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A record fundraiser

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

Submitted by Preferred Insurance

London & Area Edition

They really outdid themselves in 2017. Through their annual ‘Turkey Bowl’ to raise money for Childcan, Preferred Insurance & Partners smashed their fundraising goal and set a new record by bringing in an impressive $51,280 this year – and all for a fantastic cause. The Preferred Insurance Turkey Bowl started small (but with a big dream) 11 years ago as a thank you to its business partners. It has since evolved into a huge hospitality, networking $250,000 over the past six years. and charitable event. The goal for 2017 The 2017 edition had some special was to raise $35,000 for Childcan, and partner contributions – including from thanks to the partnership and generosity Holiday Inn & Suites – London South, of more than 100 business partners, the The Angry Goat Public House, New Era goal was surpassed and a new record set Graphix, Scherba's Great Floors, Classic at $51,280. Rock – FREE 98.1FM, and Railway City “Every year we dream it bigger and betBrewing. These businesses are greatly ter, and every year we make it happen,” appreciated. said Peter Carr from Preferred Insurance. Meanwhile, All-Star Partners who made “The Turkey Bowl is a special day for our special excess donations beyond regular business partners, as we invite them to partnership amounts included: connect with us on a mission to raise • Gore Mutual Insurance Company money for Childcan. They are an amazing - $5,000 organization that helps families navigate • CARSTAR London East / CARSTAR emotionally and financially after receiving London West / Downtown Auto Glass a childhood cancer diagnosis.” - $4,500 The biggest transformation this year • Enterprise Rent-A-Car - $2,500 came from partnering with BELFOR • Biosweep Canada - $1,500 Property Restoration, and the company • Heartland Farm Mutual - $5,000 became the Signature Event Partner. “We’re extremely proud and grateful The move substantially helped take it to to have such fantastic partners,” said another level. Carr. “Together, we raised $51,280 in one “We’re very grateful for their continued amazing day!” partnership,” said Carr. “The Turkey Bowl is a fun day with a special purpose, and it is proof that many hands joining together can accomplish something truly outstanding.” Including some business partnerinspired fundraising drives, Preferred Insurance has now The annual Preferred Insurance ‘Turkey Bowl,’ which supports Childcan, an organization that helps families – emotionally and financially – after a childhood cancer diagnosis, raised a record raised more than $51,280 in 2017. Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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badminton.............................................. pg 4 fitness................................................ pgs 6-7 baseball............................................pgs 8-12 soccer............................................. pgs 13-18 lacrosse................................................ pg 20 accessible sports...................................pg 21 seniors sport.................................. pgs 22-23 martial arts.................................... pgs 24-25 cycling.................................................. pg 26 volleyball....................................... pgs 26-27 skiing.................................................... pg 27 football................................................. pg 28 golf.................................................pgs 31-33 gymnastics..................................... pgs 34-35 cheerleading.................................. pgs 37-38 dance.................................................... pg 39 aquatics......................................... pgs 40-42 figure skating........................................ pg 43 hockey........................................... pgs 44-54 events................................................... pg 46 bowling.......................................... pgs 48-49 Thank you London Aquatic Club, Middlesex Swimming & Forest City Diving Club for the cover photos

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London

Adidas enters badminton world

Your Community

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Sports Connection

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 PUBLISHER: Greg Matthison GregM@SportsXpress.ca, 519 619 6029 London.SportsXpress.ca

Contributions by Derek Moore Adidas, the largest shoe models, as well as apparel and sportswear manufacshuttlecocks. turer in Europe and Of Courts in London is excited to carry one of the biggest the new Adidas badminton brand, and sports brands in the they’ll continue to add products as the world, has made the company unveils more in the near future. move into the world of badminton – and If you’re interested in giving the Adidas they’ve done it with a smash. brand a try, head on down to Of Courts To reach a big chunk of the market and talk to their retail experts! (more then 200 million badminton playwww.ofcourts.com ers worldwide), Adidas recruited industry The article is brought to you by experts from Japan to help with product development. Already, they offer a wide range of products – for all ages and levels, whether players are participating in singles or doubles. Adidas has long been associated with a high quality of design and manufacturing, and they’ve certainly maintained that track record with their badminton line of products. The intent was to fuse speed and style to produce exciting new products for the sport of badminton. That means designs that are lightweight and made for power, speed and control. Within Canada, Adidas currently offers eight different racket models, four racket bags, and a variety of different strings. From beginner to expert, there truly is a racket for everyone. And coming next year, the company will be making available badminton-specific Adidas has made the leap into the world of badminton, offering various products at Canadian outlets – including at Of Courts in London!

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

Todd Devlin Alyssa MacLeod Britt Cobean

CONTRIBUTORS Richelle Hirlehey, Derek Moore, Judy Reddick, Gavin Corcelli, Kim Benke, Cheryl Madliger, Carleigh McInnes, Shannon Williams, Merritt Lymburner, Erin Boyd, Mike Lumley, Tracey Andrus, Marc van de Ven, Hilary Kustermans, Amanda Kostesku, Rodney Hynes, Matt Robbins, Alfie Breton, Amber Newcombe, Jessica Sturt-Smith, Bowlerama, BodyWorx, LDBA Baseball, London Badgers, Sport Clips London, Centrefield Sports, St. Joseph's Health Care London, Forest City Diving Club, The Little Gym of London, EBBA, Preferred Insurance, London Junior Golf Development Centre, London Celebrity Sports Dinner, BMO Centre, London Mens Baseball League, London Wheelchair Basketball Association, London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby, Family Karate, London TFC Academy, London Volleyball Club, London Youth Whitecaps, Western Mustangs, London Blue Devils Lacrosse, London Minor Football Association, Power Cheer Gym, Middlesex Swimming, CheerStrike, Olympic Karate, London Aquatic Club, Jill Maloney, London Sharks Volleybal, Extreme Indoor Golf , the SportsXpress Team and local sports enthusiasts.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS Pam Bialik, Laura Plank, Carol Ward, Forest City Image Centre, BodyWorx, LDBA Baseball, London Senior Games, London Badgers, Southwest Academy, Dance Extreme, Family Karate, Sport Clips London, Centrefield Sports, Forest City Gymnastics, London Pickleball Club, London Celebrity Sports Dinner, Elgin Middlesex Chiefs, The Little Gym of London, Preferred Insurance, St. Joseph's Health Care London, London Junior Golf Development Centre, Forest City Diving Club, London TFC Academy, London Knights, MEC, London Track 3 Ski School, MS Society of Canada, London Mens Baseball League, BMO Centre, London Youth Whitecaps, London Wheelchair Basketball Association, London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby, Olympic Karate, Bowlerama, London Volleyball Club, London Minor Football Association, Middlesex Swimming, CheerStrike, Power Cheer Gym, London Aquatic Club, the SportsXpress Team, various sports group photographers and community sports fans.

London SportsXpress is an independently owned and operated member of the SportsXpress Network Editorial Contributions: Submissions are welcome from writers, photographers, athletes, coaches and individuals. Please contact the publisher. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. Contributors are responsible for obtaining all approvals for 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. London SportsXpress is published six times per year. London SportsXpress 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 London SportsXpress attempt to provide accurate and useful information and commentary. However the editors, contributors and London SportsXpress cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. We assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any readers based on the information provided.

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Big changes are possible Submitted by BodyWorx Graig Richter, back in his university days, was the captain of the Western Mustangs football team. But at the start of 2017, he was admittedly out of shape and unhealthy. Here is Graig’s story in his own words: “The moment I knew I needed to lose weight and have a better diet was when a health insurance nurse came into my work. She weighed me in at 259 pounds, with a super high blood sugar, and I instantly cancelled all my plans for the day

and left work to consult with my doctor. “The following day, I checked out the gym in the same building where I work – with no referral or knowledge about what they necessarily did there. It’s called ‘BodyWorx.’ I then met Tania [Admans] and started personal training with her – with blind faith – in hopes of becoming healthier, losing weight, and gaining cardio and strength. Although the workouts are very tough and grueling most times, I find them to be contagious, especially with the attitude and motivation that Tania brings to each workout. She never cuts me any slack, and she always pushes me to the limits. The best part of our relationship is that we’re like teammates, in the sense that we accomplish my goals together. That is huge. “In the last nine months that I’ve been training at BodyWorx, I have lost 20 pounds, increased my cardio and strength drastically, and am overall much healthier, physically and nutritionally, which is allowing me to be more involved in my kids’ lives. This change has Graig Richter, a former varsity football player with the Western Mustangs, has undergone a health transformation thanks to the help of trainer Tania Admans and allowed me to be able to the BodyWorx gym.

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spend more time and play more games with them on the playground. Not only has this different lifestyle impacted my life, but it has also made me a better role model for my children.” Today, Graig is down 28 pounds (24 pounds of body fat!). Says Admans: “I’m inspired by and so proud of this man. He’s still bringing competition to each and every workout! And he’s proof of what a strong mind, determination, and drive – on and off the field – can accomplish (our field being the gym and off the field being in everyday work/ home, finding the right food/nutrition balance). Even the greatest athletes can get off track. What matters the most is getting back! Follow us on Twitter/Facebook/ Instagram!

www.bodyworxtraining.com

BODYWORK TRAINING Tania Admans, Owner/Personal Trainer/ Conditioning Coach www.bodyworxtraining.com tania@bodyworxtraining.com 519-858-BODY 142 Fullarton Street, London, ON

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Orioles making great strides Submitted by LMBL The London Mens Baseball League expanded in 2016 from 10 to 12 teams due to increased interest in recreational 30+ adult men’s baseball in the London community. One of those expansion teams, the Orioles, is headed by former LMBL President and current player/manager Jeff Reid. “We went from a bunch of strangers to a family in a very short time,” says Reid. “I couldn't ask for a better group of guys to manage.” As is usually the case with expansion franchises, the Orioles had a tough first season. In 2016, the team finished with

a 1-17-1 record. But that doesn’t mean the players didn’t have a great experience (and most of those losses included a post-game team BBQ and refreshment meeting, allowing the players to wallow in the fact that things could only get better!). And they were right. The players truly believed in themselves, and the 2017 season saw only one active player from the prior year not return (and only due to the travel required to play in London – since he lived in Chatham!). The 2017 season began much better for the Orioles, as they equaled their win total from 2016 after only two games!

They finished the regular season with a record of 5-11-1, knocking off some strong teams in the process. This qualified them for third place in the B Division playoffs, and the Orioles took full advantage. They got hot when it counted and ran the table in the playoffs, going 3-0 on their way to winning the B Championship. The LMBL Orioles will look to improve on this mark in 2018 and position themselves to be a contender for the A Division title in the near future. Their offseason commitment to training shows that this could happen sooner rather than later. Says Reid: “We regularly get 10 players or more to show up at winter workouts. For a recreational league, I think that's impressive. But it says more about team chemistry than anything else. The Orioles players are truly dedicated to the game of baseball.” Who knows what lies ahead on the diamond, but one thing is for sure: BBQ’s, beverages, and good times at the ballpark are definitely in the Orioles’ future.

www.lmblbaseball.ca The London Mens Baseball League is an ‘over 30’ mens league based in London, Ontario (baseball, not softball or slo-pitch!). We play most games on Sundays, from May to September, at locations including Labatt Park, Dan Pulham Field, Byron, and Dorchester. Our league ranges in age from 30 to 80!

The Orioles were crowned 2017 B Division champions: Front Row (left to right): Jon Magwood, Josh Wilson, Jay Ebel, Dave Jansen, Chris Newman. Back row: Dave Jaques, Bobby Russelo, Ben Maessen, Jamie Grenier, Jason Cox, Callum Hughson, Jeff Reid. Absent: Carl Good, Adam Stafford

The LMBL is currently accepting new players. Registration for 2018 is now open, and closes February 15. Visit our website for more information, or to register.

www.customrockcreations.ca 519-652-8811 • 258 Exeter Road, London ON N6L 1A3

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Centre bustling with baseball in new year Submitted by Centrefield Sports During the holiday season, Centrefield Sports embraced the end of the year with a number of camps, clinics and leagues, and welcomed the new year with plenty of new players, teams, and members out on the field. December marked the end of hitting, infielding, pitching and clinics for all skills, but January will bring a new bout of sessions for an array of the same, so

that newcomers can get in on the action, and so that those who have already begun to hone their skills can continue to do so and progress in their improvements. The end of the year also saw the end of our rookie and mosquito leagues, and 2018 will welcome pee wee players to the field for a league of their own. Home of the Great Lake Canadians baseball program for local, elite, amateur players, Centrefield Sports is proud to be the off-season training facility for these athletes as they look to get ready to defend championships at three levels in the Canadian Premier Baseball League next

The Great Lake Canadians had a great season in 2017, earning league tournament championships at three different levels along the way

summer. New this winter, the Canadians will honour several of the program’s top players with organizational awards before the year’s end. Outside of several baseball camps, clinics, leagues and lessons, Centrefield Sports will also continue to be home to football, soccer, softball, lacrosse, rugby, and many more sports and activities throughout the year. Memberships to the facility are offered for individuals in flexible and accommodating packages. We look forward to seeing you at the field!

www.centrefieldsports.com

Nolan McCrossin, a Great Lake Canadians player, works with a youngster from the rookie league during a game at Centrefield Sports

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Ball is back (indoors) in January Submitted by Eager Beaver Baseball Association Eager Beaver Baseball Association (EBBA), London's longest running youth sports program, is busy planning for its 64th season of co-ed house league baseball. Players aged 4 to 21 (based on the age they are turning in 2018) are placed in divisions ranging from Little Sluggers to Juniors. EBBA is totally run by a group of hardworking volunteers committed to providing a quality baseball experience

Photo by Amber Newcombe Rookie players celebrate the 2017 Colman Day at Labatt Park (left to right): Ryan Moore, Kaleb Boyle, Jason MacGregor, Jeremy Amaral

for players of all ages and skill levels. Little Sluggers (4 and 5-year-olds) and T-Ball (6 and 7-year-olds) meet at Mornington Park on Saturday mornings to learn and refine their baseball skills. Rookie (8 and 9-year-olds) and Mosquito (10 and 11-year-olds) practice once a week and play two games each week, all at Mornington Park. PeeWee (12 and 13-year-old) players practice and play one game a week at Mornington Park, as well as another game a week at neighbouring communities. The Bantam (14 and 15-yearolds) and Midget (16 to 18-yearPhoto by Jessica Sturt-Smith Welcoming you to the new concession booth at olds) divisions Mornington Park are Adam DaSilva,Tannor Harmpractice and play sworth and Hannah McQuade

one game per week at Kiwanis Park, as well as one away game at local communities. Meanwhile, the Junior (19 to 21-yearold) division has Citywide as their home field and play weekly games against other Junior teams from the area. Already a full calendar of events is being planned for 2018. Preseason indoor conditioning clinics will be starting in January. Evaluations will be held at the end of April. Outdoor practices and games will start in May. Colman Day, an all-star celebration held in honour of one of EBBA's founders, Frank Colman, is being planned for mid-July at Labatt Park. Don't miss out on being part of the EBBA team. Online registration will open on January 2, and the first in-person registration is January 27. Please go to the league website for all the dates, times, locations, and any other information you may require.

www.ebba.ca

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National championships on deck Submitted by LDBA Baseball

St. Thomas to host 21U Nationals

the volunteer form (volunteer duties include scoreboard operation, music, The 21U Baseball Canada National Championships will be taking place in our announcing, clothing sales, and gate attendants). backyard in the summer of 2018. From This will be the first time St. Thomas August 16-20, the city of St. Thomas will has hosted a National Baseball welcome 11 teams from across Canada Championship, and the city and its orgato compete for the title of Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best. nizers are extremely excited to welcome The St. Thomas Tomcats, fresh off their some of the best provincial junior players bronze medal in Quebec at the 21U to our community. The LDBA has played Nationals last summer, will be the host Also includes Aylmer, Delaware-Komoka-Mt Brydges, Dorchester, Exeter, Lucan-Ilderton, Ingersoll, Mitchell, team, and they certainly have aspirations host to several National Championships Sarnia, Strathroy, Tillsonburg, and Wyoming in the past, and always host a first-class of winning the national title. event. The 6-day event will feature a welcome has become the main selection tournaThe premier playing fields in St. banquet and home run derby at Emslie Field in Pinafore Park on Aug. 15, opening Thomas are top notch. Emslie Field is #16 ment for the Junior National Team. This is a great honour for our program, on Canada's list of favourite ballparks, ceremony festivities on Aug. 16, and of and we are very excited to be hosting and brand new Cardinal Field is a huge course the national championship touraddition to baseball in our area. This $1.3 such a prestigious event. Our goal is nament itself (Aug. 16-20), which will be make this an event that every player, million park was built last year and was played at Emslie Field and the brand new coach and parent will remember and talk instrumental in allowing the committee Cardinal Field. to win the bid to host. The baseball parks about for a long time. The Tomcats are made up of college The City of London is a vibrant comcrew from the City of St. Thomas take treand university players that play in both munity with a strong history of hosting mendous pride in the facilities, and they Canada and the United States, and they Provincial, National and International will surely wow all participants. are the elite junior team of the London events. The city attracts world-class District Baseball Association. Planning London Badgers to Host 18U Natourism and sporting events due, in is already underway for the event, as St. tionals in 2019 and 2020 large part, to the many investments Thomas looks to showcase their city and After a very successful 2017 seamade in the downtown area that can baseball complexes, while cementing son, the London Badgers have now accommodate large crowds for sport St. Thomas as a destination of choice for been awarded the 2019 and 2020 and cultural events like the 18U National youth baseball tournaments at all age 18U Baseball Canada National Championships. groups. Championships! The City of London and the London TD Canada Trust is the Title Sponsor, The Badgers have hosted five previous Badgers have committed to providing a while MY FM 94.1 Radio St. Thomas is Baseball Canada Championships, startpositive experience for all participants! the Official Media Partner, Railway City ing in 2010 with the 18U Nationals and Brewery is the Official Beer Provider, www.ldbabaseball.ca the 2012 Baseball Canada Cup, which and Fanshawe College will provide Athlete Housing. Other sponsors include St. Thomas Optimist Club, STAPLES St. Thomas, Union Sports, Centennial Sports Club, and Impression Printing. Anyone interested in helping sponsor this event can contact Chris Wilkins at cjwilkins@rogers. com. Those interested in volunteering for the event can visit www. stthomasminorbaseball.com and fill out The St. Thomas Tomcats, who won bronze at the 21U Nationals last summer in Quebec, will host the 2018 event at Emslie Field and the new Cardinal Field Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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Banner year for Badgers Contributions by Mike Lumley and photo by London Badgers 841 WELLINGTON RD @ SOUTHDALE RD

It was a year full of high- University. Carson Lumley, lights for London Badgers meanwhile, won a 13U National baseball, one of the most Championship with North York accomplished programs in while being named Player of the the country. In 2017 alone, the Badgers Game twice and Defensive Player of the won a Major Peewee ICBA league chamTournament. At the end of the season, pionship, a Minor Bantam AAA OBA the youngster was named Baseball championship, and, impressively, came Ontario Youth Player of the Year. away with the Major Midget 18U Baseball Finally, the club even made an imCanada national championship trophy – pact on the international stage, as the an event hosted on home soil in London. program organized a spring trip to Cuba The Badgers also hosted the LDBA for nearly 100 players and parents, and Minor Mosquito playoffs, the Premier distributed 20 bags of baseball equipLeague of Ontario 16U playoffs, and ment to Cuban players, coaches and the over two weekends played host to a community at large. 129-team tournament. Meanwhile, the www.londonbadgers.on.ca program was awarded the Baseball Canada Midget National Championships again for 2019 and 2020. On an individual level, Will Pollard was selected to the Ontario Youth Team and played in the Canada Summer Games, Zack Banks earned a scholarship to Lake Michigan College, and Tyler D’Alessandro was awarded a scholarship Major Midget 18U squad captured a Baseball Canada national championto Salem International The London Badgers ship in 2017, a year that included plenty of accomplishments.

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LONDON BADGER 2017 AWARD WINNERS MAJOR MIDGET Pitcher of the Year: Connor Ambrogio Hitter of the Year: Tyler D’Alessandro Defensive Player of the Year: Alex Fishback MINOR MIDGET Pitcher of the Year: Jaryd Lund Hitter of the Year: Braydon Vescheuren Defensive Player of the Year: Brad Verhoeven & David Williams MAJOR BANTAM Pitcher of the Year: Jacob Haak Hitter of the Year: Noah Riley Defensive Player of the Year: Kieren Pook MINOR BANTAM Pitcher of the Year: Brendan Mahood Hitter of the Year: Evan Burns Defensive Player of the Year: Andrew Lawrence MAJOR PEEWEE Pitcher of the Year: Carson Lumley Hitter of the Year: Carson Lumley Defensive Player of the Year: Jeremy Tannahill MINOR PEEWEE Pitcher of the Year: Ethan Cascaden Hitter of the Year: Carter Egelton Defensive Player of the Year: Evan Horton MAJOR MOSQUITO Pitcher of the Year: Josh Belecky Hitter of the Year: Dylan Richter Defensive Player of the Year: Jagan Chanderdat & Ryan King MAJOR MOSQUITO-TIER 2 Pitcher of the Year: Vincent Arsenault Hitter of the Year: Simon Buck Defensive Player of the Year: Dylan Searle CLUB OF THIEVES Nolan Hazel, Dylan Richter, Jagan Chanderdat, Ryan Miron, Josh Vandenberghe, Ethan Cascaden, Jaden Martelle, Max Thivierge, Hunter Lidkea, Owen Magwood, Carter Egelton, Carson Lumley, Jeremy Tannahill Neela Chanderdat, Jeremy Stephens, Justin McLelland, Jordan Spring, Brett Harrison, Evan Burns, Alex Haak, Cole Fowler, Noah Riley, Bryce Gendys, Tyler D’Alessandro, John Geddes Batters Box Jr. Commitment to Excellence: Evan Horton Batters Box Sr. Commitment to Excellence: Robert Mayorga Source for Sports Jr. Player of the Year: Dylan Richter Source for Sports Sr. Player of the Year: Jacob Haak Staples Scholarship Award: Tyler D’Alessandro Graham Nichol Scholarship Award: Zach Banks

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Get the MVP treatment Submitted by Sport Clips London We know you don’t think about hairappointment. And you’ll walk out feeling Wonderland Rd S. Sport Clips’ mission is cuts 24/7. That’s our job! That’s why we like an MVP. Guaranteed. to provide a ‘Championship haircut exmade Sport Clips Haircuts. We’ve turned Open every day, Sport Clips Haircuts perience for men and boys in an exciting something that you have to do, into has three locations in London (all losports-themed environment.’ something that you want to do! cally owned and operated): 1985 Hyde www.sportclips.ca Sport Clips Haircuts is like no other Park Rd., 1103 Adelaide St. N, and 3059 place you’ve ever gotten your hair cut. Sports everywhere. TVs everywhere - playing sports. And guy-smart stylists who know how to give you the cut you want, and the cut you need. You don’t ever need an Besides the super sports experience, the ‘guy-smart’ stylists at Sport Clips London will leave you feeling like an MVP

JANUARY TRYOUT REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN ONLINE FOR OUR DEVELOPMENT (U8-U12) AND COMPETITIVE (U13+) LEAGUE PROGRAMS Tryouts will be held throughout January with selections confirmed mid-Feb. Specific times for ages are posted on the tryout pages of our websites: www.byronsoccer.ca and www.norwestsoccer.com All players must be registered 24hrs prior to attending. We have a place to play for all players born 2014-2000

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Andrus a top talent Contributions by Tracey Andrus MJ Andrus is a rising talent in the women’s soccer world, and with her recent invitation to the brand new Ontario REX Super Centre, the Grade 10 student is proving that she’s on the radar of Canada Soccer’s national program. Andrus was selected this past fall, along with 28 other girls (U14 to U18), to enroll in the third Regional EXCEL (REX) Super Centre in Canada (this one in Markham, Ontario) where she will engage in a full-time program and train or play five days a week with the top youth talent in the province. The program launched in January 2018, and is run by national and internationally-licensed coaches. Andrus and her fellow players will attend Bill Crothers Secondary School in Markham. MJ’s soccer life began when she was 7 years old. She played two summers for Byron before competing for Lambeth and then moving on to train under Garrincha deFigueiredo for four years.

She then left London to join the Ontario Player Development League and compete for Hamilton (the closest OPDL team to London). She has spent two summers in the league, and was named to Team Ontario last April. MJ Andrus competes against Hamilton United (U16) As a member of Team Ontario, Andrus in the 2016 Umbro Showcase Tournament plays in a game in April 2017 in Quebec A Byron Northview Public School student, can also play striker). In fact, she played Andrus attended Oakridge Secondary attacking defense for Team Ontario, and School for grades 9 and the first half of has been considered a ‘hybrid player’ grade 10. Now, she’ll be heading to Bill who is able to play many positions on Crothers S.S. (a sport high school). In the field. Having already, as a grade 10 addition to regular soccer training, she’ll student, been offered a ‘full ride’ scholaralso have two strength and conditioning ship to Michigan State for soccer starting sessions per week at the Canadian Sport in the fall of 2020, now Andrus will take Institute in Toronto. the next step in soccer in this country It is certainly exciting times for Andrus, and hope to climb the rungs of Canada who plays both right and left wing (and Soccer’s system.

2018 OUTDOOR RECREATION (HOUSE LEAGUE) PROGRAM • U4 - U18 OFFERED BY BYRON OPTIMIST & NORWEST SOCCER CLUBS

KEEP A BALL AT YOUR FEET! Both Byron and NorWest Soccer Clubs have long-standing traditions of offering Grassroots Development soccer to their surrounding communities. Our youngest and most excited players (U4-U12) will be well supported with a comprehensive GPS led curriculum. The curriculum is age appropriate for their physical, social, and emotional stage focused on fun, physical literacy, skill development and game play development. Training and coaching is delivered by our professional, licensed and volunteer Coaches. For our older players we offer a fun, robust house league program with programming designed for their age groups and delivered by our certified volunteer coaches. Check our websites for registration details on our unified programming:

www.byronsoccer.ca and www.norwestsoccer.com

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Year to remember Submitted by London Youth Whitecaps league-best). July brought the start of the Ontario Cup Tournament. After losing on penalties in 2016, the boys felt that ‘redemption’ was necessary this year. That redemption began by steamrolling their way through a perfect 3-0 preliminary round, followed by an opening 2-1 win in pool play in a great match against the Milton Magic (ranked Top 5 nationally). Their second game, a much-anticipated rematch against the defending National Champion Brampton East Blades, the team that beat them in the Ontario Cup final a year earlier, ended in a 2-2 draw. Against Pickering, the Whitecaps came out flying and cruised to an easy 6-0 win to earn a spot in the quarter-finals. Playing host to Ottawa, London dominated in the second half, scoring seven times en route to a 9-1 win. Trailing 1-0 in the semi-final match against the Toronto York Jets, London managed to score with only seven minutes left, and then struck again to earn a London Youth Whitecaps 2002 Boys team: Back row (left to right): Ryan Ojerraly, Armin Bradaric, Jaxon Nolte, Ade Bojali, Dylan Dasilva, Mateja Milidrag, David Cubillos, Elijah Barnes, Mohammad Rafih, Coach Jeff Cambridge. Front big 2-1 win and a spot row: Caleb Roberts, Dilan Davito, Jacob Luis, Justin Olawabi, Abel Tiruneh, Carson Wood, Mitchell Ryzer

The London Youth Whitecaps 2002 Boys team had an unforgettable year in 2017. Along the way, they won an Ontario Cup and earned a spot in the Toyota National Championships in Calgary, AB. The team began the season by winning the ‘First on the Turf’ tournament in May, beating Kitchener, 3-2, in a hardfought final to become 2017 Kick-Off Cup Champions. The boys continued to find their stride as the regular season got underway and, even with a few bumps along the way, managed to post a record of 9-1-2 and capture the WOYSL League Championship for the second year in a row. They scored a league-high 46 goals and allowed only 7 against (also a

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in the final for the second straight year. Down 1-0 in the Ontario Cup final against the Woodbridge Strikers, the Whitecaps created opportunity after opportunity, and before the end of the first half tallied an equalizer. They continued with their press in the second half, and converted a corner kick five minutes in to take a 2-1 lead. Two insurance goals sealed the deal and delivered the boys the Ontario Cup. The Whitecaps also earned a spot in the Toyota National Championships in Calgary, AB, winning their group with victories over the entries from PEI (2-1) and Saskatchewan (7-0). The quarterfinal match against the host Calgary team was filled with flair and dramatics, and the Whitecaps came away victorious after penalty kicks to move on to the medal rounds. In the semis, despite controlling much of the play against Team Quebec, the London boys were unable to find the back of the net. Quebec managed to score late in the game on a corner kick, and the Whitecaps couldn’t respond, ultimately falling 1-0. Playing for Bronze against Manitoba, London controlled the majority of play once again, but again came away on the wrong end of another close game to settle for fourth place. It wasn’t an ideal finish, but it was a year to remember for the U15 Whitecaps, who not only won an Ontario Cup title, but also represented the city of London in fine fashion on both the provincial and national stage.

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Popular Academy returns Submitted by the BMO Centre The BMO Centre is pleased to announce that they will again be running the BMO Centre Youth Academy during the winter months. This popular skills and drills program, which is now in its 6th season, is designed for children from ages 2 to 14.

With excellent coaching and a passion for seeing young players progress, both individually and as part of a team, the BMO Centre Youth Academy further illustrates why the BMO Centre is the place to be this January! Depending on the age group, the onehour program will run every Tuesday,

from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. for 10 weeks, beginning January 16 and ending on April 3, 2018. For more information, please visit the BMO website at www.bmocentrelondon. com or call us at 226-289-2838.

www.bmocentrelondon.com

The BMO Centre is back for a sixth season. Kids aged 2 to 14 will receive excellent coaching and learn new skills while having a lot of fun â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all at a top-notch indoor soccer facility!

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Academy teams up with a winner Submitted by London TFC Academy Local championship soccer club FC LONDON confirmed (as of Dec. 1) that their youth academy program will be heavily affiliated with the MLS champions, Toronto FC, and will in turn rebrand to the ‘London TFC Academy.’ The rebrand will include new colours, which will change to Toronto FC’s red, grey and white colour scheme along with a clothing manufacture change to soccer giant Adidas. “This is exciting for London, as we are

truly now offering a pathway for male players to pro,” said FC LONDON founder Ian Campbell. “We’ve spent several months negotiating a deal with Toronto FC president Bill Manning and GM Tim Bezbatchenko, and we’re thrilled with the results.” Those results include ongoing trials for players at TFC’s state of the art KIA Training Centre, which is only a two-hour drive from London. Many players within the club have already played exhibition games, toured the pro team’s facilities, and attended evaluations with Toronto FC coaching staff. The TFC staff will be tracking all London TFC Academy players in a master database for ongoing assessment and evaluation. Toronto FC will also be sharing player recruiting, coaching, training and curriculum resources with London TFC Academy, as well as running camps, training and evaluation sessions in London. Toronto FC’s GM is excited to leverage their recent MLS Championship win into even more opportunities going forward. “With the introduction of It is exciting times for FC LONDON’s youth academy program, as it has formed a major partnership with Toronto FC, the MLS champions, and rebranded as London TFC, we're excited to the London TFC Academy

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uniformly, across our player pathway, be able to teach not only in the GTA, but to work with coaches and players and technical staff to identify players and to help players realize their potential so that one day players from London TFC will be players at BMO field,” said Bezbatchenko. All materials shared by Toronto FC will be shared with partner clubs of FC LONDON. “This is the real deal,” said Mike Marcoccia, FC LONDON’s head coach. “The combination of this affiliation with our established U21 and League1 program now gives us a legitimate pathway from U8 right through to professional opportunities. On the girls side of things, they’ll also get exposure to curriculum and coaching from TFC staff which will enhance their ability to work toward scholarship and professional opportunities.” FC LONDON will continue to be the brand for the League1 and U21 teams as players graduate from youth soccer to the next playing level. Keep track of all the FC LONDON news at www.FCLONDON.ca

www.fclondonacademy.ca

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Meet the Coaches: Bill Wheeler By Cheryl Madliger, MEC staffer Bill Wheeler may self-describe as an ‘old fart who, for whatever reason, thinks he can motivate people to do what he was never able to do ... learn to run and train for races,’ but anyone who’s ever met him (or been to one of his workouts) knows just how humble a statement that is. Wheeler, or ‘Coach Bill,’ to many, has not only learned to run and train for races, but has motivated many people in London and beyond. From commuting nearly everywhere by bike, to winning the Canadian age-group championships in both cross-country running and the International duathlon, Coach Bill not only talks the talk, but he walks the walk. After dabbling in endurance sports – road, trail and cross-country-running, triathlon, and duathlon – and sports like hockey, squash and volleyball, Bill says he took to offering advice on training and competing from his experiences to help others. “Amazingly, that led to people blindly following me into adult coaching programs for running and triathlons, a university triathlon club, a kids’ program for cross-country running, and a multi-sport program,” Bill says. Many Londoners know Bill from his work with the MEC running meet-ups, the London Pacers, or the Western Triathlon Club. Bill holds certifications in coaching theory and sport-specific coaching, but much of his knowledge comes from reading, watching, and participating in the activities he coaches. And boy does he participate. Last year, Bill estimates he rode about 15,000km – including a bike tour of 3,500km to Halifax and back – and ran upwards of 2,000km. “Being active is my hobby,” Bill says. “It’s what I do with my friends – go for a ride, a run, or a hill workout. A lot of my activity is built into my normal day, commuting by bike or running to a run.” It is hard to believe that Bill didn’t come out of the womb wearing running shoes, but rather came to endurance sports in adulthood. “I never ran for running’s sake until my first fun run in my thirties,” he says. “And I didn’t do anything competitive until my

late forties.” Bill’s had success in the competitive realm, particularly in the 5km to halfmarathon distances. Right now, he says his favourite distance to run – besides “from here to the fridge” – is a 10km trail run. At the end of the day, Bill says it’s all about helping people get active. “I really like to see people out doing any activity,” he says. “As a coach, if I can be part of the motivation that gets them out there, that is my favourite or most rewarding part. In fact, I'm probably more of a facilitator than an actual coach.” Each week, Bill sends a personal newsletter-type email to 110 of his ‘friends,’ with updates and information he hopes will motivate them to get a little fitter or be a little more active. Bill is busy, but he says the fun he has keeps him going – and forms his personal philosophy: “Be active, have fun. Everyone welcome.”

flashing lights and head lamps help, as chances are you will be running when there is less daylight. • Be warm: The rule of thumb is to dress as if the temperature is 10 degrees warmer. Being warm is better than being cold. Dress in layers—base layer, warmth layer, wind and water-resistant layer. Protect the face and neck. A water resistant or Gore-Tex fabric shoe will be warmer than a regular mesh running shoe. Run into the wind to start, or run a route where you change directions to get breaks from the wind. • Forget the speed: Save the speed for the treadmill or indoor track. • Make a date: Running with a friend or friends isn't only safer but there's less chance you will wimp out! • Run trails: Stay away from the cars, and enjoy the season.

MEC.ca CHECK OUT EVENTS.MEC.CA FOR OUR SPECIAL WINTER PROGRAMS:

Bill’s tips for winter running: • Be safe: Use caution on the roads and adjust your workout/route based on the weather conditions. • Be seen: Reflective clothing, little

• MEC London Yoga – 10-week session - $40 • MEC London train to Run 5K/10K – 10-week session - $40 (includes MEC RACE)

Bill Wheeler wasn’t always a runner, but today he lives an incredibly active lifestyle while also encouraging others to get out and enjoy physical activity.

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SPORTS COMMUNITY PROFILES Jill Maloney Cheer has been a lifelong passion for Jill Maloney, who is a co-owner of the CheerStrike Royals, which were born in 2013. She cheered in high school and university for seven years, and then quickly joined the coaching ranks in the sport in 2002 at the high school level. And she has passed on her passion for sport to her kids – and the athletes she coaches. “All my favourite memories are connected to watching my children succeed in sport, and watching my own athletes perform at their best,” says Maloney. “My first national title as the coach of CCH cheer was especially memorable because it was many years of working our way to the top, and it was important for me to bring back a championship win as a Crusader alum.”

Her daughter is a member of the CheerStrike Royals, and she also dances at O’Neill Academy of Dance. Her son, meanwhile, plays hockey for the West London Hawks and also plays Southwest Baseball in the summer. With the opening of the CheerStrike Royals program, Maloney, a co-owner, dove into competitive cheer coaching full-time, and the club has grown into a very successful group of athletes. The goals of the program are to encourage self-motivation, hard work, respect, and personal and team achievements, and Maloney plays a big role in reaching those goals. London

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Jill Maloney (left), shown here with Bailey Brounstein, a five-year CheerStrike Royals athlete, has been teaching cheer for 15 years

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Local Accessible Sports News

Accessible Partners

London Wheelchair Basketball Association Submitted by London Wheelchair Basketball Association (LWBA)

Exciting times for wheelchair ballers

Disabilities Studies class. This is an annual event, and the Flash players always enjoy passing on the skills that they have learned to the Kings College students. The Flash also received four brand new basketball chairs this year. The Flash would like to thank the Goodlife Kids Foundation for their donation. We also want to thank Sunrise Medical for supplying us with the new Quickie All Court chairs. Please stay tuned in the new year, as there is still lots going on within

the London Wheelchair Basketball Association. The London Flyers have home games on February 25 at the Dorchester Flight Exec Centre beginning at 3:30pm. Meanwhile, the LWBA's annual Ballathon fundraiser will be happening in May (more information will be posted online). And we are also excited to be introducing an all-new logo, as well as a brand new website in 2018. For our most current events, please check out our Facebook page.

The 2017-18 season is well under way for the London Wheelchair Basketball Association, and the first half of the season has been full of games, practices, and even a few demonstrations. The London Flyers senior team has been hard at it since getting back into the gym in early September. We welcomed back the return of the Sales family from Alabama where Darda Sales had been studying and playing ball for the Alabama www.lwba.ca Crimson Tide. She also returns as a champion, as the Tide won the Collegiate Women's Wheelchair Basketball Title last March. The Flash program is going strong once again this year, and they have been busy training and building on all their skills since early October. In November, the Flash In addition to receiving four new basketball chairs this year, thanks to the Goodlife Kids Foundation, the LWBA hosted the Kings College were supplied (by Sunrise Medical) with Quickie All Court The Flash wheelchair basketball program welcomed Kings College’s Disabilities Studies class in November to pass on their chairs, as shown in the above photo

knowledge to the students

London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby Submitted by London Annihilators Wheelchair Rugby

Battling the best The London Annihilators have had a busy start to the 2017-18 season! And in the first competition of the year, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Annihilators captured their first tournament victory of the season! At the team's next competition in San Diego, the 28th Annual Best of the West Invitational, the Annihilators faced a murderer's row of opponents. In attendance were the current reigning Olympic

gold medalists from Australia, as well as the current American champions from Phoenix. The field was rounded out by the other top American clubs – bolstered by the top imports from all over the world. The Annihilators finished a respectable 6th place in the tournament and, perhaps most importantly, gained some valuable experience – and playing time – for their developing stars. The future definitely looks bright for the Annihilators!

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The London Annihilators have been busy this season, including competing against some of the best wheelchair rugby players in the world at various tournaments

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Bentley Hearing recognizes Sporting Seniors Featuring: London Pickleball Club

Support ALS research Contributions by Judy Reddick The London Pickleball Club hosted the third annual ALS Pickleball Tournament this past fall, raising more than $9,000 while having a lot of fun in the process. The tournament is all about celebrating and supporting Judy Alaszkiewicz, the inspiring club member who not only battles ALS, but does it while continuing to be a fantastic pickleball player. “We hold her in such high esteem,” the London Pickleball Club’s convenor says. “Judy is a fantastic player with a very positive attitude. And she’s still carrying [playing pickleball] and has not allowed the disease to cripple her.” In other words, her fellow members say, Alaszkiewicz is a real-life superhero. And that’s why they’ve been running

Team Batman

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the ALS Pickleball Tournament – with a superhero theme – for the last three years. This year’s event welcomed 64 competitors and 10 volunteers to help out during the day, which included not only top-notch pickleball action, but also a great lunch, a silent auction, and fundraising draws. With the help of donations from several local businesses, the group is able to raise a good amount of money that goes toward ALS research. This year’s draw included various superhero teams, including Team Batman and Team Superman, as well as The Hulk Team and the Spiderman Team. The event was held Sept. 30 at the Dorchester Flight Executive Centre.

provide more advanced play and skillbuilding for those wanting to play in tournaments. In order to be considered for membership, players need to be at a competitive level and need to be approved by the club executive. Members volunteer their time and energy in the running of the club. A requirement of membership is that all members volunteer in some aspect. The Club currently holds two tournaments per year.

About the London Pickleball Club The London Pickleball Club (www. londonpickleball.ca) was formed to

Team Superman

Spiderman Team

The Hulk Team

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Meet the athletes… By Kim Benke The London Senior Games (LSG) – District 30 of OSGA – provides opportunities for Londoners aged 55+ to compete in a variety of activities throughout the year. And who are these senior athletes? Meet some of them now … Don Cameron has won Gold in Snooker each of the last two years. In 2016, he won the Ontario provincial event in Midland, and he has qualified for provincials in August 2018 in Mississauga. Linda Grainger has been playing volleyball since 2016. This year, she brought a partner, Ken Arnott, and together they won Silver at Crokinole (and they will also play Euchre). Linda likes the Senior Games so much that she has volunteered to serve as LSG Treasurer. Randy Frederick won Gold in Men’s Doubles 55+ and Mixed 55+ Badminton,

Kim Benke

with his partners Gary and Lynn Thompson. He also plays Squash, and this year he volunteered to be the Convenor for that event. John Sterling & Nancy Alway, and Karen Jackson & Don Gidley, won Silver and Gold, respectively, in Mixed 65+ Badminton. All have been active in Badminton and other sports for many years, and they look forward to this annual event. Mitch Lupa has been active in the London Senior Games since 2007, competing in Volleyball in the winter and SloPitch in the summer. She has served on the LSG Board for many years because she wants to keep the opportunity alive for all senior Londoners. Currently, Mitch is the District Coordinator and London’s representative to the Ontario Senior

Mitch Lupa

Randy Frederick

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Badminton players John Sterling, Nancy Alway, Karen Jackson and Don Gidley

Games 55+ Association. Kim Benke is a relative newcomer to the LSG Board, having turned 55 just 5 years ago. She, too, recognized right away the awesome opportunity to play in local and provincial events and be inspired by senior Ontarians into their 90’s who travel annually to play and meet old friends. Kim is currently Secretary of LSG and Convenor for Badminton, Cribbage, and Women’s Hockey.

www.londonseniorgames.com

Linda Grainger and Ken Arnott

Don Cameron

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Taking it to the next level Submitted by Family Karate The end of the calendar year often leads many of us to look back and reflect on what we have accomplished over the past 12 months. The coaches of the Family Karate Competition Team are no different, and this year we are incredibly proud of our team members. Most recently, the team continued our giving tradition by assembling and donating gift bags to Pathways Skill Development in downtown London. In late November, five team members finished their months-long test procedure and years-long journey to a black belt. Nathan, Eccaia, Kaleb, Owen, and Nicole put in tremendous effort in their final tests and should be proud of their hard work. One final team note comes out of Markham, where, on December 9, rookie team member Jada competed in a tournament and came away with 5th and 8th place finishes in deep divisions.

Looking ahead to 2018, the team will be holding tryouts on January 20, and the coaches are looking forward to seeing veteran members come back out as well as welcoming new members interested in joining the team.

The coaches wish to thank all the parents, family members, friends, and team members for all their hard work and support this year. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to all that 2018 holds!

www.familykarate.ca

It was an exciting November for five Family Karate athletes, as Nathan, Eccaia, Kaleb, Owen, and Nicole impressively completed their journeys to a black belt

Jada, a rookie athlete at Family Karate, earned 5th and 8th place finishes at a tournament in Markham in December

BEST. GIFT. EVER! Road Trips from London and Area to watch Pro Sports

Detroit Red Wings vs Feb 18

Toronto Maple Leafs - $239

Apr 5

Montreal Canadiens - $209

New York Yankees - $99

Toronto Blue Jays vs June 16

Washington Nationals - $99

July 7

June 30

Detroit Tigers - $99

July 13-15 Boston Red Sox - $800 (In Boston, 3 days)

Road Trip Partners

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. 24

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Tournament of Champions Submitted by Olympic Karate In early December at Olympic Karate Academy, we held our annual children’s Tournament of Champions. Children could participate in three events: kata presentation, free sparring, and fitness evaluation. The Tournament is a great way for kids to use their martial arts skills in a safe and controlled environment, as well as to see how they stack up against their peers. Healthy competition is what grows success and allows people to achieve more by pushing past their limits. We are very proud of everyone who competed. A very special congratulations goes to our top two divisions of Advanced Belts and Jr. Black Belts. The students in those divisions have been training for over two years, and based on their performances it showed! The level of quality and sportsmanship was exemplary. Special shout-outs go to Jude Baguley (for creating his own Knife

Kata), Maximus Boyce (for his outstandasked, ‘So, how did you do in the tournaing traditional Kempo Kata Suwari), ment, Carter?’ … Alan Cousins (for his sportsmanship www.olympickarate.on.ca and kindness as he congratulated and high-fived his classmates as they presented), and to the Patterson family with ‘three-peat’ Grand Champion Carter Patterson winning three firsts and his younger sister, Mackenzie, getting first in Kata. Carter took first place in all events for the second tournament in a row, and he did so with skill and courtesy. You’d never hear him boast or showboat about his wins. In fact, the only thing that gives his success away Carter shows off his trophies, with his subtle smile, from his last two tournaments is a subtle smile when

MARCH BREAK BASKETBALL CAMP MARCH 12-16, 2018

$250 per player for the week · 9am – 2pm daily Two separate groups age 7 to 15: Learn to Play and Competitive Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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MS Ride not just for cyclists By Carleigh McInnes For the last 27 years, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada has hosted the premier cycling event and largest MS Bike ride in the province of Ontario. At the end of July, people from all over southwestern Ontario, as well as from around Canada and even the United States, flock to the PwC MS Bike Grand

Bend to London start/finish line at the Grand Bend Motorplex to ride bikes of all shapes, sizes, and styles to Western University residences. Not only is it an outstanding weekend of cycling and team comradery, but it’s the first and foremost a fundraiser for Canada’s disease – multiple sclerosis. In 2017, nearly 1,500 participants at the PwC MS Bike Grand Bend to London fundraised a whopping $1.4 million in support of MS research and support services. The top fundraising and largest team, Team Cowbell, had 117 members who raised $120,790. Doug & Marion’s MS Erasers were the second-largest team (104 members), and also the second-highest fundraising team ($90,879). Anyone with a bike and the passion to end MS is welcome at the PwC MS Teams make up a majority of Bike Grand Bend to London event, which raises hundreds of thousands of dollars each year for research and support services the participant base, with 86% of

the event participants on 131 teams. All teams have participants of all ages (the youngest individual to take part in the 2017 tour was 7 years old, and the eldest was 88), as well as all abilities, and they come from all different walks of life. Some teams use this as a team-building opportunity for corporate purposes. Other teams are made up of friends and family and act as a fun challenge for all involved. When we say that anyone with a bike and the passion to end MS is all you need, we mean it. The PwC MS Bike Grand Bend to London is an excellent opportunity to become involved with the community, create a team-building experience, and be part of something meaningful. To get involved with the event as a planner, participant, volunteer or sponsor, please contact 1-888-510-7777 for more information.

www.msbike.ca

NEARLY 100 SETTERS STRONG! Thank you to all who came out to the LVC Holiday Setters Clinic! These setters were on FIRE working through simple hand and foot positioning to some tactical awareness, and lots and lots of reps! If you are interested in joining the London Volleyball Club this Winter, there is space in three upcoming programs: 1) Timbits (boys and girls, 4-9 years old) 2) Feed the Fire (boys and girls, 9-14 years old) 3) Volleyball Canada Excellence Program (boys and girls, 13-18 years old) Head to www.LVCFire.com to learn more and register! #lovethegame #weareLVC

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Ringing in a new season By Shannon Williams We couldn’t be more excited that January is finally upon us! January marks not only the start of a new year, but also the beginning of another alpine skiing

season for those at London Track 3. Each weeknight and weekend, hundreds of passionate instructors take to the hills at Boler Mountain to teach skiing to chil-

dren and adults with physical, developmental, visual and hearing challenges. Track 3 is built on passion and a drive to make sure that people of all abilities are included in all types of physical activity. One of the best characteristics of skiing and snowboarding is that it’s a sport for all ages and abilities. All volunteers at London Track 3 participate in a comprehensive training program that provides instructors the skills and knowledge to work with all students, no matter their restriction. If you’re a frequent visitor to Boler Mountain, it is easy to see why this program has such a profound impact on families. For many, Track 3 is the best six days of the ski and snowboard season. If you would like to volunteer, or participate as a student next season, or for more information, please visit

www.londontrack3.ca

The London Track 3 program is all about making sure that people of all abilities get to enjoy physical activities, including skiing!

Youth City League

Junior Academy

(Ages 12 – 16)

(Ages 8 – 12)

Location: Supreme Courts Volleyball Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays (10 weeks) Times: 5:30pm to 7:00pm

Location: Supreme Courts Volleyball Dates: Wednesdays and Fridays (10 weeks) Times: 5:30pm to 7:00pm

2017-2018 Sessions: January 2nd – March 10th April 3rd – June 9th

Cost: $140. All Athletes will get a program T-shirt

Cost: $135. All Athletes will get a program T-shirt

Let our developmental and competitive coaches work with you!

For full details go to www.londonvolleyball.ca 11 Buchanan Court, London, Ontario • 519-636-2295 Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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Friendship Bowls a tradition Submitted by London Minor Football Association The London Minor Football Association (LMFA) and Windsor Minor Football met again this year at Citywide Park in London for the 2017 Friendship Bowls (the seventh annual event). On Grey Cup Sunday, tykes (9 and under), atoms (age 10-11) and peewees (age 12-13) from the two leagues met on the field and then enjoyed a team dinner together. Both leagues choose their best players in each age group and then have two to three weeks to get their teams ready to play. Players come together in that short time, led by all-star coaching staffs. Playing in this game is a reward for the players who worked hard and excelled

during the season. Current WMFA president Paul Horoky sees the continued success of the games as a lasting tradition of goodwill and sportsmanship which was started by former president Mike Leach. Leach, who passed away earlier this year, was instrumental in making the Friendship Bowls an annual event that kids on both sides look forward to after their seasons come to a close. This year, the London all-stars swept all three games for the first time ever. The tykes won 32-8 for their third straight win. The atoms won for the first time ever, 30-12, pulling away after leading 6-0 at

half. And the peewees won for the first time in three years by a 28-16 score. LMFA is a house league that provides all players aged 7 to 13, regardless of experience or ability, the chance to join a team, make friends, stay active, and learn teamwork. Once again, the LMFA will host a very popular indoor skills camp every week at Centrefield Sports from January 12 to March 16, 2018. For more information on the 2018 LMFA indoor camps and fall season, please visit www.lmfafootball.ca or call 519-852-4465.

www.lmfafootball.ca

On Grey Cup Sunday, the seventh annual Friendship Bowls were held at Citywide Park. The event features the Atom and Peewee teams within the London Minor Football Association and Windsor Minor Football Association compete against each other in a fun and friendly environment.

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Sinclair to headline celeb dinner Submitted by London Sports Celebrity Dinner On the pitch, she’s scored the biggest goals in Canadian soccer history; now, Christine Sinclair will score a goal off the pitch for the Thames Valley Children’s Centre (TVCC). Widely regarded as Canada’s greatest soccer export, Sinclair will bring insights into her legendary career to the London Convention Centre Feb. 12, 2018 for the Start.ca London Sports Celebrity Dinner. “I am thrilled to be joining other incredible female athletes in London this February,” Sinclair said. “It will be great to learn about and see some of the amazing work done by the TVCC and help raise important funds at the dinner. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone there!” As the annual fundraiser’s organizing

Trish Stratus

committee began to think about honouring a special lineup of trailblazing female athletes earlier this year, Sinclair was winning a second National Women’s Soccer League Championship with Portland Thorns FC. The trophy, earned this past October, will be added to a burgeoning collection that also includes two Olympic bronze medals and 12 Canada Soccer Player of the Year Awards. Internationally, Sinclair’s career with the Canadian Women’s National Team is difficult to match. The Burnaby, B.C. native has represented her country for over 15 years, participating in four FIFA Women’s World Cups. The squad’s bronze medal in 2012 was punctuated by some of Sinclair’s most defining

moments – a record for goals scored at an Olympic Games and a memorable semi-final hat-trick against the United States. Sinclair will join retired WWE hall of famer Trish Stratus and the 2018 Sportsperson of the Year, Karen Phibbs, at the head table. Phibbs has been involved in virtually every aspect of the game of hockey throughout her accomplished career. She was elected to the Ontario Hockey Association Board in 1997, and she made history in 2006 when she became the first female OHA Board Chair in the organization’s history. In 2013, she became the first female Officer (serving as Vice-Chair) in Hockey Canada’s 99-year history, and in 2015 the OHA hired her as its first female President and CEO. She spearheaded the move to make full facial protection mandatory for all 2,800 players at the Junior level, a rule that came into effect this year. Stratus, a fitness icon, entrepreneur and actress, is a WWE Hall-of-Famer (inducted in 2013) who is recognized as one of the all-time great female wrestlers (she was a seven-time women’s champion). Since her retirement, Stratus has dedicated her life to health and fitness, including her fitness lifestyle brand, Stratusphere. More celebrity announcements will follow in the coming weeks. February’s event will return to the London Convention Centre for the first time in two years. Audiences can expect the same amount of celebrity interaction, entertainment, and auction packages that have made the event a London staple for over six decades. Tickets are $150 for one, or $1,500 for a table of 10. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the website.

Karen Phibbs

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London will welcome decorated Canadian Olympic soccer star Christine Sinclair at the head table at the Start.ca London Sports Celebrity Dinner in February

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National success, offseason options Submitted by London Junior Golf Development Centre

Local juniors fare well at National event In early November, the best golfers from across Canada on the Maple Leaf Junior Tour gathered to battle the Nicklaus Course at Reunion Resort near Orlando, Florida. Two Team London juniors, Cam Kellett and Aidan Smith, travelled to the event to compete for the junior title and juvenile title, respectively. The three days of sun was a great test for these juniors, and it even included

Team London juniors Aidan Smith and Cam Kellett, who played very well at a National event in Florida in November, pose with their coach, Brian Gallant

a demonstration by Charlie Rymer from the Golf Channel. Aidan improved each day, with rounds of 88-82-76 to finish T17th. With good ball striking and an off day on the greens the first two days, Cam was in 3rd place entering the final round, eight shots back of the leader. Cam shot the lowest score in the final group (71) to secure 3rd place, just four shots off a playoff. Congratulations to Aidan and Cam on representing Team London in Florida!

At Performance Golf London, juniors are able to improve their games throughout the offseason, including by playing famous courses on the HD Golf Simulator

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nents during the indoor season: TRAIN - With Flightscope, video, various training aids and top-level coaching, the focus on the fundamentals of movement and golf keeps our players advancing. PRACTICE – Using the Flightscope Skills App, you can practice on your own, hitting various shots to different targets while gaining points to track progress. PLAY – Experience a round of golf on famous courses from around the world on our HD Golf Simulator. TEAM LONDON – Our competitive junior teams are training the four cornerstones of the game – technical, physical, mental and tactical skills. The commitment to supporting each junior and his/ her personal development is the cornerstone of the team. To become part of this best in-class golf program and community.

Offseason indoor location open The new year has started, and the balls are flying! Our indoor location, Performance Golf London, is led by awardwinning PGA golf professional Brian Gallant. Our nationally-recognized program (by Golf Canada) has three key compo-

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Honouring academic achievement Submitted by Western Mustangs and photos by Pam Bialik Western's top student-athletes were honoured for their academic achievements in late November at the Freedom 55 Financial Scholar-Athlete Luncheon. A total of 371 student-athletes were recognized for achieving an average of 80% or higher in their academic program while participating in a varsity sport in the 2016-17 academic year. With two national and seven provincial championships already won this season, the Mustangs are a powerhouse on the field of play as well as in the

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classroom. Western once again boasts a high number of U SPORTS Academic All-Canadians, with 149 student-athletes achieving an average of 80% or higher in their program while competing in a sport at the university level. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being a student is first and foremost in our Canadian university sports system, and to have 37 percent of our studentathletes on campus be recognized as scholar-athletes is outstanding,â&#x20AC;? said Christine Stapleton, Director of Sport and Recreation Services.

Each of the 371 recipients received a certificate denoting their status as either a U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian, an OUA Achievement Award winner, or Western Mustangs Scholar Athlete. In addition, two student-athletes were presented with the Freedom 55 Financial Athletic Leadership Award. The award is given to a male and female full-time undergraduate or graduate student who had an 80% or greater average from the previous academic year, and who has demonstrated outstanding leadership on

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and off the playing field. This year's recipients of the award were Alex Taylor, a Kinesiology student from Winnipeg, and Emma Pearson, a Social Sciences student from Richmond Hill, Ont. Taylor and Pearson excel both in the classroom and in their athletic pursuits, with Taylor helping the Mustangs win the

2017 Vanier Cup, and Pearson serving as the captain and key member of the defence on the women's hockey team. “[Winning this award] means a lot to me because there are so many amazing student-athletes

Alex Taylor and Emma Pearson were named the winners of the Freedom 55 Financial Athletic Leadership Award, which is presented to a scholar-athlete who has demonstrated outstanding leadership on and off the playing field

at Western,” said Pearson. “To be selected for this award is an honour, and I'm really appreciative of the award.”

www.westernmustangs.ca

Members of various Mustangs teams from the Faculty of Health Sciences pose for a photo at the Freedom 55 Financial Scholar-Athlete Luncheon

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Santa visits Open House Submitted by The Little Gym of London The Little Gym has always been a great place for young children to learn and grow. And who loves children more than Santa!? So, on November 17, guess who paid us a visit? The Jolly Old Elf himself. We had a great time with Santa at our Christmas Open House, where we offered photos with Santa. Our good friend Stacey, from Stacey Hanlon Photography, stopped by

to add her professional skills to the photo-taking. We were quickly sold out, with 50 families having photos done. Meanwhile, the rest of the facility was fully-staffed and available for children to play and mingle with the elves while waiting their turn. We made lots of new friends, and it was great to have a time to wish the best of the season and say a big thank-you to all of our fantastic member families. We are very aware that we are nothing without the families that bring their children to class faithfully each week and allow us to teach our passion â&#x20AC;&#x201C; helping children develop as they grow. Classes can be joined at any time

(prices will be prorated), and curriculumbased March Break camps are open for enrolments. Also very popular is our 3-hour program called Wonderkids Club, which is designed to teach 3 and 4-yearold children independence in a classroom setting. Please call 519-642-0660, visit our website at www.tlglondoncan. com, or stop by to say hello at the west entrance of Sherwood Forest Mall. The Little Gym is a gymnastics-based learning centre with curriculum designed to help children develop their skills in three learning dimensions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; physical, social, and cognitive. If you are looking for something a bit different from how you may have traditionally thought of this sport for your child, give us a call and try The Little Gym!

www.tlglondoncan.com 4 Fanshawe Park Rd.

It was a festive day on Nov. 17 for The Little Gym of London, as the learning centre welcomed Santa Claus for some photos and fun!

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All about growth By Merritt Lymburner Forest City Gymnastics had an incredibly eventful 2017 – one that was filled with club firsts and massive growth! We started the year off in our new facility at 2449 Dundas Street, where our space more than doubled in size to over 22,000 sq. ft. The move led us to growth in all of our programs as well. After four decades in London, FCGC is thrilled to be able to offer members of the community a whole new level in services and classes being offered. Along with growth in our physical space, the club has also seen record numbers in both its Recreational and Competitive programs. With programs for both males and females, from toddlers to adults, there truly is something for everyone. We really hope that this amazing year is only the beginning, and we can’t wait to continue to offer the best in gym-

nastics programming to the people of London. To see what kinds of programs would be right for a member of your family, visit FCGC’s website at www.forestcitygym.com.

January 7, 2018 • New classes/programs are being created for future sessions – including an expanded adult gymnastics program • Offering coaching certification classes at our club as a host facility for Gymnastics Ontario • An expanded Recreational class and Birthday Party schedule has been created • Hosting the 10th Emerald Cup competition (April 20-22, 2018), with over 850 athletes attending • Hosting Ontario Championships for Level 3-5 (May 31 to June 3, 2018) Owners: Andy Gantlett and Cindy Smith-Rex WAG Program Director: Merritt Lymburner MAG Program Director: Kathy Crawford Recreational Coordinators: Beth White and Dawn Stewart

2017 highlights • Moved into expansive new 22,000 sq. ft. facility • Our recreational membership grew to 1200+ athletes • Competitive program hit a club high in athletes • Hosted our 9th annual Emerald Cup competition, involving 700+ participating athletes • Hosted the Level 3-5 Ontario championships, with 1,200+ athletes from around the province • Hosted numerous gymnastics Ontario courses and events

Looking ahead to 2018 …

www.forestcitygym.com

• Winter Recreation classes begin

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Cheer club taking nation by storm pcgvipers

Submitted by Power Cheer Gym The competition season is in full swing at the Power Cheer Gym, and the PCG teams are telling the nation that London is the cheerleading capital of Canada. The 120+ collegiate-aged cheerleaders who train at PCG made the statement at Nationals this year that the London club is the pre-eminent collegiate training centre in Canada. Western won its 32nd National coed title, and the All-Girl team captured their second (in three years). Fanshawe, which competes ‘up’ in the university category, brought home their second consecutive 2nd-place finish. The PCG Viper teams got their season underway with strong placings at events in Sandusky, Ohio and Brampton, but most significantly they took a leadership position in the formation of an entry to be selected as the representatives for Canada at the World Junior

Viper Juniors place first at Coastal Championship

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Championships in April. Veteran PCG Coach Garrett Skinn initiated an all-star selects program coordinated between four cheer gyms in Southern Ontario, with the aim to earn the privilege of being named the Canadian Junior National Team. The group, named ‘Red Ops,’ was shortlisted to the top three entries in Canada, and they hope to earn the bid early in 2018. Thirteen Viper athletes (ages 12-16) are presently training to earn a spot on the 24-member squad. The Team Canada national squads were named in December, and an unprecedented 12 members were selected from the present Mustang teams (eight from Coed and four from All-Girl). They join returning National program vets Kaitlyn Harvey and Kurt Ford, along with Coach Trace, to make a large Mustang presence heading to the World Championships in April. PCG

has also been selected as one The Fanshawe Black Falcons finished of the National 2nd in the nation Team training facilities this year. While National teams and World Championships are very exciting, the heart and soul of the Power Cheer Gym is the athletes that comprise the competitive Viper teams. From the most novice beginner to the elite seniors preparing for university, the staff and coaches of PCG are dedicated to the development of the athletes and the nurturing of a love for the sport. PCG offers eight different age and ability-based teams. Most teams have openings for late season additions – call 519667-0565 or email PCG@PowerCheerGym. com for information, reduced mid-year pricing, and a visit!

www.powercheergym.com

Coach Garrett leads the team – and the nation

Stangs on Team Canada: Pfeiffer, Wong, Edmonds, Roberts, Im

PCG Vipers and the ‘Red Ops’ Junior National project

Mustangs Coed win their 32nd National Crown

Over 120 collegiate-aged cheerleaders train at Power Cheer Gym

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Chasing the cheer high Submitted by CheerStrike The sport of competitive cheerleading is growing quickly in Ontario and most people don’t know why – until they try it – then they understand. Why are so many young athletes and families committing to the sport? In our experience, kids attend one practice and end up hooked; they cannot wait to get back in the gym or to devour all things cheer on social media. Many families attend their first

competition and end up hooked, counting the days until the next weekend at competition. But what is it about cheer that people are falling in love with? We believe it’s the entertainment level of the sport and the comradery of the team atmosphere. Cheerleading competitions are big shows, with lights and sound, taking place in large venues. Athletes get ad-

CheerStrike teams, Youth Reign and Mini Monarchs, competing in Oshawa in December

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dicted to the high of running out on the floor with their team and being cheered on by the crowds. Succeeding as a team, instead of as an individual, feels more meaningful and is cause for greater celebration. Parents get addicted to seeing their child have the confidence to perform while bonding with other parents over their shared anxiety, pride and joy. Cheer is difficult to do well, so when all goes as planned it’s a reason for celebration. It takes every teammate bringing their best for that one shot at success. It takes a community of coaches and parents who support the athletes through the obstacles and challenges. If you’re interested in finding out firsth and why so many athletes are choosing cheer, check out our website.

www.cheerstrikeroyals.com

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An Extreme partnership By Richelle Hirlehey Dance Extreme is excited to announce their new partnership with the London Lightning Dance Pak. Rebecca BrettinghamFilice, Owner and Artistic Director of Dance Extreme, serves as the Artistic Director for the London Lightning Dance Pak. In conjunction with the London Lightning Director of Marketing and

Communications, Carolyn Botten, they coordinate and run the London Lightning Dance Pak, which is comprised of a Junior and Senior Dance Pak. Both the Junior and Senior London Lightning Dance Paks perform at every basketball game. The Junior Dance Pak is comprised of many high school-aged dancers from around London area, and the Senior Dance Pak is made up of many talented university-level students from around the London area. The London

Lightning Dance Pak provides high-energy, entertaining dance performances for thousands of basketball fans, and they lead an upbeat dance party on the court during the halftime break. Miss Natalie Toll, Dance Extreme Instructor and Choreographer, is also the Choreographer for the London Lightning Dance Pak. Her intricate, eye-catching choreography keeps fans engaged and entertained at all of the London Lightning games. Dance Extreme is thrilled to host this new partnership with the London Lightning. Dance Extreme and DX Dance Boutique are the official sponsors of the Senior and Junior Lightning Dance Pak. “The London Lightning are proud to partner with Dance Extreme this year as the presenting sponsor of our Dance Pak,” said Carolyn Botten, the Lightning’s director of marketing and communications. “Artistic Director Rebecca Brettingham and choreographer Natalie Toll bring an incredible vision and new direction which will take the Lightning Dance Pak to a new level. We’re excited to see what’s in store this year.” For game schedule information to check out a basketball game and the London Lightning Dance Pak, visit www. lightningbasketball.ca. For more information on Dance Extreme, please visit

Dance Extreme is excited to partner with the London Lightning Dance Pak, which performs for thousands of basketball fans throughout the Lightning season at Budweiser Gardens

www.danceextreme.com

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Swimmers close 2017 with success Submitted by the London Aquatic Club Widely regarded as one of the world's best competitive swimming teachers, Steve Haufler of the Orinda Country Club Swim Sharks, near San Francisco, California, came to London on Oct. 21-22 to deliver a coaching clinic to the London Aquatic Club coaching staff. Steve led 16 of our coaches through five hours of class time and three hours in the pool, teaching skills to some of our youngest swimmers, and giving a talk to a group of LAC parents.

LAC swimmers show well at Nothers Invitational There was lots of great racing at this year's Nothers Invitational, held Nov.

24-26, with 700 swimmers from 15 clubs competing. Over 900 LAC individual swims were either personal bests or were successfully swum for the first time; 75 LAC swimmers achieved 100% personal bests; 44 LAC swimmers won a total of 136 medals in individual events, including 33 gold, 49 silver,

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Sydney, Nikola and Emilee, first-time LAC All-Time Top 10 performers (at Nothers 2017)

and 54 bronze; 44 other LAC swimmers achieved at least one top 8 finish in an individual event; and eight swimmers achieved either a first-time Regional or Provincial Championship time standard. Congratulations!

Steve Haufler teaches young LAC’ers

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Diving into the new year Submitted by Forest City Diving Club With the season well underway, we would like to take this opportunity to highlight upcoming events to get to know the Forest City Diving Club (FCDC) program. Are you looking for a March Break Camp that gives your children the opportunity to learn about the exciting sport of diving? Look no further. Campers will not only be instructed in the fundamental skills of diving, but they’ll also have fun in a friendly and nourishing environment. To participate in our March Break Diving Camp, no previous knowledge of the sport is necessary, as those unfamiliar with the sport will learn all about diving skills, as well as water safety, all under the watchful eye of a Provincial Level Diving Coach at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre. A typical day at camp includes warmup activities and pool time (diving will be from 1M, 3M and tower). Each day’s theme is reflected in exercises, crafts and games. Between 4pm and 5pm, parents are encouraged to watch their children’s progress. Early beforecare (8:30am drop-off) and after-care (5:30pm pickup) are available. For more information, please, visit our website! www.ForestCityDiving.com.

classes. We understand that an adult schedule differs greatly from that of school-aged children, so we are now offering a 10-visit pass for adults. Classes run on Fridays from 6:15-7:15pm. Come any Friday during the 2017-2018 season, and if you bring a friend and have them sign up, you’ll earn a free class! Passes are renewable at your convenience!

ments, including Provincial Record Breakers (Katelyn and Nigel) and Divers of the Year (Nigel, Nathan, Faith and Al’x) Meanwhile, FCDC members representing Team Ontario include Alexa, Nigel, Katelyn, Camryn, Anika, Faith and Joshua. FCDC has been their ‘diving home’ for many years, and we are pleased to have them as part of our London diving family!

National-level divers recognized by Dive Ontario

www.forestcitydiving.com

Our national level divers have been doing exceedingly well. Under the guidance of our head coaches, Luda Zakharenko and Wing Yun Hu, they have achieved excellent results at the provincial, national and international levels. In the fall of 2017, several Forest City Divers were recognized at a Dive Ontario banquet for their achieve-

There’s something for everyone at the Forest City Diving Club, which offers March Break Camps, ‘Learn to Dive’ programs – for both youth and adults, and competitive opportunities for divers at the local, provincial and national level

PLOUF Program - Spring Session starts end of March This Dive Ontario-sanctioned program is designed specifically to teach our young athletes core skills inherent to the sport of diving, as well as core life skills, such as communication, support, inclusion, resiliency, courage, strength and grace. The program consists of six skill levels. Instruction will be on 1M, 3M, and depending on the comfort level of each child, on Platform as well. Our Spring session is 10 weeks in length, and classes are 1-hour long. There is one instructor for a maximum of eight children.

FCDC Adult ‘Learn to Dive’ At FCDC, we understand that the sport of diving is not only attractive to the youngsters, but the adults as well. In our program now are Adult Recreational

FCDC members who represent Team Ontario: Back row (left to right): Anika, Faith, Head Coach Luda, Coach Wing, Nathan. Front row: Joshua, Camryn, Katelyn, Alexa, Nigel.

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Medals, records adding up Submitted by Middlesex Swimming The Middlesex Swimming club was home with 32 medals (17 gold, 11 silver, Congratulations to the women! busy in the pool throughout the fall and four bronze) while setting 17 new club reInterested in joining Middlesex early winter, and swimmers of all ages cords in the process. Cameron Teasdale, Swimming or learning more about the have enjoyed much success during the 16, swam to a pair of gold medals (50m program? season. and 200m breaststroke) while breaking Email info@middlesexswimming.ca On Dec. 4, some of the youngest the Middlesex club record in both events. www.middlesexswimming.ca Middlesex swimmers got their feet wet Kathryn Ivanov, 14, also set two at the ISS Acapulco Invitational meet in new club records while earning Ingersoll, Ont. Ten swimmers 9 years of gold medals in the 50m and 100m age and under represented Middlesex, breaststroke events. and for many it was their first taste of On the water polo front, the competition. Overall, the team captured Middlesex crew competed in the six gold medals, along with four silver Hamilton Early Bird Tournament in and seven bronze. Six-year-old Zachary mid-November, and the women’s Watson earned three gold medals himteam won a silver medal, losing self, in the 25m freestyle, 25m breastto Southwest in the gold-medal stroke and 50m backstroke events. game. They earned a spot in the Five-year-old Grace Cao, meanwhile, final after earning wins against earned two gold medals of her own (25m Hammer (7-5) and Hamilton (6-4). The Middlesex women’s water polo team earned a silver medal at the Hamilton Early Bird Tournament in November freestyle and 50m backstroke). Forty swimmers represented Middlesex at the Border City Invitational meet in Windsor, Ont. (Dec. 8-10), which featured more than 900 competitors overall – from across Ontario as well as Michigan. The Forty Middlesex swimmers brought home a combined 32 medals from the Border City Invitational At the ISS Acapulco Invitational meet in Ingersoll, Middlesex Middlesex club came meet in Windsor, while setting numerous club records swimmers (all 9 years of age and under) won 17 medals

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Chasing the ‘golden skate’

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Contributions by Erin Boyd and photos by Laura Plank One thing is for sure: the skaters on the Synchronicity Elementary Sr. synchro team are passionate about their sport and their desire to improve. In addition to practicing twice a week (four hours in total), including training on the floor as well as on the ice, each of the girls (aged 10 to 13) skate on their own once or twice a week as well. “They’re extremely dedicated to their craft and their skill development,” says Erin Boyd, the coach of the team, which skates out of the London Skating Club. “Their goal this season is to have a com-

pletely golden skate – where all elements are ranked to a gold standard.” What that means is reaching the highest mark by a judging panel, which ranks elements on a gold, silver and bronze standard. The girls perform blocks, circle, line and wheel formations, as well as intersection – in which two lines skate through each other at a high speed. So far, the team has enjoyed much success during the 2017-18 season. And in December, the Synchronicity team won a bronze medal at the Bill Phillips Memorial Synchronized Skating competition in Stratford. The event included a field of 13 teams from all across Ontario.

www.londonskatingclub.com

The Synchronicity Elementary Sr. team at the London Skating Club: (Left to right): Lexa Hammer-Healy, Shoshanna Rogan, Gabriela Perez, Lauren Suozzi, Sofia Perez, Kyana Reis-Santos, Adrianna Keith, Isla St.John, Bailey Gardian, Ana-Sofia Guiot, Emma Preete, Jessica Knight, Sydney Plank, Cali Jones, Amber Lovell. Absent: Cassidy Falconer and Emma Stanklewicz

The Synchronicity squad, made up of female skaters aged 10 to 13, earned a bronze medal in December at the Bill Phillips Memorial Synchronized Skating competition in Stratford

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‘TEAM’ motto key to success Contributions by Marc van de Ven and Hilary Kustermans For the Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs AAA Minor Atom team, it’s all about the ‘Team’ motto – Together Everyone Achieves More. It’s a mantra that everyone involved with the club, including players, coaches, staff and parents, has bought into, and it has resulted not only in a lot of success on the ice, but also a great atmosphere for young kids playing the game of hockey. Playing in the Alliance League (AAA), the Minor Atom Chiefs are made up of 17 players (nine forwards, six defencemen, and two goalies), all nine years of age (b. 2008). And despite the fact that only a small number of those players had played together previously, and then only during spring programs and not a full winter season, the team has gelled phenomenally well. So well that in November the Chiefs

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won the International Silverstick Championship in Whitby, Ont., in the process becoming the organization’s first Minor Atom team to do so. Marc van de Ven, the team’s head coach, says the biggest challenge involved in coaching 17 kids from varying backgrounds is to create a cohesive unit that supports each other on the ice – in all three zones –

chance to win – and as a team. “They have an impressive knowledge of the game, but the difference-maker is that they also understand and are cognizant of how 9-year-old players think and learn,” says Kustermans. “And they maintain the fun and love of the game for the kids, while also developing their confidence and skills and abilities. Our kids are very lucky to have such talented, dedicated coaches.”

“It’s all about the ‘Team’ motto – Together Everyone Achieves More.” as well as off the ice. For her part, Hilary Kustermans, the team’s manager, believes the coaching staff has done a remarkable job on that front, helping to give the youngsters their best

www.elginmiddlesexchiefs.com

Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs AAA Minor Atom team: Back row (left to right): Marc van de Ven (Head Coach), Greg Jenney (Asst. Coach), Cory Brekelmans (Asst. Coach), Bryon Budden (Trainer). Standing: James MacGregor, Austin Brekelmans, Kailer Jenney, Noah Mitoraj, Parker Vaughan, Jaden van de Ven, Jacob Vandeven, Callum Savage. Kneeling: Raiden Doxtator, Will Bos, William Wright, Ty Lawson, Michael The Minor Atom Chiefs celebrate their International Silverstick ChamKustermans, Luke Thomas, Chace Stokley. Front row: Edmund Docherty, Grayson VanderVelden. pionships win in Whitby, Ont. in November

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