Emily Plihal
Editor, Smoky River Express

Hockey is always a truly exciting game, no matter the age or skill level.

I was fortunate enough on the weekend of March 12 – 15 to observe Alberta’s Atoms C Provincial Championships in Falher.

I was extremely impressed with the effort the parents, volunteers and hockey players put into the three-day event.

The hockey itself was phenomenal. The young boys and girls, aged 9 and 10, proved they were extraordinarily excited to be playing in provincial level hockey.

I was shocked at the skill many of these children had with the puck. I would even go as far to say their style of hockey was more exciting to watch than the NHL.

I think part of the reason the games were so interesting to watch is because the children have an authentic passion for the game.

At that age, they are still untainted by the “perks” hockey can offer. They’re not concerned about the money they could make in hockey, the scholarships that could be earned, or the privileges that naturally come from playing sports.

Their passion for the game was outstanding. Even at a young age, you could see they were determined to win.

I was extraordinarily impressed with the parents who took time out of their busy schedules to volunteer during the three-day event, too.

Parents from all different levels of hockey in the Smoky River Region participated by volunteering to man the door and be security guards.

Their children were not necessarily playing hockey that weekend, but they were more than happy to take some time to help the Atoms.

Teams travelled for the competition from as far as Redcliff - which is 5km west of Medicine Hat. How amazing are hockey parents, to arrange travel that far for a few hockey games.

It’s so refreshing to see great parents taking such good care of their children’s interests.

With all the crime and corruption, lies and deceit our world has to offer, it is nice to see the love and dedication some people still have for their families and friends.

In addition, the Smoky River Atoms parents and coaches who organized the tournament did a great job. The whole weekend ran very smoothly thanks to the organization of a group of local hockey parents.

Some who may go unnoticed are the arena caretakers Shawn Gervais and Logan Witchen, who spent many hours at the rink to provide a great hockey experience in the new Falher Regional Recreation Complex.

Town of Falher Director of Public Works Ernie Marchildon also spent Friday night at the rink with Shawn to ensure the ice would be in good condition for the young hockey players.

I have to commend the great regional support from all local communities I noticed on the weekend. It was great to see the towns of McLennan and Falher donate ice time to the Atoms tournament.

I was also impressed with the decorations local businesses put up to support the tournament.

This tournament was a great example of how successful our region can be when everyone supports their neighbouring towns.

Kudos to all volunteers, local businesses and towns for doing such a commendable job two weekends ago. Our local communities are filled with truly motivational people! Great job!

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