two more Ontario teams and a provincial representative from BC, Nova Scotia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. It was the second time in three years that this Championship has been hosted in London. In total, more than 230 athletes, coaches and umpires converged on the city for the event.

All games were held at Stronach Park in London’s north end. The Badgers were looking to repeat their two-time medal performance at the 13U Championship. “We are very proud of the effort that all our teams put forth on the field throughout the year, but at this time of year it’s really something special to be able to watch these kids come out, play the sport that they love, and do it all for a chance to win a National Championship,” said Justin Snively, LDBA Vice President. “We wish the Badgers the best of luck and welcome all the teams from around Canada to our great city!”

Royals going for Gold

Team Ontario celebrates National Gold at the 2014 13U National Championship in London.

The Badgers weren’t the only local team to compete for a National Championship; the Strathroy Royals team also played for gold at the Senior Men’s National Championship in Fredericton, NB, August 25-29. While the Badgers earned their entry into the National tournament as a host, the Royals had a much more difficult road to earn their shot at national glory. “There are a lot of good

Also includes Aylmer, Delaware-Komoka-Mt Brydges, Dorchester, Exeter, Lucan-Ilderton, Ingersoll, Mitchell, Sarnia, Strathroy, Tillsonburg, and Wyoming

teams in Ontario, and it takes a consistent level of play in the [Eliminations] to be representatives at Nationals,” Royals Manager, Derek Bloomfield, said prior to the tournament. “It takes a lot of hard work for a team to be there at the end of the tournament, and there are a lot of good teams that don’t make it to Nationals.” The Royals earned their berth to the Canadian Championship through a second place finish at the Ontario Senior Elimination Tournament in Windsor earlier in August. “The Nationals will be a tough test,” Bloomfield said prior to the tournament. “This is our second time going in four years, and I think that says something about our team and the effort our guys put in to get to Fredericton. I think with this being our second time in a short period, we won’t have that feeling out process. It will be a tough competition, but we will give it our all. Anything short of a medal would be disheartening.” Check out baseball.ca for the full results of both National Championships.

www.ldbabaseball.ca

Season Six in sight Submitted by the London Lightning The 2016-2017 London Lightning basketball season is fast approaching and the team has promised that season number six will be bigger and better than ever. After a heartbreaking loss in game seven of the NBLC Finals last year, the Lightning is hard at work on the court, preparing to win its third championship title. The organization has protected the following players for the 2016/2017 season: Akeem Scott, Stephen Maxwell, Ryan Anderson, Marcus Capers, Ed Horton and Warren Ward.

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The London Lightning is excited to welcome the Season Ticket MVP Membership program. With this program, Season Ticket MVP Members receive a number of benefits in addition to their season long tickets, including discounts on merchandise and Lightning basketball camps, as well as access to exclusive events. MVP

Members will also receive four complimentary tickets to the regular season game of their choice – a great perk for friends, family members or organizations in the community.

LondonSportsXpress

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sportsfiles

All-stars competition Submitted by EBBA Eager Beaver Baseball Association (EBBA) proudly hosted its annual all-star competition at Labatt Park on July 16. Held in honour of Frank Colman, one of EBBA's founders, players aged 6 to 18 gathered to showcase their skills to friends and family. Over 120 T-Ball players led off the event with games on the regulation size diamond and at skill challenging stations in the outfield. Medallions, freezies and smiles were taken home by all T-Ball

Combined Midget All-Stars

participants. London mayor Matt Brown threw out the first pitch for the next game, which showcased players from all six EBBA Rookie teams. Players were chosen by their teammates to represent their team in a classic 'National' versus 'American' game. Ed Berryhill, nephew of another of EBBA's founders, Gordon Berryhill, threw out the first pitch in the Mosquito game. All-stars from EBBA's five Mosquito teams faced off against a team of all-stars from South London, Thamesford and Dorchester. “Hearing the excitement in the voices of the coaches when I ask them if they want to participate in this event, and seeing the cooperation among the

EBBA Rookie All-Stars

different leagues and players, makes me sure that this would make Frank Colman proud,� said Kelly Terry, the EBBA volunteer who planned and organized the entire day. Next on the mound was Rowan Marlatt, the great-grandson of Frank Colman, to throw out the first pitch of the Peewee game. His grandfather, Frank Colman Jr., stood by his side and beamed with pride at the mix of uniforms from different leagues that comprised the Peewee teams. The mix of players and leagues continued with the Bantam game. As the Midget game closed the night, it was evident that the tradition of neighbourhood baseball play continues to be strong in London. EBBA is a house league program for players aged 4 to 22. Registration begins in January and players take the field starting in May. www.ebba.ca

Combined Mosquito All-Stars

Becoming a Season Ticket MVP Member with the London Lightning means more than simply being able to attend action-packed games at Budweiser Gardens. Being a Member means becoming a partner with the Lightning. It means you are helping to grow community endeavours and allowing important local charitable organizations to increase their awareness. Lightning Basketball is about creating community pride. For more information on Season Ticket MVP Memberships, and for the full game schedule, visit the London Lightning website:

www.lightningbasketball.ca

Akeem Scott, Stephen Maxwell, Ryan Anderson, Marcus Capers, Ed Horton and Warren Ward are protected players and should be back this season

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sportsfiles

Proudly Sponsored by

WMBA Hitting a home run By SportsXpress Team, contributions by Jeremy Jeanson Interest in baseball is taking off in Woodstock, Ontario, and the results – on and off the field – are showing. This season, nearly 570 youngsters played within the Woodstock Minor Baseball Association (WMBA), which featured 35 house league teams for kids aged 3 to 18 (400+ players and 70 coaches) and 11 travel teams for kids aged 6 to 18 (150+ players and 44 coaches). And, of course, there have been countless volunteers. Woodstock teams won two provincial titles last year, and had another team finish second at OBA’s. The WMBA

organizes six tournaments annually, including a house league tourney, two provincial events, two Intercounty League Championships and a Provincial Play-down, and the Association of course holds several year-end banquets where awards are handed out. “We’re building a successful program here in Woodstock, and we’re continuing to grow year after year,” said WMBA President Jeremy Jeanson. “We have an executive board with 12 members who put in countless hours of volunteer time to make the organization run well, and

2015 Ontario Baseball Provincial Champions - Minor Bantam B Division: Front Row (left to right): Jayden Purdy, Matt Houle, Hayden Gear, Alex Tomlinson, Adam Duwyn, Jordan Kelner, Connor Stefan. Back Row: Head Coach Mike Houle, Ass. Coach Dan McLorn, Kyle Brezinski, Craig Kaufman, Colton Ebel, Tyler Kean, Ass. Coach Jeff Ebel

we’re always looking for people interested in helping build this sport for our community.” The WMBA holds two ‘Rally Cap’ sessions per summer, which help enhance the first experience with the game of baseball for players and coaches. The program teaches the five FUNdamentals of the game, and players perform different tasks in order to earn a coloured Baseball Canada Rally Cap. The ‘Home Run Project,’ meanwhile, which was launched four years ago, continues to improve the experience for Woodstock players and families. “It has been the driving force for the betterment of the game in Woodstock,” Jeanson said. “The Home Run Project is focused on developing players, coaches and umpires and providing a safe environment in which players can learn and participate in the sport of baseball.” Both programs, as well as indoor winter workouts at Cowan Park are proving to be a success in the area of player development, as the WMBA entered more competitive travel teams into the Inter County Baseball Association (ICBA) in 2016 than in any other year.

woodstockminorbaseball.com

Sportmax Nutrition merging with Supplement King Submitted by Sportmax Nutrition

As much as we love the location we’ve occupied for nearly 15 years, it simply isn’t large enough for our needs going forward. Therefore, we decided that our last official day of business was to be Saturday, August 13. The best way to describe what’s happening is that we are taking Sportmax Nutrition and moving it to a bigger location with a different name. Of course, we'll continue to make the best protein shakes in town. Value for money will be even better with the most competitive prices in the market and price matching where necessary to ensure the lowest prices. Variety will improve dramatically. We will be offering the most extensive choice of

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supplements in London, and will be stocking everyone's favourites in all flavours. The Supplement King loyalty program will also make your purchases even more rewarding. Service will remain as great as ever, with extended opening hours and expert friendly staff on hand to advise on the most suitable product for your particular needs. Stay up to date on social media by liking our SK Facebook page (Facebook.com/ SupplementKingON) or following us on Instagram (Instagram.com/SuppKingON). Look out for more information there, including a grand opening invitation, getting you HUGE in-store door crasher deals on opening day! Get ready for London's

biggest and best supplement store. It will truly be London's Kevin DeLuca of Sportmax Nutrition only Supplement is excited to transition to a new location and new name. Stay tuned Superstore! for info on the grand opening of If you have any Supplement King, a true ‘Supplement Superstore’ questions, don't hesitate to stop in and ask. We look forward to serving you and seeing you at the grand opening of the new Supplement King with very attractive offers across all products in the store.

www.sportmaxnutrition.com

LondonSportsXpress

16-08-25 12:15 AM


sportsfiles

BodyWorx built on strong foundation Submitted by BodyWorx BodyWorx is one of the longest running Personal Training and Athletic Coaching facilities in London. Tania Admans is the owner, trainer and coach, and she is joined by a team of qualified staff bringing over 25 years of combined training and coaching experience to local athletes.

Team and Youth Training Program Our Commitment: Each athlete has a different set of strengths and weaknesses, so we challenge, correct and modify on an individual basis to get maximum results. We stay focused on injury prevention and seasonal competition demands in our workout design. Our programs are built on modern techniques and drills to strengthen injury-prone areas.

Custom

flexibility to bring the training to you or train you in our facility. We offer on-site training on your field, in your school or gymnasium. Conversely, you can train in our fully-equipped fitness centre located on Talbot Street, in the downtown core. Program includes: • Program Design, customized to sport • Initial Assessment to measure each athlete in areas of fitness, strength and flexibility • Program Tutorial, to learn proper form and all exercises • Continual Feedback, to address next steps for improvement • Ongoing Communication and connection. Coach Tania is available through digital communication for extra instruction, refreshers and questions.

Blue Devils Lacrosse U13 Boys AA Competitive Team Forest City Volleyball Club 15U Girls Competitive - two teams 16U Green Girls Competitive Team German Canadian Football Club Competitive Soccer U8-U14 L3-L5 Girls and BoysPremier Women’s teams Kitchener Waterloo Predators Volleyball 18U Boys Competitive Team London Football Academy U8-U14 Girls/Boys Academy Level London Majors Baseball Semi-pro minor league baseball team London Mariners Baseball U16 Competitive AAA Team London Sharks Volleyball Club U12-U14 Girls/Boys Competitive Teams Oxford Crush Volleyball 18U Girls Competitive Team

www.bodyworxtraining.com

All of our programs are custom-designed to age, ability and sport.

REGISTRATION OPEN YEAR ROUND Contact: BodyWorx Fitness Centre and Personal Training 519-858-BODY tania@bodyworxtraining.com www.bodyworxtraining.com

Fun and Fitness Increasing speed, strength, agility and endurance, while focusing on proper technique, injury prevention and fun, brings athletes to a new level of fitness.

Flexibility We pride ourselves on our

TEAM TRAINING EXPERIENCE:

BodyWorx trains several teams in London and area, including volleyball, baseball, soccer and lacrosse teams

Talbot Centre – 142 Fullarton Street, Unit 200, London, Ontario 519-663-0111 (Memberships) Free on-street parking after 6pm on weekdays and on weekends

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428 Richmond St London, Ontario

519.601.9099 richmonddiamonds.ca We’re your Diamond Experts @SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

Finding a new normal

UPCOMING EVENTS (DETAILS IN ARTICLE)

Submitted by REV3K It’s a journey like no other. Rev3k’s Biggest Loser is an intense 12-week program that puts people on the right path to total body fitness. And the results have been impressive, with participants seeing 20 to 30 percent loss of body weight over the course of the program. Over 17 seasons, Rev3k has fine-tuned and perfected a program that they deem is guaranteed to produce success. The focus is on sustainability and endurance. That’s why Rev3k coaches teach clients all there is to know about exercise, nutrition and emotional eating.

Rev3k’s Biggest Loser slogan says it all: “Our passion is to change your life beyond anything you ever thought possible.” To do that, clients take part in a rigorous workout plan while eating a nutritionist-designed diet that leaves them satiated while still dropping pounds and inches. Participants have unlimited gym and class access, and get a weekly check-in and 1-on-1 coaching. Season 18 starts in September. Call to ask about joining this season or future seasons.

Sept 9 - Jordan's Run Sept 11 - Biggest Loser Oct 5 - Revolution Oct 15 - REVKids

Upcoming Events Exciting things are always happening at Rev3k. This fall, besides the start of Season number 18 of the Biggest Loser (Sept. 11), the Rev3k community is taking part in Jordan’s Run the Runway (Sept. 9), a 5K run/walk (and kids run) in support of the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign. October 5 marks the beginning of a new REVolution, a 6-week revolutionized and customized program that is truly for anyone with any sort of workout or fitness goal (REVolution also includes 1-on-1 coaching, a full meal plan, weekly check-ins and team motivation). And on Oct. 15, a new REVKids program will start. It’s an 8-week program for kids focused on learning how to move and having fun while doing it!

www.rev3k.com

The results are undeniable. Rev3k knows how to whip people into shape and put them on the path to total body fitness.

BEST. GIFT. EVER! Road Trips from London and Area to watch Pro Sports Sept 11 Sept 24 Sept 28 Oct 9 Oct 16 Oct 29 Oct 30 Nov 24 Nov 26

Boston Red Sox at Toronto Blue Jays - SOLD OUT New York Yankees at Toronto Blue Jays - SOLD OUT Baltimore Orioles at Toronto Blue Jays - IDUSTRY NIGHT Philadelphia Eagles at Detroit Lions - $249 Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions - $249 Detroit Red Wings at Boston Bruins - $169 New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills - $299 Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions - $249 Detroit Red Wings at Montreal Canadiens - $169

Dec 11 Dec 11 Jan 1 Jan 14 Jan 25 Apr 1 Apr 8

Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills - $299 Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions - $249 Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions - $249 Pittsburgh Penguins at Detroit Red Wings - $169 Toronto Maple Leafs at Detroit Red Wings - $169 Toronto Maple Leafs at Detroit Red Wings - $169 Montreal Canadiens at Detroit Red Wings - $169

Includes game ticket, transportation and more. NFL includes all you can eat/drink tailgate party. Group rates for 10+ people. Hst to be added (13% for Canadian games and partial 4% for US games). Additional road trips may be available.

Book Now! Space may be limited and prices may be subject to change.

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LondonSportsXpress

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sportsfiles

Change of seasons for Byron soccer By Nicole Davey Makris, President, Byron Optimist Soccer With the end of the Outdoor 2016 Season fast approaching, Byron Soccer would like to thank all of its partners and sponsors for their support during this past season! Our first year with Global Premier Soccer has been a tremendous success! With GPS, Byron Soccer now has the highest certified coaching staff overseeing our training programs, including our Under 4 to Under 8 programs. For 10 weeks, our Under 4 to Under 8 players completed an academy training program using station-based training, and the positive reception of our GPS coaches was unprecedented. We look forward to expanding our partnership with GPS and expand ing Winter Indoor Programs. Information

and Registration will be posted online soon at www.byronsoccer.ca. We would also like to thank Adidas for their support. On August 4, 2016, some of our players were invited to train with Adidas and Teamworks, and they received some awesome swag! Fall Assessments and Winter Programs will be posted online in mid-August at www.byronsoccer.ca. And be sure to stop by for an exciting announcement in early Fall! Thank you to all Byron Soccer players,

coaches, parents and volunteers for a great 2016 Outdoor Season!

www.byronsoccer.ca

Sponsors

Byron Soccer players: Tori Slade, Alex Makris, Evan Makris, Kate Brulé, John Jackson.

Go West, young man By SportsXpress Team and photos by Cam Vassallo The Whitecaps London Youth Academy Centre has produced its first Vancouver Whitecaps FC prospect, as Ethan Gopaul, 17, recently earned a spot on the Major League Soccer (MLS) club’s under-18 residency team. In doing so, he became the first London area player to receive the honour. Gopaul, who departed for Vancouver in mid-August to train with the team’s

Local soccer standout Ethan Gopaul with Vancouver Whitecaps left-winger Kekuta Menneh

top prospects, first earned the chance to showcase his skills in front of Whitecaps FC brass last November after he was named London Youth Academy Player of the Month. That trip to Vancouver didn’t go as well as planned, but the teen worked hard upon returning to the Forest City and helped the London Youth Whitecaps win their first Ontario U-18 Indoor Cup. That earned him a second

Gopaul with Alan Alderson (head coach of Whitecaps London Youth Academy Centre) and MLS Vancouver Whitecaps coaches Gordon Forrester and Carl Robinson

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chance, and now Gopaul finds himself training and studying full-time in the Whitecaps’ residency program. “I’m really fortunate to have this opportunity,” Gopaul told the Londoner last month. “I want to make use of this opportunity, I don’t want to let it slip away. At the residency, I want to keep going up, I’m going to keep going to the next level, I’m not going to let this opportunity waste away.” The goal now for Gopaul is to continue to improve and earn a spot on the Whitecaps’ professional teams in the United Soccer League (USL) and MLS.

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Proudly sponsored by

2016 FC London Mini Stars Submitted by FC LONDON MINI STARS Thank you to our coaches, parents and to all 2016 FC LONDON MINI STARS! Below are some of the team photos from this summer. We are now taking indoor registrations. Inter Milan

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LondonSportsXpress

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Club thrilled with League1 debut Submitted by FC LONDON and photos by SGL24/7MEDIA and Mathew Balaban The budding relationship between FC LONDON soccer and League1 Ontario is off to a great start, and FC LONDON has risen to the challenge with its men’s and women’s teams both vying for league titles. Mike Marcoccia and Mario Despotovic (head coaches for the women’s and men’s team, respectively) have put their top squads on the field in a run for league championship honours. The men’s team specifically has been bolstered with an U21 team from which Despotovic regularly selects players to ‘play up’ on the League1 men’s squad. HOME SCHEDULE The women’s Men Sept 9 - 7:30pm - GCFC team has been Sept 14 - 8:00pm - GCFC led by league Oct 2 - 4:30pm - Location TBD leading scorer Oct 7 - 7:30pm - Location TBD Women Jade Kovacevic, Sept 17 - 7:30pm - GCFC a League1 allSept 25 - 1:00pm - Hellenic Field star. Kovacevic,

FC LONDON Women’s training session led by league-leading scorer Jade Kovacevic

defender Meagan Scott, and midfielder Julia Benati all represented FC LONDON on the Ontario team in the all-star game against Quebec, while Marcoccia received the coaching honours. Beyond leagueleading stats and scores, the team has served as a launching pad for college careers, as many players are now moving into their fall seasons in post-secondary schools throughout Canada and the United States. “It’s truly been a whirlwind of a season, and I think we’ve surprised a lot of people in the soccer world – not only here in London, but throughout the country,” said Marcoccia. “Our goal was to create opportunities for these young athletes while creating a positive atmosphere and good role models for young players. I think we’ve achieved our goal, and to do that in the first year is fantastic.” The success has been similar on the men’s side, with three players and head coach Despotovic all receiving all-star honours. Beyond midfielder Randy Ribeiro, goaltender Anthony Sokalski, and international defender Steven Al-Sayed, team-leading goal scorer Elvir Gigolaj was also selected.

FC LONDON Men’s League1 and U21 teams

“Our players all deserved to be there,” Despotovic said. “They represented FC LONDON well, and showed why we’re regarded as one of the top teams in the province.” League1 Ontario has been lauded for their attention to detail to create a consistent and professional atmosphere. London has taken the sentiment to the next level by adding a family entertainment component. “Hats off to Tatiana Stolf, who has managed our game-day operations this year,” said Ian Campbell, FC LONDON President. “There are a lot of moving parts to every game, including video, announcing, DJ, sponsors and special guests. Managing everything is a tough job, and we’re proud and thankful for the efforts of Tatiana and our volunteers. They do a great job.”

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sportsfiles

STSC 50th anniversary celebration Submitted by St. Thomas Soccer Club The St. Thomas Soccer Club was formed in 1966, and the organization was celebrated in St. Thomas on August 20 with a party that was 50 years in the making. Festivities began at Athletic Park in the morning and included bubble soccer and reunion games featuring players from the 1960s, 70s, 80s, 90s, all the way up to today's players. The celebration ended with a banquet at the St. Anne's Centre, which featured St. Thomas' favourite local historian Steve Peters talking about the history of the club within the community. It was a tremendous event enjoyed by all of the soccer community in St. Thomas. Everyone agreed that they couldn't wait for the 100th!

Photo by Iffat Farooqui STSC Council and players play Bubble Soccer at the 50th Anniversary. (left to right): Zuhayr Hasan, Steve Torok, Phil Trueman, Rob Cameron, Abbey Velestuk, Jason Rakowizc, Curtis Langley, Logan Cameron, Jack Velestuk, Robert Meth

www.stthomassoccer.com

Photo by STSC STSC Council with dignitaries Ron Smale (OSA President), John Dutot (EMSA President) and Steve Peters (Guest Speaker)

Photo by STSC Award recipients with 10 to 35+ years of service to the STSC.

Time to think indoor

October to April

By SportsXpress Team It may be hot outside, but this is a reminder that registration is underway for indoor soccer at the BMO Centre. The registration process and fees are unchanged from last year.

www.bmocentrelondon.com

INDOOR WINTER SCHEDULE

Skills & Drills • • • •

October to December Skills & Drills fall season for kids aged 2–12 Tuesdays from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m ages 6-12 Thursdays from 5 to 6 p.m ages 2-5

Monday Night – Men’s 2nd & 3rd Tuesday Night – Adult Co-ed Wednesday – Women’s 2nd & 3rd Thursday – Men's 1st, Womens: Masters, 1st, 101 Friday – Men’s Masters Saturday – Southwest Youth Co-ed, Women's 101 Sunday – Men's Premier, EMDSL, Women’s Premier, Women's Masters

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sportsfiles

Making the move indoors Submitted by Little Kickers London Little Kickers London is currently preparing to move its unique soccer program indoors into the comfortable confines of local gymnasiums for the fall/winter season. The inaugural outdoor season has been a tremendous success, but the temperatures are sure to drop in the not too distant future. At the time of this writing, two venues have been confirmed for the transition indoors. Saturday morning classes at Springbank Park will continue outdoors through September until the Thanksgiving weekend of October 8-10. Beginning October 15, Saturday morning classes will be held at Jean Vanier Catholic Elementary School (1019 Viscount Road). A venue has not been confirmed yet for the Sunday Little

‘Learning through play’ is the core premise of what Little Kickers is all about. After a tremendously successful first outdoor season, Little Kickers of London is set to move indoors for the fall/winter season

Kickers classes which are currently being held at Whetherfield Park. To meet demand, Little Kickers is excited to offer weekday classes on Tuesday evenings beginning on September 20 at St. Martin Catholic Elementary School (140 Duchess Avenue). The weekday classes will hopefully accommodate those unable to attend weekend classes. Little Kickers is the world's largest preschool soccer academy with a network of over 1,500 coaches in 16 different countries. Classes have

@SportsXpressLON

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been designed so that, in addition to receiving a sound basic instruction in soccer from qualified coaches, children are also provided with a fun, positive introduction to sport. Learning through play is the core premise of what Little Kickers is all about. If you are interested in signing up your little one into an excellent introductory soccer program, don’t hesitate to check out Little Kickers London. The ages of classes range from 18 months to 7 years old, and the quality of the coaching is second to none. To find out more, or to enroll, please visit the Little Kickers Website at www.littlekickers.ca or call the hotline at 226-980-8909.

www.littlekickers.ca

LondonSportsXpress.ca

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16-08-25 12:16 AM


sportsfiles

Volunteers make the game go round Submitted by NorWest Soccer A big thank you goes out to our House League and Competitive volunteers who returned once again to help deliver a fantastic season! Every year, parents and

coaches sacrifice a significant amount of their time (and energy) to bring the joy of soccer to their kids. These sacrifices are often not easy to make, but they are made to keep the love of the game going. The players and the club appreciate it, and we thank you for your commitment! At NorWest Soccer, we recognize the importance of putting players first. This

NorWest Soccer has adopted the Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) model, which seeks to make soccer more fun for youth and increase the likelihood that they’ll play the sport for years to come

means ensuring that every player has the best soccer experience possible to further develop their passion and interest in soccer. The unfortunate reality is that 70% of youth soccer players in Canada will quit by the age of 14. In recent years, NorWest Soccer has adopted the Long-Term Player Development (LTPD) program to try and reduce this trend in the London area. Long-Term Player Development focuses on guided development and game-realistic activities, aspects that are important in soccer skills development. The belief with LTPD is that players will learn more and have more fun, thus increasing the likelihood that they will continue playing the sport. The NorWest Indoor Skills Program for the Fall/Winter season will be returning in 2016-17! This Long Term Player Development-focused program is run by provincially and nationally certified coaches out of our own indoor facility in the Northwest part of London. Players aged U5-U12 can have fun while developing their soccer skills, with soccer-based activities and small-sided games. More information on this program will be available in the coming months on our website.

norwestsoccer @NorWestSoccerL www.norwestsoccer.com

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Proudly sponsored by

Newcomers making name on the pitch By SportsXpress Team, contributions by United FC and photo by Izaac Shimer-Whitehead United FC is the newest team in the London Ontario Soccer League's Premier Division. It’s a team that was built from players scouted by its owner/manager throughout the 2015 outdoor season, and through the winter at the BMO Sports Centre. The goals of the new United FC team include giving the players a soccer

experience to equal that of other competitive teams in higher clubs in the region, as well as to represent the local London community. And the inaugural year has proven to be a successful one for the team, which is proudly supported by Lexus of London, Swiss Chalet, Pro Home Contracting, Austin & Taylor, and In2Sports London. A recent highlight for the team – and for one particularly lucky youth player – was a charity game against Team 519 in support of prostate cancer research. Local youth player Esra Rahman, 12, participated in the game as part of soccer experience with United FC that she won in a silent United FC recently held a charity game where 12-year-old Esra Rahman (top, in Lexus) got to enjoy a ‘soccer experiauction at the Lexus ence’ with the team after winning a silent auction bid, all in support of prostate cancer research

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Gala night. Esra played with the United FC squad as her proud mother, Ebru Rahman, the auction winner, watched from the sidelines. The youngster got to keep the complete uniform and a soccer ball signed by the team. Next season the team is looking forward to participating in more local community activities and to represent the league and its sponsors in a positive way. All of United FC's players are passionate about the ‘beautiful game,’ and are already looking forward to next season. United FC players include: Scott Meuller, Ben Thomas, Scott Kernaghan, Claudio Rodrigues, Paul Karigan, Chris Yardley (Captain), Kyle Williams, Mike Pereira, Kashindi Francis, Shawn Uz, Chris Demelo, Romeo Nissan, Bryan Serrador, Mohammed Nabaveih, Scott Gagnon, Tarik Kalajdozic, Cameron Smith, Aid Karagic, Abdu Halbouni, Carlos Cohelo, and Taylor Haid.

LondonSportsXpress.ca

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sportsfiles

Lazio Camp a summer highlight Submitted by Eurostar Football Academy The midway point of the 2016 outdoor Eurostar season was July 30, and the year had already brought great excitement as well as some excellent results for our program. All of our teams finished the first half of the year with some very good performances. Our U17, U14 and U13 teams had particularly strong results and were trending well heading into the SAAC fall season, which started on August 1. Earlier in July, Eurostar played host to several coaches from the S.S. Lazio Academy, facilitating a one-week soccer camp at Fanshawe College. With over 120 participants, the coaches provided a fun, unique and challenging experience for all participants. Joining them this year was a FIFA agent from Italy who represented several Italian football academies and spent the week observing various players. Many of our players received feedback

for their skill on the field, and several will be monitored ongoing for future opportunities. Some additional mid-summer highlights from Eurostar … • Fifteen of our U16/17 players visited Niagara University in July to meet the Coach Bill Boyle and learn more about the school. Coach Boyle spent some time with the players to help them understand the scholarship recruitment process. • The Eurostar U13 team went undefeated as division champions at the Rush Kickoff Classic held in Michigan Aug 5-7.

Lazio coaches lead and facilitate training at the July camp at Fanshawe College: (Left to right): Coach Elliot Manson, Coach Paul Gatt, and Coach Matteo Bonavolonta demonstrate soccer technique to camp participants

• Four senior players were invited to an international academy in Spain through the month of August. While there, the players participated in training as well as a pair of international tournaments. Fall tryouts for the Eurostar program will begin in September. More information will be available on our website (www.eurostarsoccer.com). Or you can contact us at 1-800-742-3076.

www.eurostarsoccer.com

A Lazio Summer Camp was held July 18-22 at Fanshawe College. More than 120 players from across the region participated in a week of elite professional academy training

10 locations to serve you in Southwestern Ontario

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Kaitlin Ellery St. Thomas Soccer Kaitlin Ellery has been a member of the St. Thomas Soccer Club for over 10 years. Currently, she plays for the Scorpions (’00) L3 team, in addition to being a part-time player on the St. Thomas Women’s Premier team. A grade 11 student at Parkside Collegiate Institute in St. Thomas, Kaitlin has been a dynamic player for the Scorpions team throughout her competitive soccer career, leading her team in scoring each season. In addition, she also was a key scorer as the Premier team won the 2016 Cup Championship. At the high school level, Kaitlin was a leader on her Parkside team that won OFSAA gold in 2016. Kaitlin’s dedication to the soccer community extends outside of her playing capacity. When she is not on the field, she can be found mentoring youth soccer teams or helping to run skills stations at tournaments/ festivals. She is also a tremendous athlete outside of soccer, playing competitive hockey for the St. Thomas Panthers, and school field hockey, where she was invited to play in the Ontario Summer Games. Kaitlin truly epitomizes what it is to be a St. Thomas Soccer player.

Calendar of Events

To promote your event contact London@SportsXpress.ca

September 9-11 GOJHL Showcase Tournament, Western Fair Sports Centre

September 16-18 2016 NHL Rookie Tournament, Budweiser Gardens

September 24 Showdown in the Downtown, Aeolian Hall

September 10 MEC London Race Four: 5K, 10K, 15K Road & 6K/12K/ Half Marathon Trail, Fanshawe Conservation Area

September 16-17 Sr Boys Highschool Volleyball Tournament, Fanshawe College

September 24 October 7 Ontario Grand Nationals (Martial Arts), Western Fair Raceway Season Carling Heights Community Centre Opener, Western Fair Raceway

September 17 Fanshawe College Golf Invitational Tournament, Forest City National

September 25 Seize the Day 5K Run/2.5K Walk, Kiwanis Park North

September 17 Fanshawe College Cross Country Invitational Tournament, Fanshawe Conservation Area

September 25 Run the District Series: Women Run London, Western Fair District

September 10 Southwest Challenge - Cycling Tour, London Area September 12 May Court Club of London Inaugural Charity Golf Tournament, Forest City National

September 17-18 Air Show London, London International Airport

September 30- October 2 Fanshawe College Kick-Off Mens & Womens Volleyball Tournaments, Fanshawe College

September 18 Terry Fox Run, Springbank Gardens & UWO

October 1 Forest City Derby Girls, Western Fair District

September 19-24 The Nash Cup, London Squash Club

October 1 Hike for Hospice, Kilally Meadows

September 14-22 Learn to speed skate, Western Fair Sports Centre

September 20 United Way Football Games, TD Waterhouse Stadium

October 2 Big Bike Giveaway, Wortley Village

September 15-18 The Tour Championship of Canada, Highland Country Club

September 22-25 Drew Doughty Ronald McDonald House AAA Invitational, Western Fair Sports Centre

October 2 48th Annual Hardick Chiropractic Centre 1/2 Marathon & 5K Run and Kiddie Trot, Springbank Park

September 13 London Curling Club Open House, London Curling Club September 14 10th Annual Accessible/Modified Vehicles Show & BBQ, Parkwood Institute, Lot #1

September 16 Easter Seal Power Play - Road Hockey, Covent Garden Market

September 24 Xtreme Warrior Challenge, Fanshawe Conservation Area

October 2 Dallas Stars at Florida Panthers, Budweiser Gardens

November 4-6 London Junior Knights Green & White Tournament, Western Fair Sports Centre

October 7-9 Jr Knights AAA Wendy Dufton Memo- November 5 rial, Western Fair Sports Centre Forest City Derby Girls, Western Fair District October 14-15 Sr Girls High School Basketball Tournament, Fanshawe College October 14-16 Jr Knights AA Triple 20, Western Fair Sports Centre October 22 MEC London Race Five: 5K, 10K, 15K Road & 5K/10K Trail, Gibbons Park October 23 Annual Ski & Snowboard Swap, Boler Mountain October 29 London X-Ray Associates Halloween Haunting 10K & 5K Run & 3K Fun Run/Walk, Springbank Park October 29 Elgin Middlesex Chiefs Day, Komoka Arena November 3 United Way Stair Climb, One London Place

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November 3 London Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, Carousel Room

November 10-13 London Lynx Ringette Tournament, Western Fair Sports Centre November 18-20 Fanshawe College Badminton Invitational Tournament, Fanshawe College November 19 GNC London Championships, Centennial Hall December 3 Santa Shuffle Walk/Run, Western Fair December 5-7 The Lady Crusader Girls H.S. Hockey Classic, Various arenas December 15-17 The Crusader Cup Boys H.S. Hockey Classic, Various arenas

LondonSportsXpress.ca

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sportsfiles

Accessible Partners

Local Accessible Sports News George Bray Sports Association As the sun gets ready to set on another warm and wonderful summer, and the back-to-school sales start to emerge, the GBSA board gets ready to ‘drop the puck’ on its 48th hockey season -- known as the ‘fifth season’ to all those Canadians who love the game. All of us involved are so thankful to be a part of this “Hidden Gem” of a league. The GBSA was established in 1968, by George Bray, who started out with a big idea: to allow children and young adults with special needs to play hockey. In the beginning we had only a handful of players, and since then our objective has been – and continues to be – to grow the league. Last year we registered over 220 players and outfitted almost half of those players with our loaned equipment. GBSA has a no-cost equipment loaner program and a hockey school to help players sharpen their skills and/or im-

Submitted by George Bray Sports Association, London Blizzard Sledge Hockey Club , London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby Club and London Wheelchair Basketball Association,

prove their skating. Our registration fees The first pucks drop October 1 and 2, and continue to remain low (only $170 for all all games are played on weekends. divisions), thanks to the continued supFor more information about the George port of our dedicated sponsors. Bray Sports Association, check out our The GBSA board members, coaches website: www.georgebraysports.ca. And and on-ice skaters are all volunteers, ‘like’ us on Facebook! which also helps to keep our fees low. www.georgebraysports.ca They are among the most caring people you will find in sports. We know you’re out there ... Everybody knows somebody who can benefit from this league. Teachers, Educational Assistants, relatives, friends, and neighbours – we need your help to spread the word. Our registration dates for the 2016-2017 season, held at Glen Cairn arena (370 Chippendale Cres.) are September 17, 21, and 24. The GBSA is getting ready to drop the puck on its 48th hockey season in October

London Blizzard Sledge Hockey Club On January 28, 2005, the London Blizzard held its very first sledge hockey tournament with 28 teams competing in two divisions. This year marks the 12th annual tournament with 44 teams from across Canada and the United States participating. These teams range in skill levels and age, and play in six divisions. The tournament is held every year at the Western Fair District Sports Centre, where the London Blizzard also hosts home games on weekends and rigorous practices Wednesday nights. The London Blizzard has two teams playing in the tournament: one each in Intermediate B Junior Sledge Development (JSD). Last January, the Intermediates won Bronze in the “C” division, playing well against some tough competition. The JSD worked hard and placed fourth in their division of nine teams. This season, both teams have been working hard at practices and are hoping to improve their results at the tournament

January 22-24. The Sledge Development out to see the team or want to try out, team has played well in league action so practices are held Wednesday evenings far and has great hopes of an improved at 6:45 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Contact result in January. They have a balanced Todd Sargeant for more information: attack and the Intermediates had some toddsargeant@hotmail.com. players move up from the JSD team this www.londonblizzard.com season. James Dunn has been great at scoring and controlling the puck, and also made Sledge Team Ontario in September. Mackenzie Spong has played well so far, and her tenacious style helped her land a spot on the Canadian Women’s National team as their youngest member. Dylan Kett is also in his first season and brings a wealth of experience to the Blizzard. The London Blizzard is always open to having members of the community come out and try sledge hockey. If This year marks the 12th annual London Blizzard sledge hockey you are interested in coming tournament, and it will feature 44 teams from across Canada and the United States competing at the Western Fair District Sports Centre from Jan. 22-24.

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London Wheelchair Basketball Association London Wheelchair Basketball Association was proud to host the 33rd Annual Wheely Ballathon on August 6. The event, which is the LWBA’s largest annual fundraiser, took place at the Dorchester Flight Exec Centre in Dorchester, Ontario. The day was filled with teams from all over London and area – from companies and organizations, to family and friends. The teams come in to get a chance to try out wheelchair basketball and also to take on the Forest City Flyers in a one-hour game. When the event first began, there were up to 48 teams challenging the Flyers for

48 hours straight. The event has since become smaller, but the fundamentals of the day remain the same – fundraise, play basketball and have fun. The day is also a great opportunity for corporations to challenge each other and have a day of team-building and awareness. We have a proud history of both Adult and Jr. Programmes, and we encourage anyone with a lower extremity impairment to come out and try this amazing sport and push your limits. You will quickly discover that you have no limits. We would like to thank this summer’s teams for coming out and supporting

the LWBA: London Police Association, Debly Law of Windsor Ont., London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby Team, and the Ratsville Rats. We would also like to say thank to our volunteers who come out every year to help with scorekeeping, equipment maintenance, and various other duties. Without you, the LWBA would be lost. Feel free to ‘Like’ us on Facebook @ LondonWheelchairBasketball for more information or to stay informed of upcoming games, tournaments and fundraisers.

www.lwba.ca

Debly Law

London Annihilators

Ratsville Rats

London Police Association

London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby Club Another successful season has come and gone for the London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby Club! The Annihilators capped off the year with a gold medal at the Canadian National Championships for Team Ontario, where London athletes Cody Caldwell, David Willsie, Garret Hickling, and Ian Crowe led the charge. The game was a hard-fought battle against their longtime rivals BC. The gold medal represents the fifth in six years for Team Ontario. Cody Caldwell and David Willsie were also selected to the Canadian National team that is representing Canada at

the Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro this summer. Canada competes from Sept. 14-17, and the full game schedules can be found on the Canadian Wheelchair Sports website at: www.cwsa.ca.

Canada entered the competition as the #1 seed and is coming off a thrilling gold medal at the recent Para-PanAm Games in Toronto. Cheer on your London athletes as they go for another gold in Rio!

The London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby Club earned a gold medal at the Canadian National Championships, competing as Team Ontario at the event

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Off to the Ballet By Richelle Hirlehey for Dance Extreme Dance Extreme dancers have been busy dancing their summer away at Ballet schools across Canada. Six dancers from the studio were all accepted to participate in Ballet Summer Programs offered by some of the most prestigious ballet schools nationwide. Kanya Hern, Ewan Hartman and Makenzie Williams spent a month at The National Ballet of Canada, studying with teachers from around the world in ballet, contemporary and pointe. Paige Lavoie traveled west to attend the Royal Winnipeg School of Ballet for the month of July. Jacqueline attended the Quite Ballet School summer program, and Samantha Lake is spending the month of August at Ballet Jorgen’s Summer Program in Toronto. Said Hartman, 12, of his experience: “Having had the opportunity to attend Canada's National Ballet School summer program for the second time has benefited me by making me a stronger, and more knowledgeable and mature dancer. It's one of the most memorable experiences a dancer can have, as you meet people from all over the world (both teachers and students). When you learn from teachers from around the world, you get to learn and experience new ways to

Paige Lavoie, 13, at the Royal Winnipeg School of Ballet in July

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perform and improve your technique.” Twelve-yearold Makenzie Williams also attended the National Ballet of Canada this past July with Hartman and Hern. She Ewan Hartman, 12, at Canada’s National Ballet Makenzie Williams, 12, joined Hartman and Kanya Hern shared with School at the National Ballet School us how the “The days go by really fast, and each National School of ballet has helped her evening the chaperones take the girls out look at dance in a different way: “Even (sister-hood).” though ballet is a very technical form and Thirteen-year-old Paige Lavoie grande might get you a job, connecting to the jete’d across the prairies to attend audience by dancing with your heart will the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School in take you more places, by far!” Winnipeg, Manitoba. Her experience has Our dancers who venture off to imbeen second to none, and her acceptance merse themselves in intensives return to the school’s Professional Program is to work even harder in their studio work. a testament to her hard work and pasThey gain so much from working with sion for ballet. Lavoie shares: “When we other teachers and learn how to take dance, there is so much we have to think corrections from their teachers, how to about! But compared to other styles of advance their performance skills, and dance, ballet is very technical, so somehow to challenge themselves when taktimes we have to take a few steps back ing class at any level. and look at the basics and perfect them. Fifteen-year-old Samantha Lake, who The Royal Winnipeg Ballet helped me peris attending Ballet Jorgen’s Summer fect my skills, and now I'm moving on to Intensive, said that what she enjoys at the next stage of my journey in ballet, as Ballet Jorgen is “the amazing teachers I've been accepted into the Professional … they dance to live music.” (There is alDivision Program at RWB.” ways a pianist, and a person playing the In addition to these four dedicated guitar or drums) for each discipline (yoga, dancers, Kanya Hern was accepted to the Pilates, jazz, modern, hip hop, ballet and National School of Ballet, and Jacqueline pointe). At the end of the day, they finish Seman was accepted to the Quinte with a Repertoire, which Lake enjoys. School of Ballet and will be attending in the Fall. These experiences outside of the studios provide our dancers with opportunities of a lifetime, giving them a chance to meet other like-minded dancers from around the country and the world, and a place where they can pursue their passion for dance. We are very proud of all of our dancers’ accomplishments, and we encourage others to continue to try new dance programs during the summer months. Samantha Lake, 15, at Ballet Jorgen’s Summer Intensive

www.danceextreme.com

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Just be You! By Natascha Wesch, PhD Kurt Cobain said it best: “Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are.” This quote applies to life and to sports. Here’s how … So many young (and sometimes not-soyoung) athletes try hard to be someone they’re not. They try to play like someone else, which usually means getting away from their own game and style. This is not effective, and it often produces poor or panicked performance. I see this a lot in the work I do with athletes. Here’s a typical scenario: Joe says he’s been doing everything his coach wants him to, but he’s not seeing the results. He used to be able to put the puck in the net, and used to feel confident in his game. Lately, he hasn’t been playing well and is losing confidence. He says he’s trying really hard, but the harder he tries the worse things get. So, I ask Joe, “Tell me about your style, your game. What makes you the player you are? What are

your strengths as a player?” Joe thinks and says that his game is a physical one; he’s tough in the corners and creates plays for his line-mates. One of his biggest strengths, he says, is communication and being vocal on the ice. He has a quick start and tons of speed. Then I ask Joe if this is how he’s been playing lately. He replies: “No, I’ve really wanted to put the puck in the net because Coach B wants us to put points on the board, so I’ve kind of got away from playing my game.” That’s the problem – and the solution! When you get away from playing your game, and focus on trying to play in a way that doesn’t play to your strengths, you can’t perform. You’re trying to impersonate someone. When it comes to top performance, you have to allow your mind and body to do the things you’ve trained them to do. What got you to where you are today? What are your strengths as a player? Focus on doing the little things right. If you’re a physical player who is vocal and a playmaker, like Joe, then go out for each shift and focus on doing those three things

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well. Play your game. Sure, in practice and in training, work on strengthening all parts of your game and imNatascha Wesch proving your areas of weakness. But on game day, when it’s time to perform, trust your game and play to your strengths. Don’t try to be someone else, because I guarantee it won’t work. If you’re heading into a new season, want to play well, and get your coach and/ or the scouts to notice you, then your best shot at success is to focus on playing your game. Know what you’re good at and focus on executing those strengths. Use practice to build upon your strengths and turn your areas of weaknesses into areas of strength. In the words of Oscar Wilde, “Be yourself. Everyone else is taken.” Natascha Wesch is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) and a Mental Performance Consultant in private practice who works with individual athletes, coaches, and teams of all levels and backgrounds. To learn more and to contact her, find her on Facebook www.facebook.com/elitemindperformance or visit her website:

www.elitemindperformance.com

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Developing players, developing community Submitted by London Sharks Volleyball The London Sharks continue to show their strength by creating programs that develop great volleyball players while staying ahead of the game by being pioneers creating new programs and partnerships.

House League The first ever London Volleyball House League will start in September. We are still looking for Boys and Girls in grades 6-10 to enroll in our leagues. This program is sponsored by the Ontario Volleyball association.

Little Sharks and Academy Program These programs continue to develop new volleyball players. Little Sharks (ages 4 to 8) begins September 11. The Academy continues to feed our 12U-14U competitive programs, and it’s great for

children ages 9-11 years old wanting to learn the game the right way. Our 13U Girls team was best in London and 5th in the province last season. Our 13U Boys and 14U Girls finished 9th in the province and also were best in the city. Our developmental programs work, and they are successful.

Government of Ontario Grant The club is breaking new ground by being the recipient of a grant from the Ontario Government in partnership with ACFOLA to provide free access to youth of African and Caribbean backgrounds to learn the game of volleyball by attending our Developmental programs. The OVA is strongly supporting this ground-breaking initiative by promoting it with other clubs in Ontario.

Competitive Teams The club’s tryouts and player assessments will start on September 9. We will have competitive teams from 12U to 17U categories. We encourage all interested players to register on our website and see why the London Sharks continue to grow the right way. For more information on our developmental programs and competitive teams, visit our website at:

www.londonsharks.ca

Whether it’s offering London’s first ever house league volleyball, developing young players in its academy, or partnering with the Ontario government to promote the game to youth of African and Caribbean backgrounds, the London Sharks Volleyball Club is a leader in the London volleyball community

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Tryouts and New House League FEED THE FIRE LEAGUE FOR BOYS AND GIRLS 9-13

Submitted by the London Volleyball Club

Sundays: Sept. 25 - Nov. 20 (8 weeks) (excludes Thanksgiving)

Training

$145.00

(Skill Development)

Volleyball

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm

Sept. 9 - 23

(Intro to Tactics/ Competition)

Tryouts

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1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

The Package

$225.00

(Training + League) 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm

PLUS FREE 3 v 3 TOURNAMENT on Nov 27!!

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lvcfirevb

2016-08-05 9:59:58 AM

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lvcfire

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sportsfiles

London Senior games winners By Mitch Lupa, President District 30 London Senior Games The London Senior games for 55+ were completed on Jun 24/116 - that event being slo-pitch. There were 22 events scheduled from April to June 2016. Thank you to all those participants. The gold winners in each event were: Bocce - Gold: Betty Love, Dave Baptie. Tennis - Gold 55+ Men: Patrick Ambrogio, Robin Sweeney. Gold 65+ Men: Ron Keir, Don Mathewson. Gold 75+ Men: Valiya Manza, Hugh Schomburg. Gold 55+ Women: Norma McLachlan, Anne Dwyer Gold 55+ Mixed: Julie House, Mark Rau. Gold 65+ Mixed: Jane Evans, Paul Evans. 8 Ball - Gold: Bob Nagy. Euchre - Gold: Gertrude Van Lanen, Ruth Jarmain. Pickleball - Gold 65+ Men: Roy Perovich, John Blackwell. Gold 55+ Women: Kim Benke, Lyn Levadoski. Gold 65+ Women: Akiko Nakamaru, Jane VanDerkuyl. Gold 55+ Mixed: Lyn Levandoski, Sunny Chan. Gold 65+ Mixed: Jane VanDerkuyl, Harry VanDerkuyl. Darts - Gold Women: Sandie Clode, Anne Daniels. Gold Men: Tom Moore, Dan Thrasher. 5 Pin Bowling Team - Gold: Marg Gray Captain, Frank Gray, Jette Collins, Agnes Monteyne, Len Monteyne.

Individual - Gold 65+ Women: Anne Orton. Gold 75+ Women: Edna Vokes Gold 65+ Men: Bill Orton. Gold 75+ Men: Jim Emerson Carpet Bowling - Gold: Julie Weir, Dennis Weir. 18 Hole Golf - Gold 55+ Women: Karen Sheppard. Gold 65+ Women: Pam Martin. Gold 75+ Women: Kathy Haiselden. Gold 55+ Men: David Mahy. Gold 65+ Men: Don Cameron. Gold 75+ Men: Lorne Goodale. Cribbage - Gold: Bert Crews, Ed Andersen. Bid Euchre - Gold: Mary Brennan, Audrey Gray.

Participants in mixed pickleball.

Snooker - Gold: Don Cameron.

Contract Bridge - Gold: Maxine Boileau, Hubert Duhamel.

Mini Golf - Men Gold: Barry Fay. Women Gold: Jane Howitt.

Lawn Bowling Doubles - Gold: Sandy Ronson, Jim Young.

Prediction Walking - Gold 55+ Women: Sandie Clode. Gold 75+ Men: Joe Kaak.

Horseshoes - Gold Women: Betty Love, Mitch Lupa. Gold Men: Murray French, Bruce Munro.

12 Hole Golf - Gold 55+ Women: Karen Sheppard. Gold 65+ Women: Phyllis Johnston. Gold 75+ Women: Betty Gale. Gold 65+ Men: Dave Sanmiya. Gold 75+ Men: Lorne Goodale.

Slo-Pitch Recreational Mixed - Gold: Don McLeod Captain, Doug White, Barb White, Brian Logie, Mitch Lupa, Lenny Lombardi, Scott Jackson, Chris Andress, Edna Vokes, Kim Benke, Mike Vecchio, Shelley Fleming, Rudy Kotar, Tim Nix, Brian Lawrence.

Shuffleboard Floor - Gold: Bill VanMoorsel, Gary Dagenais.

www.londonseniorgames.com

Club volleyball takes flight in St. Thomas Submitted by Spikes St. Thomas For many years, children in St. Thomas have had a lot of choice in terms of participation in quality local sports programs. Volleyball, however, has never been an option outside of the school system. That changed in 2011 when Ken Gadsdon and Dennis Dlouhy started their chapter of the Ontario Volleyball

Association's SPIKES program. Since its inception, SPIKES St. Thomas has seen hundreds of children participate in the grassroots program, which has focused on teaching two things: Joy and Technique. “Here, we grow again,” says Dlouhy with a smirk.

Some of the leaders (aka ‘red shirts’) who make SPIKES fun!

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For its fifth anniversary, SPIKES St. Thomas will return with its Grade 1 - 8 Grassroots program for beginners. And it will be adding a Grade 6-8 House League for graduates of the Grassroots program who are seeking a bit more competition. Finally, for advanced girls in Grades 7 and 8, SPIKES St. Thomas has partnered with the Forest City Volleyball Club to offer St. Thomas' first club level program. “Children can now see a clear path from first touch to elite competition,” beams Dlouhy. “While we are striving to grow and offer different levels of play, we will always focus on two things: Joy and Technique.” For information about becoming a coach, volunteer or player with SPIKES St. Thomas, please visit spikesstthomas.ca or call Dennis Dlouhy at 519-495-9179. Tryouts for the club begin September 12.

www.spikesstthomas.ca

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Proudly sponsored by

2016 Lacrosse Championships Submitted by London Minor Lacrosse Association

Ontario Lacrosse Association Championships The London Blue Devil Midget boys won the 2016 Ontario Lacrosse Association’s Provincial Midget ‘B’ Championship! During the very hot August weekend in Whitby, the team dominated their competition (Huntsville, Sarnia, Six Nations 2, St. Catharines, Welland, and the defending champions, Niagara), outscoring their opponents 40-16 over six games. Goalie Owen Dew allowed just one goal in each of the semi-final and final games, earning him the MVP award. In addition to the Provincial Championship, team highlights this

season included a 14-game unbeaten streak, upending Team Nova Scotia 6-1 in tournament play, and winning the Zone 7 Midget Championship. Especially for the graduating players, nothing can compare to achieving their first ever provincial box medal in the last game of their minor careers! The Blue Devil ladies also brought home Provincial hardware. The Bantam and Intermediate girls teams both advanced to their respective ‘B’ division championship games and earned silver medals in very tight one-goal finals. Other teams that moved on to the Ontario Lacrosse playoff rounds included

Sidney Deleary is shown here in Cal-

gary winning the Canadian Lacrosse Tyke 1 and Association Bantam Championship with the Novice Team Ontario girls squad 1, who both reached the ‘B’ semifinals, and the young Tyke 2s, who made it to their ‘E’ quarterfinal. The Bantam 1 team represented London at the ‘A’ division provincial qualifiers. A total of 10 London teams participated at the Ontario Lacrosse Festival, the largest annual youth lacrosse event in North America.

National Lacrosse Championships of Canada London Lacrosse also had several players compete at the Canadian Lacrosse Association Championships, all of them medaling in their respective divisions: • Sidney Deleary: Bantam girls Champion with Team Ontario • Gregory Elijah-Brown and Quincy Abram: Midget boys Finalists with Team First Nations • Damon Doxtator, Richie Albert, Jacob Cornelius: Bantam Bronze Medalists with Team First Nations • Simeon Powless: Peewee Finalist with Team First Nations

Front row (l to r): Tyler O’Neil, Eric Lave, Ben Foster, Harrison Kerr (AP), Owen Dew, Matthew Pattyn, Quinn Wenger. Back row (l to r): Kevin Carruthers (Trainer), Mike Dale (Assistant Coach), Michael Dew (Assistant Coach), Daniel Carruthers, Ben Brown, Chase Hay, Blake Goris, Patrick Hogan, Gregory Elijah-Brown, Quincy Abram, Corban Nicholas, Owen Dale (AP), Connor Keogh, Tim Hogan (Assistant Coach), Tehas Powless, Samuel Smith, Ron Elijah (Head Coach)

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www.londonlacrosse.com

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New home for hot tub pros Submitted by Beachcomber Hot Tubs of London Beachcomber Hot Tubs of London has been in business for 19 years, but they now have a new place to call home. Having outgrown its old location years ago, the company, which proudly serves London and Sarnia, needed more space for all aspects of the business. But growth is a good thing. In fact, it’s something to be celebrated. So, Beachcomber held a VIP event to mark the transition to their new digs and welcomed more than 220 of their customers attend the function. The Mud Creek Band performed, and Railway City Brewing, a local brewery in St. Thomas, provided the beer – which was chilled along with wine in a Beachcomber hot tub full of ice. The event included a ton of giveaways (barbeque tools, hot tub and pool accessories, Napoleon gas grill, hot air balloon rides courtesy of Sundance hot air balloons, free pool chemicals for a year), and was a fully catered celebration. “The main reason for the VIP night was to thank our customers,” Beachcomber owner Jeff McColl said. “They’re the reason we were able to move to this new facility.” And the new location has already had its payoffs. “There are a number of products we sell and services we provide that we

weren’t able to display or promote properly at our old location,” McColl said. “This means our customers are able to get what they want much quicker. We’ve built our business on customer service, and our customers, as well as our staff, are really enjoying this new location.”

www.bht-london.com

Beachcomber owners Jeff McColl & Jeremy Slemko

Deleary wins gold at Nationals By Mackenzie Deleary “If you're good enough, you're old enough to play at a certain level.” ~ John Herdman, head coach, Canadian women’s national soccer team. This quote certainly applied to London Blue Devils Lacrosse player Sidney Deleary this summer, as she was one of 20 players (and the youngest) selected to represent Team Ontario at the 2016 Female Box Lacrosse Nationals (July 1823) in Calgary, Alberta. “When I went into my interview, I was Buffalo Bills vs

New England - Oct 30

Pittsburgh - Dec 11

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A football league for all Submitted by London Minor Football Association As 24 teams and over 650 players gear up for the return of house league minor football in London, a group of football moms and new players from all over London enjoyed an introduction to football courtesy of the LMFA as part of the league’s efforts to grow the sport of football in London. In late August, an enthusiastic group of women completed the fourth annual ‘LMFA Women’s Clinic’ at Citywide Park. They learned some basic football skills and tried their hand at practice drills. Then, the London Football Officials Association gave a talk about the rules of the game. After a light lunch, the women learned about strategy, equipment, and safety in a classroom setting. “We expect all the new moms will enjoy the games even more now that they

have learned about the sport,” said LMFA president Shawn Wilson as the clinic finished up. “We are committed to presenting opportunities that will continue to promote interest in minor football in London and specifically the LMFA.” After five successful years of indoor skills camps, a new series of summer LMFA football camps debuted this year. These camps focused on specific skills (passing and catching in year one) and are an upbeat, fun way for girls and boys to get an introduction to football in a relaxed casual setting with coaching from veteran LMFA and high school coaches. Both these camps are part of London Minor Football’s commitment to making

At the fourth annual ‘LMFA Women’s Clinic’ in late August, a group of football moms and new players learned football skills and tried some practice drills.

Sidney Deleary, a London Blue Devils lacrosse player, brought home a gold medal as the youngest member of the Team Ontario Bantam squad that traveled to Calgary, Alberta in July for the 2016 Female Box Lacrosse Nationals

Detroit Lions vs

football available to everyone in London, regardless of experience. For 58 years, the LMFA has given youngsters from ages 7 to 13 the best possible football experience in the exciting and fun house league setting. The LMFA has provided all local high schools with eager and experienced football players, and this great partnership will continue for many more years to come. For more information on the 2016 fall season, please visit www.lmfafootball.ca or call 519-852-4465.

www.lmfafootball.ca

LMFA’s football camps this season focused on specific skills (passing and catching this year) while offering a fun way for boys and girls to get introduced to the game of football.

kind of nervous, and my heart was beating fast,” said Deleary. “The coaches gave me feedback about my skills and things I needed to work on while also complimenting me on my speed. I was very excited and happy when I was told that I had been selected to play for Team Ontario. I dedicate my success to my family, especially my older siblings, Taylor, Mackenzie and Callin Deleary, who helped train me for the team tryouts against girls who were all one and two years older than me.” The Canadian Box Lacrosse Nationals involved Team Ontario, as well as other provincial teams from British Columbia and Alberta in a week-long tournament.

Philadelphia - Oct 9

LA - Oct 16

The Team Ontario Bantams finished the tournament with 6 wins and 1 loss, bringing home the gold medal and the Bantam tournament trophy. Deleary contributed 1 goal and 2 assists along the way. Sidney hopes to continue to represent Team Ontario Girls Box Lacrosse and also the provincial Women’s Field Team as a way to receive opportunities to be recruited by NCAA Division Teams. teamontariolacrosse.pointstreaksites.com

Minnesota - Nov 24

Chicago - Dec 11

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Green Bay - Jan 1

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OVFL 2016 Summer All Ontario All Stars

2016 OMFL Atom All Stars

2016 OMFL Pee Wee All Stars

Submitted by London Junior Mustangs Football The Ontario Varsity Football League (OVFL) recently announced the summer All Ontario All Stars for each division. The London Junior Mustangs are proud to announce that 28 players plus a coach were

awarded with this special distinction. The Junior Varsity team had a great season and finished as a finalist in the championship game.

2016 OVFL Bantam All Stars: Adam Dekraker, Reashawn Blake, Cole Seaton and Christopher Weber

www.londonjuniormustangs.com

Proudly sponsored by

2016 OVFL Junior Varsity All Stars: Coach J.P. Circelli, Ethan Martin, Chase Brown, Remy Bikowski, Travis Skinner, Zach Fry, Sydney Brown and Brian Garrity

Summer 2016 London Jr. Mustangs JV OVFL

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2016 OVFL Varsity All Stars: Brentyne Anderson Brown, Griffin Bock, Matthew Bettencourt, Spencer Hood, Chace McGee, Daniel Valente and Spencer Nichols(no photo)

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Back to the dojo Submitted by Olympic Karate When most use the word ‘dojo’, they As serious as that all sounds, we do have will make in your life or your child’s life. are referring to the place where martial lots of fun in all of our karate classes! Fall is an awesome time to sign up, and arts are practiced and learned. Our September kicks off the start of our 34th we welcome anyone – regardless of skill classes for children are created to be season in London, and we have lots to level or experience (ages 4+). Just as it’s complimentary to the skills and behavlook forward to, including our annual fall time for back to school, it’s also time to iour required to be successful at school. Tournament of Champions (open to all come back to the dojo! Skills like respect, focus/discipline, levels). www.olympickarate.on.ca courtesy, proper addressing of leadCome in and see the difference karate ers and teachers, health/ fitness, and concentration are all strongly enforced. It’s important to uphold these skills because the karate has the potential to be harmful to others if used improperly. Luckily for our students, we have over 30+ years in London teaching karate. We have certified instructors to help maintain safety and teach the importance of usBack to school time means it’s also time to come back to the dojo! Olympic Karate is kicking off its 34th season in London this fall and is excited to see some ing karate as self-defence. new faces learning the skills of karate

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©2016 Audi Canada. *Base MSRP of a new and unregistered 2017 Audi A4 2.0 TFSI quattro Komfort S tronic is $45,822, including $2,095 freight and PDI, $10 OMVIC fee, $22 EHF (tires), $100 a/c levy and $395 dealer admin fee. License, insurance, registration, options, and applicable taxes are extra. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Dealer may sell or lease for less. European model shown with features that may be available on the Canadian model. Vehicles shown for illustration purposes only. “Bang & Olufsen” is a registered trademark of Bang & Olufsen A/S. “Audi”, “A4”, “Vorsprung durch Technik”, and the four rings emblem are trademarks of AUDI AG registered in Canada. To find out more about Audi, visit your Audi dealer, call 1-800-FOR-AUDI, or visit us at www.audi.ca.

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Royal Choreography Camps set up Season 4

CheerStrike campers ringing the bell for their achievement of new skills

Submitted by CheerStrike Season 4 is off and running at the CheerStrike Royals gym. We are starting September off strong thanks to our first summer of Choreography Camps. Throughout August we held weekly camps for all of our competitive teams, levels one to three, where teams learned their routines for the season, bonded as

teammates and had plenty of Royal fun. The teams were treated to many guest coaches, choreographers and cool treats. We are proud to offer training for young athletes, designed to fit their level of physical and mental growth. By offering camps according to age and skill level, we designed a week that offered the most potential in learning, fun and skill development. The result of this training is a team of friends that are motivated to work towards similar goals and young athletes who show confidence and excitement when taking on new challenges. In a time when young children are more anxious and fearful than they've ever been, at the Royal CheerStrike campers meet with ivivva employees every week to work on their goal gym we encourage our athletes setting for the future

to STRIKE back against anxiety with confidence and belief in themselves. Besides our Maeve Maloney and Sienna Richter – competitive members of the Mini Monarch team teams, the working hard learning their routine at Choreography Camp CheerStrike gym is continuing to run Fall Recreational cheer classes, tumbling lessons for all levels, and private tumbling lessons, as well as our daytime programing for our littlest princes and princesses. We offer drop-in play sessions, kinder cheer classes, and parent and tot classes throughout the week during business hours. Check out our website for full details: www.cheerstrikeroyals.com

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Is High School Cheer Dead? Submitted by Power Cheer Gym As the summer winds down and the kids dread heading back to school, the PCG is gearing up for its 18th cheer season. Viper teams start at 4 years of age (Tiny Vipers) and run all the way up through Mini (6-8), Youth (7-11), Junior (11-14) and Senior (14-18). There are four different levels of competitive teams, and novices are always welcome. Our PCG

Blase Rhine gives Meika some advice before she attempts a new tumbling line

Special Needs program also returns in September for its third season. Athletes hoping to cheer for their high school officially now have no options in London, as the last and longest running high school program ceased operation in June. London was a hotbed for school cheering through the 1980’s and into the 2000’s, but lack of coaches and school support has been the sport’s death knell. Luckily, the Power Cheer Gym offers a great alternative for high school athletes of all skill levels who are yearning to cheer, tumble and participate in this high energy multi-disciplined sport. The PCG is also a great starting point for those looking to cheer He stole their hearts. Blase strikes a pose with

Vipers Elite Training Camp

beyond high school; the PCG is home to three of the Nation’s top Collegiate Cheerleading teams. In August, over 50 athletes attended an elite skills development camp at PCG which featured numerous guest instructors, including Blase Rhine (Stingrays - Atlanta) and Shae Book (Western Mustangs and 2x World Champion; Great White Sharks). Those in attendance walked away with new skills, lasting memories and a fresh outlook for the fall season. The Vipers will once again be taking part in the London Knights’ Home Opener in September and have lots of fun activities planned for the fall, including a “Trunk or Treat” Halloween Street Party, themed practices and movie nights at the gym. Interested in joining a Viper team for the 2016 season and missed tryouts? Call to arrange a meeting with one of our fully certified, fun and friendly coaches. 519-667-0565 or E-mail pcg@powercheergym.com.

some Senior Surge girls

www.powercheergym.com pcgvipers

Athletes and Instructors pose after a great camp weekend

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Always room on our Podium Submitted by The Little Gym of London At The Little Gym of London, we measure success by improvement, enthusiasm and, most of all, fun! Our non-competitive gymnastics and enrichment programs encourage kids to try their best, not to be the best. Because we believe that giant grins are better than gold medals! We also know how important it is for children to build, gain, and radiate confidence. Here are three things we do in the gym that can be echoed at home:

1. Specific Positive Feedback (SPF). Rather than saying “good job” when your child has done something well, we give them specific positive feedback! Words of praise mean more when they refer to a child’s specific efforts or new abilities. 2. Encourage and support your child in everything they do! Whether it is at home or at The Little Gym of London, words of support and encouragement go a long way! 3. Trust your child and let them make decisions. This will allow your child to

build their confidence knowing that you trust them enough to make decisions on their own! A new Season filled with smiles and milestones starts on September 10! To learn more about our Serious Fun programs for kids 4 months through 12 years, visit www.tlglondoncan.com or give us a call at 519-642-0660 and speak with a friendly team member today! We can’t wait to see you on our Podium!

www.tlglondoncan.com

The Little Gym of London believes that giant grins are better – and more important – than gold medals. Success is measured by improvement, enthusiasm, and – most importantly – fun!

Connecting kids and sports Submitted by Connect Sports London

Connect Sports Kids Connect Sports London held a free youth community event July 9 at the London Eco Park. It was a fun-filled day full of sports, laughs and memories.

More than 50 kids took part in our free event, which included lunch, transportation and giveaways. We allocate a portion of all profits into running free kids events. We believe all kids should

Enjoying the fishing at the London Eco Park on Connect Sports Kids Day

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have the opportunity to enjoy sports and events with no financial restrictions!

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Cleveland Brownlee of the London Majors hangs out with some of his biggest fans!

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TLC a true team player Submitted by TLC Landscaping The competition was fierce. In an effort to do something nice as a thank you for those in the community, we set up a budget of $30,000 and held a giveaway as part of our 30th anniversary celebrations, taking submissions from the public and community groups. In the end, three legacies were given. The largest was a landscape improvement and wheelchair ramp that we

constructed at a home for a family in the downtown/Old east area. The mom and dad and three kids live in a small house, and they needed a wheelchair ramp to help one of their kids, who has cerebral palsy, get in and out of the house. We also added a large shade tree and some other garden improvements. What fun it was to make their lives a little easier and enjoyable. In South London, TLC performs the grounds care at Middlesex Condominium Corp 446. Condo grounds care is the core of our business, and we were excited to hear from a corporation who needed our help. The condo is a fairly recent conversion from a rental to a condominium, and their landscape and A look at the three winning bid projects for TLC Landscaping’s 30th anniversary giveaway. In helping the reserve budget

were both in need of some help. Condo living is a great choice for folks, and we were happy to help improve the many building entranceways with some beautiful gardens. Finally, we are connected to Woodcrest Community Pool on Village Green Ave. in Westmount, as one of our employees and his family are members at the pool. Over 120 families in the Westmount area pay a small membership fee to use this outdoor pool in the summer. It's a vibrant, fun place, and especially useful during the hot summer months. The pool has a fairly long list of needed capital improvements. TLC made a $5,000 donation to this fund. We at TLC Landscaping are thrilled to be able to give back to the communities who have been such loyal clients over the years. www.tlc.ca

community, TLC shows it is truly a team player.

proaching. We’re growing every season, and we anticipate all leagues selling out. Don’t miss out on playing with Connect Sports this fall!

Register at phone 519-859-9714 or

www.connectsportslondon.com

Outdoor Leagues League Start Date & Sport Wed, Sept 7: Flag Football Wed, Sept 7: Soccer Sun, Sept 11: Softball

Indoor Leagues Kim & Natalie with a great catch!

Connect Sports Fall Registration is Open! The Connect Sports co-ed adult sport leagues registration deadline is fast ap-

League Start Date & Sport Mon, Sept 19: Basketball Mon, Sept 19: Volleyball Tues, Sept 20: Flex League Wed, Sept 21: Floor Hockey Thurs, Sept 22: Dodgeball @SportsXpressLON

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TGA Fall and Winter 2016 Programs Now Booking Submitted by TGA Premier Junior Golf

Wow, what a summer we had! Thank you to our over 36 sponsors for helping our TGA London summer golf camps, clinics and classes be the most successful ever. We invite all of our readers to check out our Partners page on our website at www.PlayTGA.ca/London and to patronize them all at your earliest convenience. They are truly the best! During the 2016 summer programs, TGA London topped the 150,000 golf lessons landmark, having given more than 4,000 London children and adults lessons over the past three years. What a story, and what a great time we have had teaching golf and character development while bringing new faces and doing our part to breathe new life into the golf industry in such meaningful ways.

YMCA, and all the details will pop up for you there. Also, note that YMCA members attending our classes at YMCA locations have special TGA privileges, so make sure you check them out as well. Everyone is welcome at all of our locations at any time, so if you need more information or assistance simply contact Joe Barnes at jbarnes@playtga.co. Or call our office at 519-457-1473. We look forward to seeing you all in our Fall and Winter programs. Now is the time to register to avoid disappointment! Visit www.PLayTGA.ca/London or call our office at 519-457-1473.

The TGA London Premier Junior Golf tradition continues as we begin the fall and winter segments of our 12-month, year-round golf enrichment programs for children ages 4 to 14. Our elementary school programs are now ready for registration simply by going on our website (www.PlayTGA. ca/London) and clicking on the ‘Sign Up Today’ tab. Then, in the search bar, type in the location you would like to attend. For elementary schools, type in Mountsfield, Ryerson, St. Nicholas, St. Mark, St. Anthony, or St. Paul, and all the details will pop up for you. If you wish to attend one of our YMCA locations, simply type in YMCA Komoka, Bob Hayward YMCA, or Stoney Creek

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2017 CITY OF LONDON MUNICIPAL GOLF MEMBERSHIP PROMOTION! 2017 CITY OF LONDON MUNICIPAL GOLF MEMBERSHIP PROMOTION! Purchase your 2017 Golf Membership starting on September 12th and enjoy its privileges and benefits for the rest of the 2016 Golf Season (Green fees apply to certain memberships) Municipal Golf Memberships can be purchased in person or over the phone at Thames Valley, Fanshawe or River Road Golf Course. Memberships are also available through City of London Customer Service (519) 661-5575 Call one of our golf courses at (519) 661-4450 for more information or visit www.london.ca/golf

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Succeeding at all levels Submitted by London Junior Golf Development Centre The competitive golf season has been full of great experiences and success for local golfers. Team London golfers have been preparing and competing at local, provincial and national events this summer. The following are a few highlights: Carson – started July at the national CN Future Links Atlantic Championship in Prince Edward Island. The conditions had high winds, as Carson posted a 75 in the 2nd round and finished T62 of 85 golfers.

The following week Carson competed in the provincial Golf Ontario Junior Championship with rounds of 78 and 85 to miss the cut. Cam – participated in the Ontario Summer Games in Mississauga. Opening rounds of 76 and 81 left him just at the cut line. A third round of 76 in difficult conditions was impressive to finish T35 of 60. A few weeks later, Cam finished 1st at the MJT Whistle Bear Championship with rounds of 73 and 71. Colin – victorious at the Highland Junior Open on the local Tyson Tour. For the season, Colin was in 2nd in the junior division entering the final event. Team London visits Seaforth – Nine juniors aged 10 to 14 parTeam London at the Seaforth Junior Invitational – (left to right): Grant ticipated in the Seaforth Junior Cunningham, Paige Cunningham, Mackenzie Mercer, Quinton Cosby, Sullivan Gibb, Austin Kuiack, Ben Urbshott, Mason Wittur and Mike Lucier Invitational. Congratulations to

Cam at the Ontario Summer Games

Paige for winning closest to the pin! The quality of programming and commitment to junior golf at the LJGDC includes juniors at various stages in the Long-Term Development Pathway. This year juniors can participate in the following programs: • Active Start (under 6) • Learn to Golf Junior League (ages 6 to 14) • Summer PGA Golf Camps (ages 7 to 14) • Team London New Competitor, Development and Advanced Teams (ages 10 to 22) To become part of this best in-class golf program and community, visit www. golfbetter.ca.

www.londonjuniorgolf.com

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Summer swimming success Submitted by the London Aquatic Club London Aquatic Club swimmers had a very busy summer, with 27 swimmers racing at the Provincial Championships in Etobicoke in early July, finishing 11th overall out of 90 competing clubs; the Open Water Provincials in Brampton, where Alexandra Goodreau and Carter Buck won their age divisions; the Can-Am ParaSwimming Championships in Gatineau, Quebec in mid-July; and the Summer National Championships in Edmonton in early August. The club also hosted its annual Paul Hauch Invitational outdoor swim meet at the Thames Park Pool, with 400 swimmers from across southern Ontario in attendance. Maggie MacNeil and Devin Gotell will both be representing Canada – Maggie

at the Junior Pan-Pacific Championships in Hawaii, and Devin at the Paralympic Games (his 3rd) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in mid-September. With the Olympics having come and gone, we would encourage anyone who thinks they may want to give competitive swimming a try to come out to one of our try-out sessions on either Sept. 13 or Sept. 15. If you can swim one length of the pool (25 meters), want to be strong and fit and have fun, give us a try! You don’t have to be an Olympian, but we can certainly help you chase and maybe even catch your swimming dreams, whatever they may be. Call 519-857-SWIM or Visit us online:

www.londonaquaticclub.ca

Seven LAC swimmers raced at the Summer Nationals in Edmonton: (Left to right): Nathan, Aitana, Dave, Vince, Brayden, Maggie, Jess

David Armstrong competes in the 50m backstroke

@SportsXpressLON

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Maggie MacNeil, who won her first two national titles

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sportsfiles

Celebrating a decade in the pool Submitted by Middlesex Swimming Middlesex Swimming is celebrating its 10th swim season! The club was established in October 2007 with only seven swimmers at one pool location. By 2010, the club had started a Masters team and began offering programs in London. It expanded again in 2011, adding swim programs in St. Marys and Stratford. In 2015, Middlesex Swimming launched its water polo program, in doing so creating one of the only swim/ water polo combined clubs in Canada. And in the fall of 2016, the club began its own co-ed Masters water polo program for beginners. Today, Middlesex Swimming boasts more than 250 members at seven locations, the club has a top-rated age group swim and water polo program, and features the number one Masters swim team in Southwestern Ontario!

Coach Hewerdine Leading the charge at Middlesex Swimming is head coach Johnny Hewerdine, a born and raised Londoner who began his own swim career at five years of age. He enjoyed a long and successful 17-year career in competitive swimming, competing not just locally and provincially, but also on the national and international stage. Hewerdine was a multiple Ontario champion and provincial record holder, and was both a member of Western University’s varsity swimming team and water polo squad. For the last 13 years, Hewerdine has competed as a Masters athlete in both swimming and water polo. Impressively, in 2006 he was ranked #1 in the world in his Masters age group for

the 1500m freestyle event. As a coach, Hewerdine now boasts 13 years of experience poolside. After coaching for a few local clubs, including Southwestern Aquatics and the Speed Shark Swim Team, Hewerdine decided to start his own program. Thus, Middlesex Swimming was born. Not wanting to leave London, he figured starting a swim program was the obvious solution to stay in the city he loved. Today, Hewerdine oversees a staff of knowledgeable and passionate Middlesex coaches that continually help the club’s athletes reach their goals. In addition to his duties at Middlesex Swimming, he is also on the coaching staff of Western’s water polo team.

life and reach their performance goals. With swimming and water polo under one umbrella, our members become multi-sport athletes. Our swim/water polo multi-sport athletes are the happiest and healthiest (mentally and physically) on the team. The program has a streamlined system where athletes can compete as an age grouper, play water polo as a varsity athlete, and then continue as a Masters member for life. Our Masters athletes are successful professionals, looking to reach their fitness goals in a positive environment. Masters co-ed water polo for beginners is a great alternative for fun and fitness. All abilities are welcome!

The Middlesex Program

Middlesex will begin its regular season on September 19 and run until the end of June. The summer program runs from July to the end of August. Registration and schedules can be found at www.middlesexswimming.ca. Or for more info, email: info@middlesexswimming.ca.

The main focus of Middlesex Swimming is to help our athletes fall in love with swimming/water polo and become active for life in the pool. We have designed a specialized, step-by-step program for our parents and athletes to follow. This program helps our athletes stay active for

Hewerdine leads a group of Middlesex Swimming coaches who work hard to help the club’s athletes achieve their goals

The 2016-2017 Swim Season

www.middlesexswimming.ca

A team photo of the original 2007-2008 Middlesex Swimming team photo

Flashing forward, the 2014-2015 age group team poses for a photo

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Diving for medals at ‘16 Games Submitted by Forest City Diving Club The summer of 2016 was such an exciting time for the sports world. Athletes around the world met up in Rio to compete in the most important competition of their athletic careers – the Olympics. Although the majority of our divers are under aged for the Olympics, they too had their own high level competitions. Ten young FCDC divers competed at the Tier 1 level at the Jr. Speedo Development and Jr. Speedo Elite Nationals this summer. The majority of our divers achieved top 12 standing in the country, placing FCDC in 6th spot out of 27 clubs across

Introducing PLOUF!

Canada. Congratulations to Julia Parybak for her Silver medal in the Girls C 1m, and to Katelyn Fung for her two Bronze medals on Girls C 3m and Platform. In the spirit of the Summer Olympics, Mississauga, ON was the host for the 2016 Ontario Summer Games. Nine of our divers participated in the event. FCDC brought home 16 medals (10 Gold, 5 Silver and one Bronze). Congratulations to Camryn Hughes, Nathan Marshall, Katelyn Fung, Julia Parybak, Nigel Chambers and Alexa Fung for their podium finishes.

The Forest City Diving Club is thrilled to announce a new Learn to Dive program sanctioned by Dive Ontario called PLOUF! This program was designed by Plongeon Quebec and consists of 6 skill levels. The philosophy of the program is to introduce children to the sport of diving and create a life long love for the sport. For more information about the program, and to find the fall schedule, please visit us online at www.forestcitydiving.com.

www.forestcitydiving.com

While the world’s best athletes competed in Rio, the Forest City Diving Club had its own premier event – the 2016 Ontario Summer Games. Nine FCDC divers competed at the event, and they brought home a combined 16 medals.

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Swimming with the Dolphins Submitted by the London Silver Dolphins

And the bowling trophy goes to Reza!

The 2016-2017 swim season for the London Silver Dolphins masters swim club officially begins on September 12, and it will run through the fall, winter and spring, concluding on

Share. Inspire.

Recognize. 2016 PILLAR COMMUNITY INNOVATION AWARDS

June 29. As we look back on our 2015-2016 season, highlights include our great new coaches, Amanda and Kelly, the many new faces we saw in the lanes, and the National Record in the 4 X 100 mixed medley relay (40+ age group). Our goals for this season are to focus on fitness and fun, welcome new members, and peak for the Provincials in Thornhill on March 24-26. If you are between the ages of 18 and 118 and enjoy swimming, we welcome you to become a Silver Dolphin. Our coaches and fellow swimmers will certainly help you improve your stroke, speed and stamina in the pool. Along with our pool training, which is intense for some and more casual for others, we celebrate the importance of friendship in the wellness equation. Monthly pub nights, Sunday brunches and a Christmas bowling party help to build team camaraderie.

About the London Silver Dolphins The London Silver Dolphins were founded in 1983 by current club member Chuck Grace. We are six-time Ontario Masters Swimming Champions (20062008, 2010, 2013, 2014), and we won the Canadian Masters Swimming Championship in 2014. Inquire about a trial swim with Dolphins! Check us out online.

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National record holders Nick (freestyle), Sandie (breaststroke), Anneke (backstroke) and Chuck (butterfly)

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New badminton club set to launch Submitted by OF COURTS Badminton in London has a newcomer on the scene: The Forest City Badminton Club. Historically, badminton has been a tough sport to find places to play in the city. To combat that, a local badminton player, Richard Lee, and the racquet sports store OF COURTS in London (located at Oxford and Talbot downtown) have decided to start a new program. And the initial target of 60 players to join the club is filling up quickly! The club will be playing out of various locations throughout the week, but play will start at Beal Secondary School Tuesday nights for three hours. The club is currently looking for another venue to host for 2-3 more evenings per week. A Junior program is a key piece in the foundation of any good club, and that’s why Peter Urkedal, one of the founders of the club, will be looking to have junior nights

once or twice per week. “The best way to grow badminton at the highest level in the city is to start by getting more kids into the game at an early age,” said Urkedal. But even though there will be a push to recruit juniors to the program later, the Forest City Badminton Club is open to all levels of adult players on Tuesdays. Whether you reminisce about your glory

days in high school playing on the badminton team, or if you’ve never picked up a racquet, now is the time to join what is sure to be the most fun club in the city. Please contact peter@ofcourts.ca for further information about the club, or come to OF COURTS at 121 Oxford St East.

www.ofcourts.ca

The Forest City Badminton Club, created by a local player, Richard Lee, and the racquet sports store Of Courts, will provide badminton players of all levels a chance to play in a fun and competitive league

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Bentley Hearing recognizes Sporting Seniors Featured Organization: The London Pickleball Club

Pickleball for a cause Submitted by the London Pickleball Club

Pickleball superwoman Judy Alaszkiewicz

London Pickleball players (left to right) Gina Macdonald, Peter Singleton, Bob Riehl and Susan Singleton

The London Pickleball Club started into ‘superhero’ teams for a fun day of Complex in Dorchester. four years ago as an invitation-only pickleball. Through ticket sales, a silent The event is open to the first group of citizens in the community auction, and a live auction, the London 64 players to register (the registration who wanted to play fun and competiPickleball Club raised $6,394 for the deadline is Sept. 16). The day will feative pickleball games. Today, the Club cause. ture tournament play at all skill levels, boasts 72 members and hosts an With member Judy a silent auction, raffle and more. Cost is annual ‘rated’ tournament that atAlaszkiewicz diagnosed with ALS, the $35 per person, which includes lunch. tracts nearly 200 players from all over Club has a personal connection to the Come on out and support ALS research. Southwestern Ontario (this year’s cause, and is looking forward to the For more information, or to learn more tourney will run May 27-28, 2017 at second Superheroes tournament, which about the London Pickleball Club, visit Fanshawe College). will be held Saturday, October 1 (8am to the Club online at: Last year, the group held 4pm) at the Thames Centre Recreation www.londonpickleball.ca its first ‘Superheroes’ pickleball tournament for in support of the neurological disease ALS. The event featured 64 players at all skill and age levels divided London Pickleball players in action Members of the London Pickleball Club, who have come together to support one of their own and raise funds for ALS

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Late-blooming world champ called to Hall By SportsXpress Team, contributions by Bruce Huff and Bill Smith June-Marie Provost, a former world champion race-walker, estimates that she’s walked nearly 247,000 kilometres during her 83 years on earth. Remarkably, she didn’t take up the sport of race-walking until she was 57 – after she had raised five children. But the late start didn’t hold her back in the slightest. Provost became June-Marie Provost

one of Canada’s elite race-walkers, representing the country at 11 World Championships while competing in every continent except for Antarctica. Along the way, she racked up 27 medals (18 gold, 7 silver and 2 bronze). On Nov. 3, 2016, the 83-year-old will rightly earn a spot in London’s Sports Hall of Fame during an induction ceremony in the Carousel Room at the Western Fair District. She’ll be joined by fellow 2016 inductees Kylee Reade-White (lacrosse), Jeff Glass (Olympic hurler) and the late Harvey Bailie (baseball). In 25 years of racing, Provost compet-

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ed at every distance – from 1,500 metres to 20 kilometres. There was a time when she held 20 provincial Masters records simultaneously, which later earned her a place in the Ontario Masters Association Hall of Fame in 2011. Despite breaking her hip 11 years ago, she healed up and returned to the sport, setting a record in the 80-85 age category. She’s been slowed recently after breaking her other hip and dealing with spinal stenosis, but Provost may very well be the gold standard for proof that you’re never too old to do anything. Truly an inspiration, she’ll now be recognized for her impressive exploits with a place in London’s Sports Hall of Fame.

londonsportshalloffame.com

2016 INDUCTION CEREMONY Thursday, Nov. 3, 2016 Carousel Room, Western Fair District Individual ticket: $50.00 • Table of 8: $400.00 For sponsorship information, contact: Bill Smith London Sports Hall of Fame Committee members (Left to right): Tom Dalby, Don Pollock, Jim Easton, Jay Minielly, Brian Logie, Bill Smith

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bill-lsc@westernfairdistrict.com or 519 438 7203 ext. 370

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sports@school

Mustangs return to the ice this fall By Pam Bialik and photos by Brandon VandeCaveye (WHKY) and Grace Chung (MHKY) After a season that saw both the women’s and the men’s hockey programs compete in their respective CIS Championships, expectations are running high for the upcoming Mustangs’ season. The women appeared at the national championships for the second time in as many years but were ultimately unable to repeat their 2014-15 title, while the men made their first appearance to the University Cup since their 2012 silver medal finish. While neither team ended with the banner finish they had hoped for, the upcoming season offers another chance to land the title. The women’s roster will be missing some big names this season, as two-time All-Canadian Kelly Campbell, threetime All-Canadian defensemen Katelyn Gosling, and dominating forwards Brittany Clapham, Stacey Scott and Kendra Broad have all moved on from the program. Brianna Iazzolino – who was recently invited to Hockey Canada’s Women’s Development Camp – is expected to take over for Gosling as Western’s top defender. The Nursing student is returning for her final year after recording 10 points last season. She will serve as an assistant captain. Helping to absorb the losses of Scott and Broad is Lyndsay Kirkham.

The Cranbrook, BC native joined the Mustangs for the 2015-16 season from NCAA Division I Lindenwood University after recording 22 goals and 27 assists in 103 games. Since suiting up in purple and white, she’s picked up nine assists and three goals to become the top returning forward. New head coach Kelly Paton has also brought in eight rookies to help fill out the Western roster, with five forwards, two goalies and one defenceman set to join the ranks. Fans will get their first look at the team on October 7, when the Mustangs make their regular season return to Thompson Arena. The game will see the Mustangs face off against a growing rival in the Guelph Gryphons. The last two OUA finals have seen a Guelph-Western matchup, with the Mustangs taking the McCaw Cup in 2014-15, and the Gryphons pulling off a win last season. The men’s team also suffered a few departures, with captain David Corrente, Noah Schwartz, Alex Micallef, Matt Herskovitz, transfer Stephen Sanza, and assistant captains Shaun Furlong and Stephen Gaskin all moving on. However, a strong core remains to propel the team through the upcoming season. The past year was initially considered by some to be a rebuilding year for the Mustangs, but the Class of 2015 defied expectations and quickly

Veteran Brianna Iazzolino is back to help anchor the Mustangs blueline in her final season in purple and white

www.westernmustangs.ca

Matt Marantz returns to the lineup this year after leading the team in scoring in 2015-16 with five goals and 21 assists

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established themselves as some of the league’s toughest competitors. In their debut season, Spenser Cobbold, Ray Huether, and Andrew Goldberg emerged as three of the team’s five leading point-earners. Returning alongside them will be Matt Marantz, who led the team in scoring with five goals and 21 assists. Back for his fifth and final year, the Criminology student is expected to continue to play a big role in the team’s success. With a strong incoming class complimenting the returning athletes, the men’s team should once again compete for the top spot in the always tough OUA West Division. Their quest for the cup officially begins on October 6, when the Mustangs will travel to Guelph to take on the Gryphons. Last year the teams crossed paths five times – twice in the regular season and in a three-game series for the OUA West Final – with Western coming away with a 4-1 record in those games. The Mustangs will then open up their home schedule on October 14 against the Waterloo Warriors. Full schedules for both the men’s and the women’s teams can be found at:

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The First Shift is here Submitted by London Devilettes Hockey

‘The First Shift’ changing the way hockey is offered to new families As the London Devilettes celebrate their 30th year of hockey, the focus continues to be on the development of female hockey players and introducing the game to female players. This year, the London Devilettes have taken on a new initiative, The First Shift Program. The First Shift, a new ‘learn-to-play’ program, allows kids to easily try the sport in a convenient, affordable and fun way. This six-week program is for kids aged 6-10 who have never played. The cost is only $199, which includes enrollment and head-to-toe Bauer equipment. Bauer Hockey will be on-site to provide important education and expertly fit the kids

with full gear. This enrolment also includes six on-ice sessions with trained instructors from within the organization. These six-week sessions will meet for one hour once per week, which keeps the commitment to a minimum and allows for participation in other activities. The program is offered exclusively to those who have never played organized hockey. “The London Devilettes, along with Bauer Hockey and Hockey Canada, are extremely excited to host this program in London,” said Steve Milne, the London Devilettes’ sponsorship director. “For years we have been growing our female membership by

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finding ways to welcome new families to the sport. This provides a new option in a fun, convenient and affordable way. Our goal is to introduce the game to those families who may not necessarily have had the inspiration to play due to cost or the fact that they have never played before. Ultimately, we hope these girls continue to play in our house league programs after graduating from the First Shift Program.” Parents and kids can learn more about the program and sign up at www.TheFirstShift.ca, or at www.londondevilettes.ca.

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Chiefs get Progressive touch Submitted by Progressive Hockey Development (PHD) As the sun sets on another southern teams and organizations for the upcomOntario summer, ing season. the soccer cleats “PHD is pleased to announce a PHD is and baseball development partnership with pleased to gear get packed announce a away and the Elgin Middlesex Chiefs Hockey development hockey seapartnership with teams this season.� son gets in full the minor atom swing. Progressive Hockey Development and major peewee Elgin Middlesex Chiefs is excited to be working with so many AAA Hockey teams this season. The

opportunity to work with these teams of highlyskilled, hard working players is going to be a lot of fun. Our program will consist of skating progressions, both with and without the puck, heads up play, puck movement, puck possession, skills, speed as an offensive weapon, shooting, offensive zone play, small area skills and game play, goalie development and more ... Our team of instructors will challenge these players to use these new skills in game-like settings, making them easily transferable for actual game play. For more information on team packages, see progressiveHD.com or contact us at progressivehockeydevelopment@gmail.com.

Florida Panther and PHD Athlete Greg McKegg chats with PHD Goalies Brody Borszcz and Dylan Durno during a PHD on ice sessions in St. Thomas.

PHD Instructor Mark Ellis draws up the plan for the next drill with some of the Elgin Middlesex Minor Atom Chiefs.

www.progressivehd.com

The team of instructors at PHD will challenge the Chiefs players to use their newly-acquired skills in game-like settings, making them easily transferable when the games count.

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New faces in '16-17 Submitted by the London Nationals and photo by Derek Berg Photography With the start of the GOJHL season just around the corner, the London Nationals are looking to build on their success in 2015-2016. The Nationals finished the regular season in second place, 31-14-4-1. They played Strathroy, LaSalle, Leamington, and Stratford in the first four playoff rounds, winning each of those series. With a 4-2 series win against the Stratford Cullitons, the Nationals won the Bill Weir Trophy, and the title of Western Conference Champions. Their playoff run ended in the Sutherland Cup Final. The Nationals lost to a much older, and much more experienced team in Caledonia, but they did not go down without a fight. In the final

game of the series, Caledonia was given the toughest challenge of their season when the Nationals scored two goals late in the game to tie, and take the game to overtime. Now, with a new season approaching, the Nationals will have many fresh faces on the ice, with roughly half the team not returning. Among them will be Kyle Dawson, a Junior C standout from the Dresden Jr. Kings. This past season, he scored 21 goals and had 18 assists in 39 regular season games. Dawson was named the Great Lakes Junior C Rookie of the Year. The Nationals begin their season at home with two exhibition games against the Lambton Shores Predators and

the St. Thomas Stars, as well as playing host to the 2016 GOJHL Showcase, which will be held at the Western Fair District Sports Centre on the weekend of September 9-11. For more information about the 20162017 London Nationals’ season, visit our website at www.londonnationals.on.ca.

www.londonnationals.on.ca HOME SCHEDULE *7:30pm at Western Fair Sports Centre Fri, Sep 09 vs Kitchener* Sat, Sep 10 vs. Welland* Wed, Sep 21 va. Strathroy* Wed, Sep 28 vs. Chatham* Wed, Oct 05 vs. Sarnia* Wed, Oct 12 vs. St. Marys* Wed, Oct 19 vs. Leamington* Wed, Oct 26 vs. St. Thomas* Wed, Nov 02 vs. Lambton Shores* Wed, Nov 09vs. Strathroy* Wed, Nov 16 vs. Lambton Shores* Wed, Nov 23 vs. Chatham* Wed, Nov 30 vs. Sarnia* Wed, Dec 07 vs. St. Marys* Sat, Dec 10 vs. LaSalle* Wed, Dec 14 vs. Leamington* Sat, Dec 17 vs. LaSalle - 3:30 PM Wed, Jan 04 vs. Lambton Shores* Wed, Jan 11 vs. St. Marys* Wed, Jan 18 vs. St. Thomas* Wed, Jan 25 vs. Chatham* Wed, Feb 01 vs. Sarnia* Wed, Feb 08 vs. Leamington* Wed, Feb 15 vs. LaSalle* Mon, Feb 20 vs. St. Thomas - 2:30 PM Wed, Feb 22 vs. Strathroy*

Congratulations to the 2015-2016 - Western Conference Champions

Chiefs’ Minor Atoms have major talent

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By SportsXpress Team, contributions by Todd Smith The Minor Atom Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs AAA team is set for a big season. They may be just getting to know each other (on and off the ice), but coach Todd Smith says during tryouts he was pleasantly surprised at the level of skill his players have displayed already. And he’s looking forward to seeing what this group of 17 boys can accomplish over a full season in the Pavilion League of the Minor Hockey Alliance of Ontario. “This is by far the deepest team I have ever coached,” Smith said. “Our goaltending is unbelievably good, and coach-

able, and our defense is big and solid all the way through. Our forwards are highly skilled, and they all have the ability to score at any time.” Building chemistry is important, so it’s a boon to the Minor Atom squad that they have two tournaments in September. Smith says that playing with a team-first mentality is of the utmost importance for his team, and practices to date have been high tempo, high-paced affairs with a focus on team play. “We believe in building good character kids who are willing to sacrifice their

personal goals to help the team,” said Smith, who himself has played hockey in and around London his whole life, and who began coaching in Dorchester in 2006-07. “We will be guiding a very talented group of kids, and we want them to excel.” The ‘we’ Smith refers to is his deep coaching staff that includes D'Arcy Cox, Trevor Ladds, Mike Mullis, Craig Lawson, Dan Jenken, Frank Borszcz and Jamie Sutherland. And, of course, all the vol-

Detroit Red wings vs

Boston - Oct 9

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sportsfiles

Chiefs changes put focus on franchise By SportsXpress Team A new season will bring new changes in 2016-17 for the Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs, who compete in the Minor Hockey Alliance of Ontario. For starters, the organization, which includes teams from Minor Atom to Minor Midget and provides opportunities for young hockey players in the region to compete at the highest levels in Ontario, will sport a new look on the ice this year. Gone are the old style jerseys, to be replaced by brand new home and away uniforms, with some teams also wearing an alternate third jersey. The team is also adopting a new style

at the rink this season, adding new banners to go along with the new Bauer jerseys from Pete’s Sports in London. Player banners will be raised on Chiefs Day for the Chief alumni NHLers. Fourteen former Chiefs have made it to the NHL, and there are certainly more to come. Club president Craig Robinson says that’s a great source of pride for the organization, and helps to instill hard work in the current Chiefs players. “Chiefs Day is always an event filled with pride – from players and parents alike,” Robinson said. “Raising those banners for our former players who have

reached the NHL not only makes our current players feel proud to wear the Chiefs uniform, but I think it also gives them a competitive edge on the ice.” On the ice, Chiefs players will be in good hands, as the organization boasts a strong core coaching staff that will be bolstered by the addition of three new faces: Clarke Singer, the long-time coach of the Western Mustangs men’s hockey team; Rob Coutts, a former coach with the London Junior Knights; and Jason Clark, a former professional player and coach. The team also saw a shuffle at the board level, which included Dan Jenkin becoming the new vice president of the club. “We’re also bringing in experts over the first four months and having dedicated sessions for each age group,” Robinson said. “They’ll be on specialized skills. And goalie coaches will also be used. We think this will help Chiefs players continue to reach their goals and will make us an even stronger organization going forward.”

www.elginmiddlesexchiefs.com

2015/2016 Alliance Champions - Minor Atom Chiefs

unteers in the team’s parent group, who Smith says deserve thankyous for all that they do. The players hail from many different towns in Elgin Middlesex, including

Aylmer, Dorchester, Lambeth, Ilderton, St. Thomas, Mt Brydges and Strathroy. The club will be playing in four tournaments, and they’re welcoming Mike Ellis from Progressive Hockey Development

to help the team improve their skating skills. Meanwhile, Smith says he’d like his players to carry themselves off the ice as well as they do on it. “We also want them to excel in the community and represent the Chiefs in a positive manner, no matter where they are or what they’re doing,” he said. “We will ensure to provide them with great coaching, mentoring, and positive reinforcement whenever we can.” The team’s slogan? To play SMART, compete HARD and always RESPECT. “It's not what you do once in a while,” Smith says, “it's what you do day in and day out that makes the difference.”

The minor atom chiefs would like to thank all of their sponsors

Minor Atom Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs AAA Team: Front row (Left to right): Jamie DaSilva, Ben Funston, Noah Vandenberg, Jimmy Sutherland, Brody Borszcz, Matthew Koprowski, Cooper Mullis, Ty Lawson, Rhys Smart, Cooper Ilczyszyn. Back row: Carson Smith, Casey Bridgewater, Cameron Reid, Liam Ladds, Nicolas Glanville, Noah Jenken. Absent: Zander Kechego

Montreal - Nov 26 & Apr 8

www.linexlondon.com

Pittsburgh - Jan 14

Toronto - Jan 25 & Apr 1

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BHi Date Night - Coed League By SportsXpress Team Krista Smith has been playing ball hockey since 2010. She originally started playing indoors, but switched to Ball Hockey International’s co-ed once she heard of its existence. Now, she’s in her fourth year playing with her current team, FMC. The squad consists of friends, and Krista says it’s an all-around positive experience. “What makes our team so amazing is that we come to have fun,” Smith said. “Everyone passes to each other, the guys on the team set up our girls for goals… we do play to win, but not in a super competitive way.” Smith, whose team also plays in the Dave Richards co-ed tournament each year, says she looks forward to Friday nights when she grabs her gear and

heads out for some fun. “This is where I have a great time playing ball hockey, having some laughs, and spending time with friends,” Smith said. “I joined BHI to have fun, and my experience has always been a positive one.” Smith actually describes BHI as a family. “Everyone knows each other, and if someone new joins a team everyone helps to make them feel welcome,” she said. “We all share laughs together. It doesn’t matter what team you play for, or what skill level you are, we are all welcoming. “I’m looking forward to enjoying many more BHI seasons to come!”

Krista Smith is in her third year with her current team, FMC. Front row (left to right): Brandon, Goalie Brad, Chad. Back row: Krista, Terry, Landon, John, Sue, and Kristy.

london.ballhockeyinternational.ca

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Boston - Oct 9

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teamprofiles

Knights begin journey to back-to-back Cups By Tracy Comer The 2016-2017 OHL season kicks off on September 21, and the London Knights are looking to repeat their success from last season, which ended with the team hoisting the MasterCard Memorial Cup in Red Deer. The Knights capped off the season with a successful NHL Entry Draft that saw seven players selected. Of the seven

players selected, three were first rounddraft picks; Olli Juolevi going to the

not returning this season is assistant captain Aiden Jamieson, who was traded to the Sudbury Wolves at the end of June. The status of Mitchell Marner, Matthew Tkachuk and Olli Juolevi remains uncertain as the players look to earn a spot on their respective NHL rosters. Despite the turnover, the Knights are looking forward to seeing a number of fresh faces in the lineup this season. First-round OHL draft pick Liam Foudy (2016) is among those players. Joining Foudy is London’s fourth-round pick from the 2015 OHL draft, Ian Blacker. Also new to the team is Finnish forward Janne Kuokkanen, who was selected 52nd overall in the CHL Import Draft this year. The Knights begin their season on the road when they take on the Sarnia Sting on September 21. They’ll then return to London for their home opener on September 23 with a playoff rematch against the Erie Otters.

“The Knights capped off the season with a successful NHL Entry Draft that saw seven players selected.”

Canucks, fifth overall; Matthew Tkachuk to the Flames with the sixth overall pick; and Max Jones selected 24th overall by the Anaheim Ducks. With a new season comes a number of roster changes. Knights scoring leader Christian Dvorak will be making his way to Arizona to begin his professional career. Also leaving the team are overage players Jacob Graves, Aaron Berisha and Brendan Burke. Graves will be joining the Lake Erie Monsters, the AHL affiliate of the Columbus Blue Jackets, while Berisha will be skating Matthew Tkachuk’s status is up in the air, as the youngster is vying for a spot on his NHL team, with the Bridgeport but the London Knights have brought in several new faces in their efforts to repeat as Memorial Cup champs in 2016-2017. Sound Tigers. Also

Montreal - Nov 26 & Apr 8

www.londonknights.com

Pittsburgh - Jan 14

Toronto - Jan 25 & Apr 1

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Climbing past life’s obstacles Submitted by Junction Climbing Centre At the Junction, we have a climbing team made up of kids from across the city. It's a special group, training and climbing together as one, regardless of age, ability, or gender. Over the two years since the Junction has opened, they've made great strides, moving from novices to competing at the provincial level. We’re proud of all of the kids on our team, and we thought we'd use this chance to share one of their stories. Emily Beaumont has been a member since before we even opened, and the day our Youth Climbing team started she joined. Emily trained hard each week, working her way up the difficulty grades on ropes and boulders. A few months ago, she awoke with what appeared to be the flu...but it quickly escalated into delirium and breathing problems. A rushed trip to the hospital ended with a stay in the Pediatric Critical Care Unit and a Type 1 diabetes

diagnosis. Emily has let none if this set her back. Even with daily blood tests, injections, and diet monitoring, she's put even more effort into her training, both with the team and on her own time. She's competing harder than ever, missing the Ontario Climbing Federation’s Provincial Championship semifinals by just one place. She did the Telus Walk to Cure Diabetes this year as part of her stand against this disease. She is a planking machine, holding the pose for longer than anyone else on the team (including the much older kids that she trains with). She has even started lead climbing, an advanced climbing skill. Above all else, Emily is a great kid to have on the team. She is cheerful, hardworking, and puts her full effort in every time. We're so proud of the work she has

Helping kids ‘Rock Back to School’

Emily Beaumont hasn’t let a Type 1 diabetes diagnosis slow her down. In fact, despite daily blood tests, injections and diet monitoring, the youngster is becoming a more talented climber every day.

done in becoming an awesome person and awesome climber. If you think your child might be interested in climbing, you can come down to the gym anytime to try it. Waivers are required, and for anyone under 18 the waiver must be signed by a parent. We also have a weekly kids club starting up that is a great way to introduce kids to climbing. Information on this and all of our programs can be found at www. junctionclimbing.com.

www.junctionclimbing.com Proudly sponsored by

Submitted by Preferred Insurance It’s a great story of teamwork and partnership to make a huge community impact. Preferred Insurance joined the ‘Rock Back to School’ program again for 2016 with partner Classic Rock, FREE 98.1FM, and invited business partners to help meet a lofty goal of 100 backpacks loaded with school supplies. With great partners joining the mis-

sion and their generosity, the goal was surpassed again in 2016 with a total of 110 loaded backpacks. That brings the 4-year total for Preferred Insurance and partners to 362 backpacks full of school supplies for children in need. Thanks to a bulk discount purchase offer from partner Real Canadian Superstore - Oakridge, the total value of these school supplies

far exceeds the funds committed. They are distributed by program partners The Salvation Army and The Thames Valley Education Foundation. As a special bonus part of the program, Preferred Insurance hosts a special day at their office where they invite participating partners for lunch, complete with special guests and a Live On-Location broadcast with radio partner Classic Rock, FREE 98.1FM to acknowledge and celebrate their joint achievement and success. Preferred Insurance is truly grateful for the following Rock Back to School Program Partners in 2016:

Along with great partners, Preferred Insurance provided 110 backpacks loaded with school supplies as part of this year’s ‘Rock Back to School’ program for local students. The four-year total is now at 362 backpacks.

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FRONT OF THE LINE! WED.,THURS. FRI. & SAT. ONLY*

First 30 Customers get a FREE $25 Gift Card. Next 30 Customers get a FREE $20 Gift Card. Next 30 Customers get a FREE Gift *Minimum purchase may apply Winter Coats, Insulated Pants, Athletic Footwear, Remote Control Devices, Fitness Wear, Fleece Hoodies, Tee Shirts, Team Hats, Basketballs, Footballs, Athletic Bags, Rackets, Soccer Gear Toques, Gloves, Socks, Games, Athletic and Casual Clothing, Sample Shoes, Roller Pads, Weights, Fitness Equipment and much more!! Over 20 top brands to choose from.

5 DAYS ONLY! Wednesday September 28th – 9:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Thursday September 29th – 9:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Friday September 30th – 9:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m Saturday October 1st – 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Sunday October 2nd – 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

BMO CENTRE LONDON SALE 295 RECTORY ST, LONDON London_ad.indd 1 SXP_Z02_London_16SO.indd 64

BLOW-OUT SALE BONUS BUCKS One Coupon per Family per visit on Minimum Purchase of $60. Valid Sept. 28–Oct.2, 2016 at the BMO Centre London Sale

SAVE $ 5.00

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