Hockey Edmonton Magazine Winter Edition 2023

ThankYou!

10618 124 Street Edmonton, AB T5N 1S3

Ph: (780) 413-3498 • Fax: (780) 440-6475 www.hockeyedmonton.ca

Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week is played on traditional land in Treaty Six Territory. We would like to thank the diverse Indigenous Peoples whose ancestors’ footsteps have marked this territory for centuries.

HOCKEY EDMONTON | EXECUTIVES

President: Will Jang

1st VP: Tomiko McCall

2nd VP: Carlos Vieira

Director Elite Hockey: Alec Card

Director Community Hockey: John Putters

Treasurer: Peter Gouveia

Director at Large: Bruce Wright

Director at Large: Karen Hiscock

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

SE District: Brad Butterfield

SW District: Trevor Elliott

NW District: Pauline Hughes

NE District: Dylan Thomas

KC Federation: Paul Brown

EGHA: April MacKinnon

CAC: Rick McAdie

MLAC: Neil Brown

KC: Bruce Fitzpatrick

SSAC: Ted Boomer

EFAC: Howie Draper

STAFF

Office Manager: Sharlene Cook

Technical Director: Joel Lenius

Marketing & Communications: Kylee Quinn

Registrar: Glenn Sommerville

Ice Allocator: Ray Vigneau

Message From

Hockey Edmonton

January, in the midst of winter, win or lose, teams will create memories from minor hockey week. Whatever the outcome, it’s a celebratory occasion for all to cherish the game.

It is indeed a pleasure and privilege to host the 2023 Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week (QEMHW)! Not that long ago, this occasion was sidelined by COVID-19. Last year’s return managed to have the vast majority of teams play through any adversity with teams and games reshuffled.

Considering the past couple of years, we now have a much greater appreciation for the game than ever before. We are blessed watching the kids skating on the ice, competing and having fun. QEMHW takes this sentiment to a whole new level. For many teams, minor hockey week is the highlight of their season. There’s nothing quite like getting on a run during minor hockey week for the underdog, average and top teams.

Regardless of the outcome, the goal for everyone is to have fun over the next 10 days. Many thanks to the thousands of people who help to make this happen – players, parents, families, referees, rink managers, volunteers, staff and sponsors all collaborating and working together to create this incredible event.

Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week – it’s our tradition!

Yours in Hockey, Will Jang

President Hockey Edmonton

Message From Hockey Edmonton Alumni

As one of the world’s largest minor hockey tournaments with a remarkable 59 years of history, being a part of Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week has undoubtedly become a special tradition in our city’s hockey community.

Congratulations to all of the players and coaches for your hardwork and sportsmanship. We have an abundance of gratitude towards our volunteers, especially our terrific on-ice officials for the time you are contributing to this event.

Finally, a heartfelt thank you goes out to all family members, who simultaneously perform the role of supporter, mentor, cheerleader, and personal Uber driver for all of our minor hockey athletes. Each and every one of you are a part of the legacy of this event and make up our Hockey Edmonton family.

Sincerely, Hockey Edmonton Alumni

This year marks the 59th anniversary of Edmonton Minor Hockey Week, for which Quikcard has been the title sponsor for the past 22 years!

This tournament has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest minor hockey tournament in the world. An event this large could not happen without the tireless work of volunteers, which is true of its very beginning, and just as true today. This includes the organizers, schedulemakers, scorekeepers, coaches, team managers, etc. who donate their time and effort for the benefit of the kids who participate in this tournament.

Officials also participate in Minor Hockey Week, and they donate their time in doing so. The value of their donated time works out to over $40,000, which is a huge commitment, something we should remember when we see them on the ice. This is an important reminder for all those who participate, whether you are a player, coach or a fan watching the game.

In this edition of the magazine, we have included some great photos taken at previous years’ events. You can see how proud and excited the players are, especially when they win a gold medal at this event.

Win or lose, the common theme is to make this tournament special for the players, one they will remember for years to come.

To the players, we extend our best wishes! Memories of a lifetime will come to many who play hockey during Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week. As parents, family members and friends cheer you on, give it your best, and above all, have fun!

McDonald’s is the official coffee of Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week.

Message from His Worship Mayor Amarjeet Sohi

On behalf of City Council and the people of Edmonton, welcome to the 59th Annual Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week!

I’m thrilled to see the return of this classic Edmonton event. Since 1964, this annual tournament has offered young Edmontonians the chance to connect with their teammates and show off their hard-earned skills.

Throughout the decades, hockey has become a defining part of our city’s identity and culture. Whether you’re a kid dreaming of joining the Oilers when you grow up, a parent cheering on your child’s success, or simply a lifelong fan of the sport, hockey has the special ability to bring our community together to celebrate sportsmanship and achievement. In hockey, we are united as one community.

I thank Hockey Edmonton for bringing this exciting tournament back after such a challenging time. I’m also grateful to the thousands of volunteers, sponsors, players, coaches, referees and families coming together to share in the joy of this event.

Best of luck to all the athletes!

Message from The Premier of Alberta

On behalf of the Government of Alberta, it is my pleasure to welcome everyone to Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week.

After its first-ever year off, I’m delighted to see Minor Hockey Week return to Edmonton. Hockey not only contributes to a healthy lifestyle, it also helps players learn the value of teamwork, dedication, and leadership. Developing these skills on the ice contributes to lifelong self-confidence and success outside of the arena. Games and tournaments also provide an excellent opportunity for teams, families, and communities to connect in the pursuit of common goals with the get ‘er done spirit for which Alberta is renowned.

I want to thank all the coaches, volunteers, sponsors, and families who help build strong, healthy communities by making Edmonton Minor Hockey Week an annual reality.

Best wishes, also, to all the players taking part in this year’s tournament.

You’ve practiced tirelessly to be the best you can be— now it’s time to dream big and play hard!

Amarjeet Sohi

MAYOR OF THE CITY OF EDMONTON

Message From The Message From The

QEMHW Chairperson QEMHW Honourary Chairperson

I am very honoured to be the chairperson for the 59th annual Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week.

An event of this magnitude would not be possible without the help of many people. To the volunteers on the committee, both new and old, Ray Vigneau, Kylee Quinn, Sharlene Cook, Brenda Davidson, and Heather Seutter: without the time you have dedicated to volunteering, we would not be able to make the event as successful as it is.

Next, a huge thank you to all the referees who volunteer their entire time for this event. Your contributions to the event are so appreciated. If you get a chance, please take the time to show your appreciation to our referees during the event after your games.

Another group of volunteers so worthy of recognition are our arena managers. For the 10 days of the event, they are managing the logistics at the arenas, getting game sheets filled out, making sure the referees arrive, selling buttons, keeping scores updated, making sure the rules are in the timekeepers’ box, and many other seemingly small tasks that are in fact crucial details necessary to make the event run smoothly. We thank you for the dedication to QEMHW.

Thank you to our corporate sponsors for their continued support: Quikcard, McDonald’s, the Edmonton Oilers, the Edmonton Oil Kings, Elite Promotional Marketing, Hockey Edmonton Alumni, our referees, Serdachny Powerskating & Hockey, St. Thomas More, and Donnan & Vimy Hockey.

On behalf of the committee and Hockey Edmonton, I invite you to come out and enjoy the greatest 10 days of minor hockey with your friends and family!

Minor Hockey week in Edmonton was first played in 1964 and for almost six decades has provided hockey players and families with memories that last a lifetime. Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week would not be possible without the past and current volunteers who put in untold hours to make it happen. Whether it is the coaches working with the kids on the ice, managers who plan team events, referees officiating the games or executive members who provide the framework; all are indispensable in making this event a reality.

For many players, this event marks the high point of their minor hockey season providing some of the most memorable moments of the year or maybe even of their hockey playing careers.

I have had the great good fortune to be involved in hockey since 1959, when I began coaching with the Bellevue Community League. Being involved as a coach, ice allocator, and administrator over the last 63 years has had a huge impact on me. I believe that hockey teaches the values of fairness, teamwork, discipline and respect to all who participate. I watched all the players I was involved with, including my own three children, grow both as players and citizens of the community. This great game can lead us all to become better people.

Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week epitomizes this. We get to see thousands of players, their families and volunteers come together to celebrate the hard work, skill and sportsmanship of our young hockey players.

Thank you to all the volunteers who work to make this tournament a rewarding experience for every player. Thank you to all the players who give it their all each and every game. I look forward to making new friendships and creating new memories as honourary chair for the QEMHW tournament 2023.

Sincerely, Crystal Feader Chairperson, Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week

Sincerely, Jack Laurie Honourary Chairperson, Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week

1.1

GENERAL RULES

RULES

1.3 1.2

Every player dressed must play at least twice in every period during regulation play, with the exception of goalkeepers. If the team has two goalkeepers, each one must play at least one period in each game. No warm ups for incoming goalkeepers. Coaches and managers failing to comply with the above rule will be dealt with by the Discipline Chairperson.

The Tournament Arena Manager is in charge of the arena and his or her decision is final.

Time clocks shall start at the listed game time. Any team not on the ice and ready to play within five (5) minutes of the listed time may be disqualified. The Arena Manager shall be the judge of this action.

REGULATIONS

2.3 (a) Every player competing in the games sanctioned by HA and its MHAs shall be a member of a hockey team registered with HA and shall, prior to competing in their first league game, be duly registered in the registry.

2.3 (b) In addition to the current information required for registration a player movement form must be submitted to the zone minor administration coordinator for each nonresident player at the time of registration.

Hockey Canada Minimum Suspension RULE # 2.3 INFRACTION: Ineligible Players / Team Officials: Team official who is party to or had knowledge of playing a player not properly registered with that team or properly affiliated to that team and/or allowing a team official who is not properly registered to that team to participate on the bench. Team official who is party to or had knowledge of playing a player or allows a team official to participate on the bench who is under suspension.

1.4

If, in the Arena Manager’s opinion, a uniform change is required, the home team shall make the change. Note: It would be advisable that the Team Managers confer before the game to ensure that no game time will be lost during the necessary sweater change.

1.5 1.6 1.7

All Hockey Edmonton and EFHL Rules and Regulations are in effect during QEMHW. They count as regular league games for the purpose of determining the number of games a player/coach/manager or trainer will sit out. Suspensions incurred in Minor Hockey Week will carry over into league play if not fully served in QEMHW.

In the event referees do not arrive, the below rule will apply: Rule 41-K, Page 74, Canadian Hockey Association Official Rule Book: If for whatever reason, the ref or linesman appointed is prevented from appearing, the managers or coaches of the two (2) competing clubs shall agree on a referee and one (1) or two (2) linesmen. If they are unable to agree, they shall appoint a player from each team who shall act as officials.

In case of dispute, the decision of the QEMHW Chairperson or their designate is final. There are no appeals during QEMHW.

TEAM REGISTRATION

Coaches must be in possession of their approved HCR team roster and able to present to the arena manager at their request (it’s recommended that associations issue updated HCR team rosters - paper/electronic - to all teams no later than the week prior to the start of QEMHW play).

All players registered on the team must be named on the game sheet and those not dressed shall be noted appropriately with an explanation of why they are not dressed.

If a team arrives at the arena without their HCR team roster or with a roster that does not have all participants duly noted, an official HCR team roster must be produced by the team or an association executive prior to the end of regulation time of said game or the issue will be passed on to discipline and dealt with according to the below regulation.

2.5

AFFILIATE PLAYERS ARE NOT ALLOWED, with the exception being of goalies. If an affiliated goaltender is not available, the Hockey Alberta Substitute Goaltender process is to be used (just as in league play).

Approved players and bench staff names must be legibly printed (or have a sticker affixed) to the game sheet by the designated team official. Players are NOT required to sign the game sheet during QEMHW. A person who is an approved HCR bench staff must sign the game sheet.

2.6

In the event a team does not show for their game, the coach will be subject to disciplinary action. The offending team will forfeit the game.

REGULATION TIME

3.1

Duration of games will be posted on draw sheets at each arena. The arena manager is responsible for advising game officials of the games duration. Games will be straight time. The last two (2) minutes shall be stop time unless there is a goal spread of five (5) goals or more then it will be straight time. Game time will run the duration, no matter what.

3.3 3.2

2.4 2.1

3.4

FINALS – last five (5) minutes will be stop time unless there is a five (5) goal spread or more, then it will be straight time.

The referees may assess a two (2) minute bench minor penalty for delay of game if they feel the coaching staff is using up time by deliberately slowing down the line changes. This rule applies to both straight and stop time. The clock will not stop for any reason (injury or otherwise) once the opening face-off has taken place (exception being rules 3.1 & 3.2).

All minor penalties are two (2) minutes of straight time and the penalty will begin at the drop of the puck. All major penalties are 5 minutes straight time and the penalty will begin at the drop of the puck. All misconducts will be 10 minutes straight time and the penalty will begin at the drop of the puck. Any portion of a penalty not served during straight time will be completed as a stop time penalty.

3.5

3.6

In case of a tie at the end of regulation play, overtime will be played. Play will continue until the first goal is scored, which will terminate the game, and the team scoring the goal will be the winner.

No timeouts may be called by a coach or player during regulation time.

4.1

OVERTIME

Overtime is played to sudden victory. Teams may remove goalkeepers at any time. Teams may change “on the fly” at any time. To commence overtime, each team will place six (6) players (one may be a goaltender) on the ice on the ice for the face-off at centre ice. The teams will not change ends for the overtime period and the time clock will be set for one (1) minute.

OVERTIME SHALL BE STOP TIME.

Overtime will be played in one (1) minute increments. At the end of one (1) minute, the horn will sound and each team will remove one (1) player from the ice. Play will resume immediately at the closest face-off spot. The timekeeper will stop the clock and sound the horn after each minute until the teams are reduced to two (2) players (one may be a goaltender) on the ice. Game time will run the duration, no matter what.

Once each team has been reduced to two (2) players, the clock will be set to six (6) minutes. To commence play, the face-off will be held at the closest face-off spot. There will be no further reductions to the number of players and the one minute periods will end. Time will continue until the six (6) minute period has expired. If still tied at the end of the six (6) minute period, ten (10) minute periods will be played with two (2) players (one may be a goaltender) until a winner is determined. To commence play in the ten (10) minute period, the face-off will be held at the centre face-off spot.

No timeouts may be called by a coach or player in overtime.

PENALTIES

All minor penalties are two (2) minutes of straight time and the penalty will begin at the drop of the puck. All major penalties are five minutes straight time and the penalty will begin at the drop of the puck. All misconducts will be ten minutes straight time and the penalty will begin at the drop of the puck.

Penalties incurred in regulation time and not completely served in regulation time shall carry over into the overtime period (as a stop time penalty) and will be completed in overtime unless the game is ended.

Penalties incurred during overtime should be handled as stated below:

• Should each team have an unexpired time penalty when teams are reduced to two (2) players (including the goaltender), a penalty shot(s) will be awarded to each team. The team with the least time to serve will shoot first. Each team must be provided their shot. If the teams are still tied, overtime will continue.

• All time penalties incurred with two (2) players (including goaltenders) on the ice shall result in the awarding of penalty shot(s) in lieu of penalty times.

• If the game is still tied after period 7, Period 8 will begin with the clock set at 6:00 with the face-off at the closest face-off spot and will be played with two (2) players (including goaltenders) until a winner is determined.

• If the game is still tied after period 8, Period 9 will begin with the clock set at 10:00 with face-off at centre ice and will be played with two (2) players (including goaltenders) until a winner is determined.

U9 HOCKEY

Game formats and protocols align with Hockey Canada’s new program.

• Rink dividers: Half-ice divider systems setup across centre-ice line;

• Game format: 4 vs. 4 plus goalie, 3-minute warm-up, TWO 24-minute game halves;

• Puck: Blue Pucks only (4 oz.);

• Scorekeeping: No scorekeeping, no standings, no statistics;

• Face-offs: Start of game and second half;

• Off-side & icing: None;

• Goaltender freezes puck: offending team backs off and goalie gives puck to a teammate to resume play;

• Goal is scored: scoring team backs off, goalie pulls puck out of net, resume play;

• U9 shift length: 1.5 minutes; buzzer is set to 1.5 min intervals, on buzzer players leave puck, go to bench and new players enter the ice and continue to play;

• Penalties:  Offending player misses next shift, team still plays full strength. Major, match and misconduct infractions must be recorded on the game report.

• At no time will a team be required to have less than two (2) players (including the goaltender) on the ice.

• If due to penalties, a team is reduced to two (2) players (including the goaltender) and another time penalty is incurred, the offending team will serve the most recent penalty and a penalty shot(s) will be awarded to the nonoffending team for each unexpired penalty.

QUIKCARD MINOR Memories From

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY HOCKEY EDMONTON

EDMONTON HOCKEY WEEK2022

QUIKCARD EDMONTON MINOR HOCKEY WEEK

SPONSORS magical

make the world’s largest tournament

By Shari Narine

It was fortuitous, says Lyle Best, that Quikcard was in the right place when Hockey Edmonton was about to start its search for a new title sponsor for Edmonton minor hockey week.

“The (other title sponsor) had given it up. One of our friends gave us the tip off it was happening,” said Best.

And the rest, as they say, is 22 years of history. With at least five more to come because Quikcard just signed on for another five years. No second thought was given to the commitment, Best adds, and Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week (QEMHW) goes on.

Ray Vigneau, long time volunteer with Hockey Edmonton, says he’s more than pleased with the ease at which Quikcard and other corporate sponsors keep signing on the dotted line for the annual event, which celebrates 60 years in 2024.

“With sponsoring of minor hockey week, it’s always a feel-good thing for companies. It’s one of those things, that they say, ‘This is what we’re doing for the community,’ and it’s an event that has this huge magnitude. And you know they want to be there and they want to be recognized,” said Vigneau.

Best says minor hockey week lines up with his company’s family values.

“Over the years, we’ve done so many things in the community and across the country, but one thing people keep coming up to me about at various times of the year, ‘My grandson played Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week or my son did or I did.’ A lot of these kids, it’s the biggest tournament they’ll ever be in in their lives,” said Best.

Vigneau agrees that the generational impact of the event is second to none and that’s what keeps the 10 days of hockey action both unique and special.

“The biggest positive that I’ve always heard over the years is just how important it is because the moms and dads have played in minor hockey week over the years. It’s that history. That it’s important,” said Vigneau.

Corporate sponsorship is a big part of keeping QEMHW going.

“The amounts of the sponsorship we have has gone up over the years. Sponsors have come and sponsors have gone,” said Vigneau.

Those who pull out, he adds, is because their financial situations have changed forcing them to make tough decisions.

Another corporate sponsor of the event is McDonald’s, which has been involved with QEMHW for 20 years.

There’s a “sense of pride” in supporting the event, says Joseph Gebran, of McDonald’s.

“We’re always proud to give back and be a part of the communities we serve,” he said.

“Not only is it financial sponsorship, but McDonald’s gives coupons. All of that goes to the kids so that’s a tangible benefit for the kids,” said Vigneau.

Gebran says that along with their sponsorship fee, they provide over 15,000 complimentary meals and beverages to players, coaches and referees.

Another corporate sponsor is Elite Promotional Marketing. The company has been involved for 35 years.

“We like to support local athletes and the local hockey community for the love of the sport and how it brings the community together,” said Keenan Oatway, who’s the communications and graphics coordinator with Elite. Oatway adds that it’s always nice to see “the merch and swag be used and loved for years afterwards.”

QEMHW also gets support from the major sports organizations in the city, such as the Edmonton Oilers and the Edmonton Oil Kings.

“With the history of the tournament and the amount of local players that participate, joining as a sponsor was an easy decision on our end,” said Patrick Garland, of the Oilers.

“Hockey Edmonton is a key partner of ours and we want to continue to strengthen that relationship and make the minor hockey system stronger in our community,” he said.

The Edmonton Oilers have been lending their support to the event for at least the past 10 years.

“We’re happy to continue to support minor hockey week to ensure the storied tournament continues to have a positive impact on the youth playing hockey in Oil Country,” said Garland.

“It’s such an incredible tournament that provides young players the opportunity to play in one of the biggest tournaments in the world,” he added.

Also providing sponsorship support are Serdachny Hockey, and the hockey academies of St. Thomas More and Donnan/Vimy.

And not to be forgotten, says Vigneau, are all the referees and lines officials who give their time for free to work the games, all the way from the first games to the exciting playoff games.

All the sponsorship helped QEMHW be awarded the Guinness World Records title for the largest ice hockey tournament in the world.

The support has allowed the tournament to grow and keep costs down, says Vigneau, and make the event extra special.

“Without that sponsorship, it would cost the parents, teams more money to participate in the event. Would we be able to give the prizes, medals, scholarships that we do without that sponsorship? Probably not,” said Vigneau.

With QEMHW to celebrate 60 years in 2024 (a year late because the coronavirus pandemic forced the cancellation in 2021), Vigneau says Hockey Edmonton will be recognizing the sponsors in a special way for their support.

Without that support, he says, QEMHW wouldn’t hold the spot is does. “It’s the history and the excitement and the other thing we often hear and we often say ourselves, ‘Winning minor hockey week is the pinnacle of the year,’” Vigneau said. “It’s huge. It’s something that people cherish for years.”

With the sponsoring of minor hockey week, it’s always a feelgood thing for companies. It’s one of those things, that they say, ‘This is what we’re doing for the community,’ and it’s an event that has this huge magnitude.

TWINS WIN GOLD AT QUIKCARD EDMONTON MINOR HOCKEY WEEK 2022

It’s not unusual for two siblings (or more) to win a gold medal at Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week in the same year, but in last year’s tournament, we had twin brothers each winning gold, and with two different teams. Cash Maksym, featured on the cover of this edition of the Hockey Edmonton Magazine, started hockey as a forward in 2017, and his brother Heath joined him in 2018, both playing defense. In the 2019-20 season, Cash switched to playing full-time as a goalie. (Cash has always been the only goalie on a team so gets plenty of ice time each season.)

2022-23 team: U15-4 Warriors

Favourite team: Edmonton Oilers

Favourite players: Darnell Nurse

Hockey role model: Ray Bourque because he’s Canadian and was an amazing defenseman.

Favourite memory from MHW: When my team won gold, we all threw our gloves and sticks in celebration.

Other favourite hockey memories: Scoring my first goal at a tournament in Jasper. And also, my first time in the penalty box for boarding.

2021-22 team: U13-2

Favourite Team: Edmonton Oilers and Minnesota Wild

Beaumont Braves FEATURED ON

Favourite goalies: Marc-André Fleury and Stuart Skinner

Hockey role models: Marc-André Fleury for his sense of humour, and showing that you can have fun while playing the game & Stuart Skinner for proving to people how well he can play his position all while not letting critics bring him down.

Favourite memory from MHW: My epic save by diving across the crease, Fleury style, stopping the puck and denying the goal.

MAKSYM

Tyler Palmowski

Tyler Palmowski

TylerPalmowski started to play hockey at the age of 5, and his love and passion for the game grew ever since. He was always the first one on the ice and the last one off. He wasn’t the fastest skater but he knew how to read the play and always seemed to be in the right spot at the right time. Hockey was his passion, not only playing it, but watching his favourite team, the Edmonton Oilers. He would try to attend any games he could or watch them on TV. Tyler was able to obtain a very impressive collection of signed jerseys, memorabilia, meeting the players and lasting memories from his favourite team.

In 2015, at the age of 8, Tyler was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a brain tumour. He underwent multiple surgeries, proton radiation, a year of chemotherapy, numerous hospital stays, blood transfusions, countless pokes, MRIs, and many other tests. Not only did he relearn to skate but also walk, he wanted to be back on the ice as soon as possible. Tyler started playing hockey again and even helped coach his younger brothers Timbit’s team. He loved teaching all the little ones how to skate and pass the puck, especially his brother. He was able to successfully beat cancer and start enjoying his childhood again. Then in March of 2020, our world came to a standstill whenTyler was diagnosed with DIPG or diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma at the age of 12. DIPG is a terminal childhood brain cancer with an average life expectancy of only nine months. This tumour has been known for over 60 years with no research here in Canada, no new treatments or cure and still has a zero percent survival rate.

We were told by our doctors to go home and make memories with our son. After we were given this unimaginable diagnosis, we started a bucket list with everything Tyler wanted to do. Our family was determined to create lasting memories, while searching for clinical trials to battle this beast. We were not giving up on our son. Every night while Tyler slept, we stayed awake researching experimental treatments and clinical trials all across the world. We were determined to find a cure and save our son. At the same time, COVID was beginning to gain ground and unfortunately this hindered many of our efforts. Many, if not all, of the clinical trials were closed to international patients because of COVID. We were able to secure a new experimental drug from Germany, but unfortunately after three months of usage, this drug did not seem to work for our son. After a courageous nine month battle, Tyler passed away in our arms on November 24, 2020 at the tender age of 13. Our world fell apart and can never be put back together.

Tyler showed the true meaning of sportsmanship. He showed respect on and off the ice.

In 2016, Tyler was the Kids with Cancer Society representative for the Hockey Fights Cancer night. He dropped the puck at the Oilers vs Washington game, where he was able to shake hands with Ovechkin and McDavid on the ice.

Memorial Cup

Tyler touched so many people during his short 13-year life. We have received messages from across the world of people who have heard of his story and have told us how he has changed so many people’s lives. His brother and sister look at him as a role model and continue to carry his legacy. Tyler’s legacy lives on through all those who knew him personally and/or through his story. Tyler’s life was one of strength, perseverance and faith. His bravery showed the world, you can do anything you put your mind to and while you do that, you can still bring so much good into this world while facing so many hardships.

Hockey was only one of Tyler’s passions. Another enjoyment in life he had was fishing. He could spend an entire day on the lake with his rod in the water. If it was a busy day or slow day, he would just sit there and enjoy every moment. He was a very patient fisherman and his knowledge was remarkable. Tyler introduced so many family and friends to this fun outdoor activity. His passion and wisdom allowed others to enjoy and take up the same hobby.

Tyler had a deep love of airplanes and flying. He wanted to be a pilot when he was older. Tyler was fortunate enough to fly a few airplanes and experience what a pilot does thanks to several strangers that stepped up to fulfill his bucket list.

Tyler was an old soul. You could sit down with him and have a very intellectual conversation. He did well in school and loved all of his friends. Tyler would always protect his friends, family, and even other children when he witnessed them being bullied. He had no fear to step in and protect them. He had the sweetest and kindest heart any 13-yearold boy could have. He believed so strongly that everyone deserved to be treated with respect and could be included.

On December 28, 2022, the Braves Junior C hockey team hosted the second annual Tyler Palmowski Memorial Hockey Game in memory of our beloved boy. This memorial game started last year; one year after Tyler passed away. Rob Ballantyne, head coach of the Brave’s Junior C hockey team, wanted to start something special for the Palmowski family and their incredible son who lived for hockey. The St. Albert Comets Junior C team was also on board to participate in the memorial game and have continued that participation and dedication this year in honour of Tyler.

Our family is humbled and honoured to be able to present the Tyler Palmowski Memorial Cup. We want to thank the Braves organization for making this possible, especially Rob Ballantyne, John Perri and George Gilbeau.

This years tournament raised over $2000 for Brain Cancer Canada DIPG research. If you would like to donate, please scan the QR code here.

The Stars Aligned

EDMONTON OILERS and three hometown boys played for the

By Shari Narine

On Nov. 30, 2022, three Edmonton-raised young men stepped onto the ice at Roger’s Place, all dressed in Oilers’ jerseys.

“It was just extremely special,” said James Hamblin, 23, the last of the three to crack the Edmonton Oilers’ roster and play in the National Hockey League.

Hamblin joined goaltender Stuart Skinner (24) and left winger Tyler Benson (24) for the only game the three would play together.

Benson has played “parts of three seasons” for the Oilers, while Skinner is in his second season with the team, already starting more games this season (21 at deadline time) than he did the previous season (13).

“It’s pretty crazy,” said Benson. “I mean to…do it on the same team, your hometown?”

“It’s pretty cool that all three of us are from Edmonton. We’ve all trained together through many, many years,” said Skinner. “And now all three of us are on the same NHL team and we played in the same game, it’s very special.”

They may have ended up on the same sheet of ice playing the Chicago Blackhawks, but they’ve all taken different paths.

Tyler Benson

Benson was the first of the three to sign a contract with the Oilers. He was drafted in 2016 by Edmonton, selected 32nd overall in the second round.

In March 2012, Benson was the young phenom turning heads. He was large, skilled and dominating older boys in bantam hockey. He was being called the next Connor McDavid. Benson was the first overall pick in the Western Hockey League (WHL) bantam draft, taken by the Vancouver Giants. In 2013, he was the topic of a TSN panel discussion during an Oilers and San Jose Sharks game, having a record-setting season in the Alberta Major Bantam Hockey League (AMBHL).

At one point Benson was expected to be a first-round draft pick in the NHL, slotted in the top 10 to 15. But that was before the injuries set in and his play was greatly curtailed.

“I think if I was able to play the full year (with the Giants) and prove myself, things could have changed. Not playing a lot of games, I don’t think helped me. But being taken by Edmonton, I can’t complain about that either. I was pretty happy with how it went anyways,” said Benson.

It was hard to battle back from the injuries, he admits. At one point he never thought he’d be able to play hockey without the pain.

“There was a lot of adversity. There were tough times. I missed a lot of hockey…I guess it makes it all worth it knowing I had finally battled through all that and made it to the NHL. It was always the dream,” said Benson.

The last three years, Benson has jumped between the Oilers’ affiliate Bakersfield Condors of the American Hockey League (AHL) and the Oilers. In 2019-20, he played seven games in the NHL. The following season he played 29.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY the EDMONTON OILERS HOCKEY CLUB

STUART SKINNER

Skinner was drafted in 2017 in the third round by the Edmonton Oilers, 78th overall. He was recognized as one of the top two goaltenders for that draft year.

Leading up to the draft, Skinner was singled out as someone destined for stardom. His outstanding second season in the AMBHL saw him picked by the Lethbridge Hurricanes, 17th overall in the 2013 WHL bantam draft.

Skinner has had a career injury-free, but that doesn’t mean it’s been smooth sailing.

“I’ve been battling for spots with other goalies my whole life really,” he said.

His first year of professional hockey was another battle, ending up being moved from the Bakersfield Condors to the Wichita Thunder of the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL).

“I was the first guy sent down to the ECHL my first year pro. That was a tough set back. I played a full year in the ECHL,” he said. “It’s a different world down in the coast.”

And his leap to the big league wasn’t without challenges either. Skinner’s first and only game for the OIlers in the 2020-21 season was Jan. 31, 2021. The Oilers beat the Ottawa Senators 8-5.

“I thought I would have played better. If it wasn’t for the guys in front of me, it definitely would have been a loss. It was a game with a lot of jitters, a lot of nerves,” he said. “It really made me think about how I needed to improve to play in the NHL and play in the NHL for a long period of time. I got straight back to work after that game.”

James Hamblin

Hamblin was never drafted by an NHL team despite having been taken in the first round of the 2014 WHL draft, picked 17th overall by the Medicine Hat Tigers. Instead he signed a two-year minor league contract with the Bakersfield Condors in 2020. Two solid seasons in Bakersfield and he signed a two-year entry level contract with the Edmonton Oilers.

“There’s been a ton of hurdles that I had to overcome,” said Hamblin. His small stature (he’s 5’9”), injuries and a poor showing his first year of juniors were all setbacks. But none of those compared to losing his mother Gina in 2017 to cancer.

“That was probably the biggest one and something I’ll always have to deal with. I am very fortunate that I did have my mom around and I wouldn’t be here without her,” said Hamblin.

As for his size, Hamblin says it’s made him the player he is today. He’s “positionally sound” and versatile, able to play centre and both wings, as well as the powerplay and penalty kill.

“I’ve always dreamed of playing in the NHL. I put in a lot of hard work to try and make that happen and I think with all that hard work comes confidence knowing that I have worked really hard to get here,” said Hamblin.

Ten years ago, all three players were on the same Southside Athletics bantam AAA team. In 2012-13, with Skinner as the rookie goalie, Benson the superstar captain, and Hamblin, a year younger and hard working, the Lions won the western regional championship.

“If you told me that 10 years ago that we would all be here, I would probably say I don’t know if that’s possible,” said Skinner.

“I never thought that would have happened in a million years,” said Benson. “Lots of things have to go right for that to happen. The stars aligned.”

“To play on the Oilers is just a huge privilege and is just crazy that all three of us can do it,” said Hamblin.

After playing two games, Benson was sent back to the Condors.

As of deadline for this article (Dec. 29), Hamblin has played nine games. Skinner has a record of 11-9-1. His goals against average is 2.82 and his save percentage is .916.

From then to now

If you told me that 10 years ago that we would all be here, I would probably say I don’t know if that’s possible

“

ON

AN OFFICIAL

By Rob Suggitt

Photos By SC Parker Photography

SPOTLIGHTTLIGHT TLIGHT LIEN CAMERON

In early December, we met up with 19-year-old hockey official Cameron Lien, who was getting ready to go on the ice for a U15 AA game at Confederation Arena.

Cameron started officiating when he was 12 years old, and currently does around 200-250 games a hockey season. When not officiating hockey, Cameron is a full-time student, enrolled in his second year at MacEwan University, majoring in sociology, with plans to go to law school afterwards. Cameron took the time out of his busy schedule to answer some questions about officiating hockey for Hockey Edmonton.

Aside from officiating, do you have any other hobbies or interests?

I love going out to the outdoor rinks in the winter with a couple buddies and playing some pickup hockey.

What other sports or activities do you participate in?

I don’t do much for other sports now, with school taking up most of my time, but I liked to try a little bit of everything when I was younger. I played ball hockey and roller hockey for a couple of years. I played a few years of rugby and loved it. I even tried karate for a year!

Do you still play hockey?

I played hockey for 10 years (mostly centre), my last year being in 2020, deciding not to come back for my final U18 year. I played all 10 years with NEZ.

Did you ever play in Edmonton Minor Hockey Week, and if so, any special memories?

I played in minor hockey week every year I played hockey, and it was always my favourite part of the year. It always just felt special. One of my fondest memories from minor hockey week was during my second year of u13, my team had lost every single game throughout the season, and when minor hockey week came around, we managed to rally and win the tournament! Getting to play in minor hockey week has created bonds with my teammates that still last to this day.

What made you want to become a hockey official?

It was always something I wanted to do from the time I was 9 or 10. I was never a very good player so it struck me as a way to get out on the ice even more and be involved in high level hockey. As well as a fun way to earn a little bit of extra money.

What level of hockey are you currently officiating?

I’m currently doing lots of U17AAA and U15AAA and AA. As well as a decent amount U18 and U15 house league hockey.

Do you usually do lines, or mostly refereeing? (And what do you prefer?)

I'm working as linesman for the AAA and AA games, and for the house league games, it’s mostly as a referee. I definitely prefer refereeing; being a smaller guy it can be tough breaking up some of the scrums for the bigger U18 kids.

Have you officiated games during Edmonton Minor Hockey Week, and if so, how many years have you done so?

I’ve officiated minor hockey week every year I’ve been an official which is seven. It’s always a blast seeing how excited the kids get and the stands are always packed which is awesome.

What makes you volunteer your time as an official for Edmonton Minor Hockey Week?

I always think back to how fun it was to play in minor hockey week and if it wasn’t for the officials that volunteered back then I wouldn’t have gotten the opportunity so it’s mostly about giving back to the next group of kids as well as getting to be a part of some really exciting games.

Any special memories from Edmonton Minor Hockey Week?

Getting to do finals is always a great time. The intensity is always so high and getting to be a part of that experience is incredible.

What do you enjoy most about officiating hockey games?

Being out on the ice participating in the game I love is amazing. And the officials I have worked with along the way make it even better.

What kind of training were/are you provided?

Every year all officials participate in a mandatory full-day clinic with an exam at the end. Throughout the year we are supervised by other officials to provide further training.

Do you have a role model or mentor who has helped you along the way?

My assignor, Scott Fulmer has been instrumental in moulding me into the official I am today. He came and supervised games in my first years of officiating and continues to do so to this day. He always shot straight with me and told me what I needed to work on while keeping my confidence up by telling me what I did well. What he does is a tough job and thankless job but he does it well and I wouldn’t be where I am today without him.

What is the toughest part about being a hockey official? Not letting yourself listen to criticism from coaches, fans, or players. It can be tough for a young official to tune out all the noise.

Ever suffer any injuries as an official?

Any close calls?

I’ve been fairly lucky so far. The worst I’ve had was losing a fingernail after taking a stick to the hand on a faceoff last year other than that I’ve avoided injury.

How do you handle criticism on the ice?

When I first started officiating it was definitely one of the tougher parts of being a ref, but as you gain experience you learn how to deal with stressful situations on the ice and how best to communicate with players and coaches. Hockey is an intense emotional game and you have to expect some criticism on the ice. You just have to learn how to manage it in a calm respectful manner.

What are your future plans as a hockey official?

I plan to continue officiating as long as I can with no real plans for the future. I’m just going to keep working hard on improving and see how far it goes.

Do you have comments you wish to share with parents, coaches or anyone involved with minor hockey?

I’d like to remind everyone that the officials are human too and we’ll make mistakes on the ice the same as everyone else. With such high intensity games during minor hockey week emotions can run high. But it is important to not let your emotions get the best of you and to treat everyone participating with respect, players, coaches, officials, and other fans included.