St. Catharines, ON – While it was still dark on the morning of March 31st, the Brock Leaders Citizenship Society (BLCS) and additional volunteers packed themselves into cars and headed to the Niagara Ball Hockey Club in St. Catharines. These volunteers had been busy preparing for the Third Annual Flora Broley Memorial Ball Hockey Tournament to raise money for the Alzheimer Society Niagara Foundation during the previous five months; today was the day that all of their hard work would pay off!
They were met with a chilly morning on Saturday and braved a mixture of elements on Sunday; but, neither the cold nor the rain or hail could dampen the spirits of all involved! The only member that felt no difference of cold and heat was Boomer the Badger, who was hot even without dancing to the blaring music. Throughout the two days, a total of 26 teams competed against one another, exceeding last year’s registration count by 6! With food and drink, Hardest Shot and Accuracy Challenges, a 50/50 draw and numerous prizes to be awarded based on spirit and skill waiting for them along the sidelines, these men and women showed off their skills in hopes to win it all!
The two days were full of frenzy, excitement and hype; scores were kept, hands were respectfully shaken at the end of each game and painted or tattooed cheeks of volunteers and spectators added to the whirl of color and emotion. A local resident and member of the Alzheimer Society dropped by to give a personal testimony of the society’s work, reminding everyone in attendance that our efforts are contributing to a worthy cause. In the end, the Goon Squad met Ramped Up in the B Pool finals, while Niagara North Stars and the Gale Street Hookers competed in the A Pool championship game. After two strenuous battles involving the top teams of the tournament, the Goon Squad and Niagara North Stars achieved this year’s title as champions.
In addition to running a very successful tournament, the BLCS is proud to announce that this year’s grand total of funds raised is $7,361, a number that exceeds the previous year’s amount by over $2000! This amazing achievement was possible only through the combined effort of the dedicated volunteers, spirited participants and faithful sponsors, many of which have partnered with the BLCS over the past three years of the event’s existence. The BLCS would like to extend their thanks to all donors and contributors: your help was truly unforgettable!
2012 Champions
Nigara North Stars: Brent Kozuh, Ben Shoalts, Adam Shoalts, Wes Crowe, Chad Rumsby, Matt Ventresca, Justin Lemieux, Deryk Kozuh & Jeremy Courtney.
Goon Squad:
Alex Mohr, Luke Brackett, Spencer Merrick, Paul Kagan, Damien Zeitek, Brock Molnar, Dan Biz, Eric Cleary & Brenden Weeks
