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London

Sports dinner inspires

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MARCH/APRIL 2018

Contributions by Start.ca and photos by Holt That Pose Event Photography In February, the annual London Sports Celebrity Dinner again featured big-name athletes – including celebrated soccer player Christine Sinclair – while raising money for the Thames Valley Children’s Centre (TVCC). And Start.ca enjoyed every moment. As this year’s title sponsor, for the first time ever, Start.ca got on board after attending last year (for the first time) and coming away inspired. The company’s CEO, Peter Rocca, was particularly moved by a speech made by Dr. LaPorta of the TVCC. So, when the company was approached to sponsor the event this year, they wanted to do more, says Start.ca’s marketing coordinator, Sarah Imrie. “Being involved [in the community] is one of Start’s core values, and we are honoured to play a small part in helping support the great work that the Centre does,” Imrie said. As always, the night included celebrity interaction, entertainment, and auction packages, as well as stories shared by youngsters who have been impacted by the Thames Valley Children’s Centre

2018 Sports Celebrity Dinner and Auction

London & Area Edition

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bowling............................................ pg 4 fitness......................................... pgs 6-7 baseball..................................... pgs 8-11 soccer...................................... pgs 12-16 aquatics.................................. pgs 18-20 lacrosse......................................... pg 21 martial arts............................. pgs 24-25 squash.................................... pgs 26-27 volleyball................................ pgs 26-29 basketball............................... pgs 30-32 golf..........................................pgs 31-32 gymnastics.............................. pgs 35-36 cheerleading........................... pgs 37-38 dance...................................... pgs 39-40 football.......................................... pg 42 hockey.................................... pgs 43-54

– including Jordyn, the 2018 TVCC Ambassador. Jordyn has overcome many struggles, including learning to walk with the help of TVCC from the time she was two years old. “Now,” Imrie said, “she’s not only walking, but she’s running and skating! Jordyn’s story showcased exactly how the TVCC helps children in our community.” Jordyn received a special video message from Toronto Maple Leafs player (and former London Knight) Mitch Marner, one of her favourite hockey players. “She was the star of the night,” said Imrie. “This beautiful 7-year-old girl stood up in front of a room filled with hundreds of strangers and expressed her story with grace and bravery – and all with a sparkle in her eye.”

Cover photo by Antony Chodas of Forest City Image/CameraCanada Sports Centre. Picture of Logan Tallevi, Hardy Powers, Jaxon Brush, Cameron Scott, Jack Matthison.

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Jordyn Ferguson (2018 TVCC Client Ambassador) and Peter Rocca (CEO of Start.ca)

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Head table celebrities and the team from Start.ca

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London

It’s a party, and you’re invited!

Your Community

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Sports Connection

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

Submitted by Bowlerama Royale Bowlerama Royale owners, Brenda Dottermann and Mark Decman, started the new year off with a major change. After self-managing the facility since their purchase in 2015, the pair were very pleased to announce the hiring of Chris Mortlock as general manager. Mortlock’s role of overseeing the staff and facilities through ‘fresh eyes’ has already been a welcome and required change. A budding bowling prodigy, Mortlock has an extensive background in business, consulting, sales and hospitality management, including a smidge of experience with AMF in the early 90’s. On Feb. 1, Chris showed up on scene in the form of a ‘life-sized cut-out’ in the foyer, and he has been personally creating a stir ever since. Mortlock, Decman and Dottermann have numerous events planned for Bowlerama Royale in the coming weeks

and months. In addition to league nights, adult and youth tournaments, and fundraising events, there are also many special events planned. New to the roster will be Community and Theme Nights, Show and Shines, and other Fun Nights, including the monthly ‘Whose LANE is it anyway? IMPROV Night.’ The management team is looking forward to a fun-filled future. As Mortlock says, “Our vision for the business is a party! When it comes to hosting a party, we always want to make sure our house is ready for our guests. From food preparation, beverage selection and facility management, we are getting that party ready!” When you are looking for a great party, and family fun, come to the east side for the Royale treatment! See you there!

www.bowleramaroyale.com

Photo by Chris Mortlock Bowlerama Royale has some special events planned, including theme nights. It’s always a party down at Bowlerama Royale!

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

Todd Devlin Alyssa MacLeod Britt Cobean

CONTRIBUTORS Richelle Hirlehey, Tyler Schepens, Carlos Preza, Mikayla Finnerty, Beth White, Adam Casey, Margaret Fountain, Ryan Stewart, Jeremy Jayaweera, Jim Taylor, Karl Rob, Rich Palser, Bowlerama Royale, BodyWorx, LDBA Baseball, Sport Clips London, Centrefield Sports, George Bray Sports Association, Christie Rose Memorial Award, London Lightning, The Little Gym of London, EBBA, Forest City Volleyball Club, CrossCourt Volleyball, MEC, London Sharks Volleyball, Jazzercise London, BMO Centre, Ellis Hockey Detail, GOT GAME Sports, London Mens Baseball League, London Minor Lacrosse Association, Boys & Girls Club of London, Family Karate, Start.ca, FC LONDON, London Volleyball Club, Western Mustangs, London Minor Football Association, Power Cheer Gym, Middlesex Swimming, CheerStrike, Olympic Karate, London Aquatic Club, the SportsXpress Team and local sports enthusiasts. PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS Ian MacAlpine, Keith Blois, Joanna Kuroski, Don Rycroft, Holt That Pose Event Photography, Forest City Image Centre/CameraCanada Sports, BodyWorx, LDBA Baseball, Dance Extreme, Woodstock Navy Vets, Family Karate, Sport Clips London, Centrefield Sports, Forest City Gymnastics, George Bray Sports Association, Mount Brydges Cougars Hockey, Ontario Nationals, London Nationals, Christie Rose Memorial Award, The Little Gym of London, Forest City Volleyball Club, Jazzercise London, GOT GAME Sports, Kiwanis Seniors’ Centre, London Sharks Volleyball, London Junior Golf Development Centre, CrossCourt Volleyball, Boys & Girls Club of London, London Knights, MEC, London Mens Baseball League, BMO Centre, FC LONDON, Olympic Karate, Bowlerama Royale, London Minor Football Association, Middlesex Swimming, CheerStrike, Power Cheer Gym, London Aquatic Club, Picture Day Photography, the SportsXpress Team, various sports group photographers and community sports fans. London SportsXpress is an independently owned and operated member of the SportsXpress Network

Photo by Chris Mortlock ‘Chris Mortlock’ showed up as a life-sized cut-out. The real Mortlock has brought fresh eyes into Bowlerama Royale as the centre’s general manager

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Photo by Austin Decman Brenda Dotterman, Chris Mortlock, and Mark Decman

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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The weight loss question… Submitted by BodyWorx “How long will it take me to lose 10 pounds…?” This is probably one of the most common, if not THE most common, question I get asked by new clients. The answer? There is no clear answer. There are many factors that go into losing 10 pounds. The person beside you may be able to lose it in the recommended 1-2lbs per week scenario, while it might take you four months.

Factors: • Commitment to change • Readiness to learn and be outside of your comfort zone • Beginning phase - Many factors affect this: Are you well overweight? Have you yo-yo dieted for years? Or maybe you just recently put it on?

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• What is your current nutrition like and how open are you to change? • Trusting the process

Nothing changes if nothing changes! Typically, I recommend that new clients start with a plan to train and learn about eating habits for a minimum of three months. Sure, you can start to lose right away, but my experience has taught me that most people aren’t fully prepared to commit to change prior to that initial three months. Small changes, yes, but bigger ones that make the difference takes some time. Here’s how to self start: Weeks 1-4: Cardio/HITT training 4 to 6 times a week for a minimum of 45 minutes. Weeks 4-8: Start to incorporate some plyometric strength training (small weights, lots of reps and movement-based exercise). Weeks 8-12: Two days of weight-based exercise followed by 30 minutes of cardio, and 2 to 3 days of HITT training for a minimum of 45 minutes.

Nutrition is a large Tania Admans part of your success. ‘Weekday warriors’ nutrition just doesn’t work. This is no different than yo-yo dieting. A common sentiment is ‘I’ve eaten great all week. It’s just the weekend. I’m not prepared to get rid of everything.’ That’s a fair concern. People want to live life and enjoy it. And you can still do that while eating amazing food, exercising, and feeling energized AND achieving your goals. It’s all about the willingness to make those changes and commit to your own successes. As a trainer, I can help you to put all of those pieces into perspective. Phase training for both exercise and nutrition work hand in hand. Before you know it, you’ve changed your outlook on how to eat, what to eat, and how much to eat (believe me, it’s a lot!). My success is when you succeed. Follow us on Twitter/Facebook/ Instagram!

www.bodyworxtraining.com BodyWorx 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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5 reasons to sign up for a 5k Submitted by MEC The idea of a running race might excite you – maybe you’ve got some races under your belt and you’re confident you’ll have a good time at another. On the other hand, though, maybe ‘racing’ conjures up not-so-fond memories of grade school track and field days. If so, don’t fear! For most people, MEC events aren’t about competing against others – but rather against yourself. Here are five reasons why you should add a 5k race – or any distance, really – to your calendar in 2018 … 1. External motivation works like a charm. There’s nothing like knowing you have a 5k coming up to get you out the door on a cold, rainy training morning. For many runners who have fallen off the regular running train, a deadline on the calendar provide the outside push they need to get back to their routine. Those newer to running will be amazed at how powerful a countdown to a public opportunity to show off your fitness can be. 2. A race is an opportunity. For many, running and making time for fitness can be a struggle. It can feel like a win to just get out the door for that same old walk or jog you’ve been doing for ages. But to make progress, and to benefit your health and fitness, you need to challenge yourself in some new way –

going further, faster, or doing something and taking pictures to document their outside your normal routine. Signing up day. Surrounding yourself with that kind for a race is a perfect opportunity to do of energy is a fantastic way to build your just that as you take better care of yourconfidence and to remind you why you self and your body.. started running in the first place.. 3. Variety is the spice of life. 5. Inspiration is easy to come by at Race courses, even when in your races. hometown, usually take participants to Maybe it’s the woman pushing a new areas of a city. In London, where the stroller with twins who crosses the finish Thames Valley Parkway winds alongside line as you’re enjoying your post-race Clif the river, many local races combine the bar. Or perhaps it’s the older man and path with quiet streets that might show his grandson who cross the line together, you a side of the city you never knew giving each other a hug as they finish. existed. Rather than walking, jogging, Wherever you look, there’s inspiration or running the same old loop around to be found. And you might be inspiring your neighborhood, maybe you’ll end up someone too – what you’re doing could inspired to see the city by foot. be the reason someone else laces up 4. The post-race sense of accomplishtheir own running shoes someday! ment is worth the entry fee. events.mec.ca Whether your race day goes as planned or not, finishing a race is something to be proud of. Pushing yourself – whether simply by signing up for a race or by challenging yourself to go faster or further – is worth celebrating. The finishing area is filled with people giving of all ages and abilities. There are plenty of reasons to get high-fives and hugs, The MEC Race Series brings out runners out to a MEC race in 2018

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Volunteers make it happen Submitted by Eager Beaver Baseball Association and photo by Keith Blois Another year of EBBA baseball is ahead, with an eager group of players and volunteers. There are many new faces, and many returning faces. And there’s always a need for more volunteer help in operating London’s longest-run-

ning youth sports program. Interested in volunteering? Consider what Keith Blois, convener for the Little Slugger division, has to say about his own experiences: “For the past few years, I have volunteered at various positions within EBBA and many parents ask why I do it, or remark at how good I am at it,” Blois says. “The truth is, like many volunteers, I had very little idea what I was doing when I first volunteered to join EBBA. How do I coach? How will the kids react to me? What kind of support will I get? These are all typical and normal questions to ask yourself. However, you quickly realize that as long as you are there for the right reasons, you enjoy baseball, and you want to make things better for your child, you will succeed – and it is very rewarding. The (Left to right): League President Rick Peters, Volunteer of the Year Laura Kaufman, Ed Berryhill (nephew of league founder, Gordon Berryhill) joy on the kids’ faces, making a

difference in your child’s sports interest, the high fives, the thankyous, and the laughter are all amazing.” EBBA is the longest running youth sports program in London, Ontario, and its longevity is no accident. The returning volunteers work with the new volunteers to ensure that every child is given the best experience possible. They put the children first and are really there for the kids. Registration is open until March 31. EBBA offers a house league baseball program for players born from 1996 to 2014. When you register your child for EBBA this year, please take some time to think about volunteering. If you are going to be at the games anyways, why not join your child on the field? It is a very rewarding experience, and your child will thank you. Go to ebba.ca to register now!

www.ebba.ca

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

Detroit Red Wings vs Apr 5 Montreal Canadiens - $209

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Toronto Blue Jays vs June 16 June 30

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July 7 July 13-15

New York Yankees - $99 Boston Red Sox - $800 (In Boston, 3 days)

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. Road Trip Partners 8

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Time for Spring Training! Submitted by Centrefield Sports With mixed reviews from the groundhogs on the countdown to spring, Centrefield Sports has you covered for all your indoor athletic needs as we stave off the final weeks of winter and get you ready for the baseball season for when better weather approaches! While you look to prepare your teams for their regular season, don't miss an opportunity to take some ground balls and get some swings in before the competition begins. Limited space remains available at the facility, so contact us to rent the field or batting cages soon. Highlighting our spring season at the

facility will be our March Break camp â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with options for your player to attend on individual days, half days, or for the entire week â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and our four-week rookie and mosquito leagues through the month of April, which provide an opportunity to work the winter rust off the glove and gear up for summer. This year's March Break camp will feature instruction from former major league catcher Chris Robinson, and former professional pitcher Shane Davis, with all full-day, full-week attendees receiving a progress report at the end of the five-day program to aid in development as the

players move forward. Our summer baseball camps will be hosted by the Byron Optimist Sports Complex from July 9 to 13, July 30 to August 3, and August 13 to 17, with quality time on the field in programs developed and run by collegiate and professional-level players. Outside of our lessons, camps, clinics, leagues and rentals, memberships to Centrefield Sports are flexible and available in accommodating packages to suit all of your athletic needs!

www.centrefieldsports.com

A look at some Peewee league action at Centrefield Sports, which offers playing opportunities and top-notch instruction from former professional ball players

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Time to ‘Play Ball!’ Submitted by London Mens Baseball League Plans are well underway in preparation for the London Mens Baseball League’s 26th consecutive season in 2018. The LMBL is getting ready to field 14 teams again this summer – showing amazing growth since its inception in 1992 as a 4-team league. Much of this success can be attributed to the tireless efforts of the volunteer Executive and Team Managers, who take on the responsibility of operating this not-for-profit organization. While keeping in mind the vision of its

original founders, ‘to provide an opportunity for men to enjoy recreational baseball in an environment where goodwill dominates competitiveness,’ recent growth has led to several challenges. For instance, Dale Crannie, President of the LMBL, had this to say: “What started as a ‘Sunday night’ league has morphed into a ‘Sunday any time’ league simply due to logistics. Finding diamond time for two or four games on a Sunday evening in the London area was fairly easy to

accommodate, but increase that to seven games each Sunday and you have a more daunting task. Additional rainouts and an increasing demand for diamond time from minor baseball has also led to more planning on an ongoing basis.” But it seems to work out – and league participants are always excited to lace up their cleats and step onto the field at Labatt Park each spring (the world’s oldest continually used baseball grounds!). The league also makes a traditional stop at the St. Mary’s Hall of Fame diamonds each Fathers Day for a day of games, giving families the opportunity to visit the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame while in town, or simply have a BBQ and go for a swim in the quarry. As the saying goes, “There’s only one thing to do when it’s not baseball season, and that’s to prepare for baseball season!” If that’s the case, the LMBL is doing things right! For more information about the LMBL and how to participate, visit our website at

www.lmblbaseball.ca

The London Mens Baseball League is excited to open its 26th season this spring, which often features action at the historic Labatt Park (shown above).

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

FOR AN IN-HOME DESIGN CONSULTATION CALL 519 661 - 6895

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Baseball is back! Submitted by LDBA Baseball The 2018 baseball season is almost upon us, and thousands of young athletes from across the London District Baseball Association (LDBA) are waiting for the first hint of green scattered amongst the snow on our city diamonds. The 2017 season proved to be another very successful year for the LDBA and its affiliates, and with warmer weather on the horizon, it won’t be long before we hear the call of ‘Play Ball!’ from our local umpires. All affiliates of the LDBA currently have their registrations open and are in full swing. Kids are signing up in droves, and all organizations are busy planning this year’s teams. Winter workouts are also up and running for most organizations, and this is a great opportunity for athletes of all levels – from House League to Competitive – to get some extra work in and get their arm ready for the season ahead.

Winter workouts consist of strength and conditioning, skills analysis, and dynamic stretching, which will aid all those in their baseball aspirations. However, one of the most important aspects of winter workouts is the ability to make new friends and work as part of a team in an effort to improve – both individually and as a collective unit. If you are interested in joining your home association’s winter workouts, please visit their website for registration. All competitive programs across the

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

increased year over year since 2014. In 2018, we expect to field as many or more teams across all levels than ever before. If you are interested in trying out for an LDBA rep team but do not know which team you should be trying out for, please visit www.ldbabaseball.ca/ Pages/1190/Boundaries and enter your postal code. This will tell you your home association. Please remember that these boundaries have been set by LDBA and you must try out for your home association before being eligible for another.

“All affiliates of the LDBA currently have their registrations open and are in full swing.” LDBA and surrounding area are currently accepting registrations for their rep teams as well. The LDBA has a top-notch competitive program, and numbers have

www.northlondonbaseball.com

LDBA AFFILIATE ORGANIZATIONS London Tecumsehs www.londontecumsehs.com

London West Tincaps www.tincaps.ca

North London Nationals www.northlondonbaseball

St. Thomas Cardinals www.stthomasminorbaseball.com

London Badgers AAA www.Londonbadgers.com

Lucan/Ilderton www.ildertonbaseball.com

Deleware – Komoka – Mount Bridges www.dkmb.ca

Dorchester www.dorchesterbaseball.com

Strathroy www.strathroyminorbaseball.com The 2017 Minor PeeWee (b. 2005) OBA champion London West Tincaps

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Choosing the best haircut for you Submitted by Sport Clips London Let's face it, haircuts aren’t one-sizefits-all. So, you should choose the right haircut for your face shape: Oval: Wear your hair off your forehead to create some volume and angles on top. A classic shorter cut is ideal - short on the sides and slightly longer on the top, with a side-swept parting. Avoid a forward fringe. Too much heaviness on the forehead softens

features and increases roundness of the face. Square: Best styles are classic and neat haircuts: side partings, short layers, buzz cuts, French crops and fades tapered, low, mid, high, and scissor. Some light stubble improves the sharpness of your jawline. Rectangle: Avoid taking the sides too short or leaving too much length on top.

“Let's face it, haircuts aren’t one-size-fits-all.”

Let hair fall to the sides and/or across the forehead to add width. Stay away from a full beard - try stubble or a short beard. Round: Think square - a style with height on the top and tight at the sides like a pompadour or flat top. Square corners in the high recession area of your hair will sharpen any soft edges. A full square beard will give the appearance of a chiseled jaw. Open every day, Sport Clips Haircuts has three locations in London (all locally owned and operated): 1985 Hyde Park Rd, 1103 Adelaide St. N, and 3059 Wonderland Rd S. Visit us at www.sportclips.ca.

www.sportclips.ca Oval

Rectangle

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Round

Square

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BYRON NORWEST RECREATIONAL REGISTER NOW TO PLAY MAY - AUGUST Stage of Development

Year of Birth

Division

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Soccer 4 Life 11 vs 11

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NEW: Take your summer back! There will be no House League Soccer June 24th through July 8th. There will be no House League Soccer August 4th through August 12th

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Popular summer leagues return Submitted by the BMO Centre As a very busy fall/winter indoor season begins to wind down, the BMO Centre is ramping up for an exciting spring and summer. After six years of summer soccer at the BMO, we are pleased to announce that the ever-popular Women’s and Adult Co-Ed leagues will be returning again this year. And with our two new air-conditioned fields, we are also increasing our number of leagues! This summer, we are offering seven different leagues which will operate throughout the week. Mondays will be the Women’s Rec 101 – 25+ (7v7); Tuesdays will be the Adult Co-Ed (6v6) and Women’s Masters 35+ (7v7); Wednesday is Women’s Rec 20+ (7v7); Thursdays is Women’s Masters 30+ (7v7); Sunday morning will be Men’s Masters 45+ (7v7); and Sunday evenings will be Women’s Weekend M 30+ (7v7). Leagues will begin the week of May 7, 2018. Each year, the popularity of indoor summer soccer continues to grow, and we are thrilled (and a little surprised) by the number of players who tell us how much they enjoy playing indoors during the summer months. Certainly, the introduction of our industrial fans last summer, together with the new air-conditioned

fields this year, will undoubtedly bring us more players than ever. Meanwhile, due to an ongoing demand, the BMO Centre will again be operating the BMO Soccer Academy during the spring and summer months for ages 2 to 12 years old. Parents continue to tell us how valuable this skills and drills program is, and we are proud of the excellent coaching that has become a

trademark of the Academy. The program will run every Saturday between 10:00am – 12:00pm for 10 weeks, beginning May 26, 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, with its recent expansion, is thrilled to welcome another busy indoor summer season in 2018, and will even be increasing the number of leagues to allow more players to enjoy the great game!

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Soccer club lining up 2018 action Submitted by FC LONDON Local championship soccer club FC LONDON is well into planning for their 2018 season, which will see the inaugural year of their strong relationship with MLS Champions Toronto FC, as well as a change to a red, grey and white colour scheme and a clothing manufacturer change to the soccer giant Adidas. Part of this change is the brand for the youth academy to ‘London TFC Academy,’ which is focused on the development and identification of girls and boys aged 8 to 17, all of whom will play in the Ontario Academy Soccer League. This top league in Ontario will grow significantly this season with the addition of 30+ clubs from the SAAC leagues, bringing the total club

count to well over 40. “We’ll have teams in five separate leagues this season and a full elite pathway from age 8 to semi-pro … for both male and female players,” says Ian Campbell, the founder of FC LONDON. “With the addition of OPDL to our league matrix, we’re bringing top coaches (Jon Hasson and Paulo Sousa) together with top players, and we’re building a pyramid of play that will serve the London soccer community well for years to come.” A key component of OPDL is also affiliations with local organizations operating Youth Amateur Teams in Regional Leagues. With that in mind, OPDL licensee London TFC Academy has signed an affiliation agreement with local youth soccer powerhouse St. Thomas Soccer Club, a club that boasts over 2,000 partici-

London TFC Academy players start the season off right with a trip to see the London Lightning while wearing their new Adidas gear with red/white branding

pants and 140 teams. The affiliation will allow St. Thomas players, specifically those who are born in 2005 and will play in U13 leagues in 2018, to be ‘called up’ to boys and girls London TFC Academy teams throughout the season to play in OPDL games. “This is a true pathway in alignment with Ontario Soccer’s vision of player development,” said Rob Cameron, President of St. Thomas Soccer Club. “From young players through to young adults, this affiliation creates defined and real opportunities for those that have a vision of playing at a higher level.” Beyond OASL and OPDL, U21 teams will participate in their respective U21 leagues, and the League1 teams will both work toward league dominance in another run to the championship. Keep track of all the FC LONDON news.

www.fclondon.ca

The London TFC Academy logo, colours, and Adidas clothing are all new for 2018!

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Summer camps coming soon! Submitted by Boys & Girls Club of London Boys & Girls Club of London summer day camps offer a wide range of engaging and innovative summer programming for children and youth. We’re excited to give children a summer of fun, creativity, and inspiration.

We are pleased to be able to offer a variety of activities, including sports, culinary, digital arts, science, creative arts, and leadership opportunities. Out-trips are also included as part of the camp experience.

Various camps are on tap for the Boys & Girls Club of London this summer, and they’ll allow children and youth in the area to experience fun, creativity and inspiration – as well as creating lifelong memories!

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This summer, a number of different camps will operate from July 3 through to August 31. Cost includes a healthy and nutritious lunch and two snacks per day. Early drop-off and late pick-up are available. All Stars and Master Chef Junior camps are back by popular demand, offering lots of physical activity and culinary fun. Those interested in the creative arts can take advantage of Beyond the Crayons. T(w)een Club is a camp that offers the opportunity to participate in traditional camp activities and service learning projects. Digital Arts Academy offers campers an introduction to a variety of digital mediums and gives campers the opportunity to learn basic photography while exploring other creative outlets to work on their artistic skills. For more information, please visit our website at

www.bgclondon.ca

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Bentley Hearing recognizes Sporting Seniors Featuring: the Kiwanis Seniors' Centre – Line Dancing group

Get in line! Contributions by Margaret Fountain and photo by SportsXpress Team Have you ever tried line dancing? If not, you’re missing out! Just ask Margaret Fountain, the line dancing group instructor at London’s Kiwanis Seniors’ Centre. She’s been teaching the activity for 15 years, and has been involved with the Seniors’ Centre for two decades. And she’s always seeing new people pick up the activity and become regulars! “Our class always shows growth because it’s fun, and it’s good exercise,” says Fountain, whose class sizes are usually 70 people. “It’s also a great way to meet new people.”

If you’re not familiar, line dancing is a lot like how it sounds: it involves a group dance in which the dancers stand sideby-side in one or more lines as they perform a series of dance moves in unison. Line dances usually involve repeated moves that follow a pattern. Though it was originally performed almost exclusively to country music, that’s no longer the case. And at the Kiwanis Seniors’ Centre, Margaret’s classes dance to various types of music, including Irish and modern. And it’s happening down at the Centre (at 78 Riverside Dr. in London) every Wednesday from

1:00-2:00pm, all year round. And the benefits are plenty. For starters, line dancing is a great workout. You can burn between 300 and 800 calories in an hour session while improving your cardiovascular health and strengthen your bones and joints. Meanwhile, the activity is a good way to keep your brain active, and also to meet new people and form new friendships. “Another great thing about line dancing is that you don’t need a partner,” says Fountain. “So, it’s easier for ladies to get involved if they don’t have a partner.”

The line dancing group at the Kiwanis Seniors’ Centre enjoys a great turnout thanks to the many benefits of the activity – and the fact that it’s fun!

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Hosts prevail at London’s largest event Submitted by the London Aquatic Club The London Aquatic Club (LAC) once again prevailed at the Western Ontario Swimming Association Regional Championships Feb. 2-4 at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre. LAC was crowned the overall team champion for the 5th consecutive season, topping teams from Guelph, Hamilton, Windsor and Waterloo. There were over 1,100 swimmers who competed over the very busy 3-day event, and out of the 100 LAC swimmers competing, 37 collected a total of 99 medals in individual events (36 gold, 26 silver, and 37 bronze), while another 20 swimmers finished in the top 8 to score points for their team. Meanwhile, 21 swimmers achieved 100% personal bests. The competition was a huge undertaking, probably one of the biggest events that will occur in Ontario – and perhaps

Canada – this year, and it would not have happened without the tremendous team of parent volunteers which LAC boasts. This was easily the largest event ever hosted at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre.

Next up for LAC swimmers are the provincial championship events in Ottawa, Etobicoke and Markham, as well as national events in Montreal and Windsor.

www.londonaquaticclub.ca

LAC swimmers who qualified for a provincial championship event for the first time with their respective performances at the regional championships in London include (from left to right): Ryan, Jacob, Naeve, Caitlin, Isabelle, and Haley

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Hardware for hard work Submitted by Middlesex Swimming The Middlesex Swimming Club fared well at the Western Regional Championships in February, which was held in their own backyard at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre in London. The event, a qualifier for the provincial championships, welcomed more than 600 athletes from 28 teams across Southwestern Ontario. Thirty-three of those competitors were Middlesex Swimming athletes, and together they captured 20 medals overall, including seven gold medals, eight silver, and five bronze. On the girls side, the Club was led by 14-year-old Alexis Harback, who earned three medals at the meet, including a gold in the 50m Freestyle event, a silver

Alexis Harback, winner of the girls 14-year-old 50m Freestyle event

in 100m Freestyle, and a bronze in the 200m Individual Medley event. Meanwhile, Bronwyn MacLeod, 15, took home a gold and a silver medal, while Kathryn Ivanov, 14, also earned one of the girls’ three gold medals at the meet. Julia Geurten (12), Marissa Mann (17 and over), and Sheila Treleaven (17 and over) each swam to silver medals. On the boys side, Quinn Nolan, 16, earned plenty of hardware, including a gold, a silver, and three bronze medals at the regional event. Ethan Jantzi (15) won both the 50m and 200m Breaststroke events in his age category, while Hayden Aziz (16) earned one gold and one silver medal, Cameron Teasdale (16) won a silver and a bronze, and Declan Nolan

Declan Nolan earned a bronze medal in the 10 & under boys age group

(10) came away with a bronze medal of his own. The Middlesex Swimming crew has a busy March schedule, with the Ontario Spring Provincial Championships March 1-4 in Etobicoke, and the Ontario AA Spring Championships March 8-11 in Markham. On the Water Polo side, the Club will compete in the March Madness Tournament in Etobicoke from March 23-25. Interested in joining Middlesex Swimming or learning more about the program? Email info@middlesexswimming.ca or visit www.middlesexswimming.ca.

www.middlesexswimming.ca

Ethan Jantzi, who won the boys 15-year-old 50m and 200m Breaststroke

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Lacrosse is a part of Canadian culture and tradition, and is Canada’s National Summer Sport Did you know? On May 12, 1994, the following Bill C-212 received Royal Assent and became law: “To recognize Hockey as Canada’s National Winter Sport and Lacrosse as Canada’s National Summer Sport.” —Canadian Lacrosse Association, our-sport/history Lacrosse is an action-packed, fast-paced sport played with ten players per men’s team or twelve on a women’s team. The players use lacrosse sticks to throw a ball to each other, moving up the field to score on a goal on the opposing goalie. Lacrosse is a unique for its combination of speed, skill, agility, grace, teamwork, finesse, and historical significance. Basketball inventor James Naismith called it, “the best of all possible field games.”

They call it the fastest sport on two feet! You may start out at with your local club from there the possibilities are endless. As lacrosse’s popularity increases so do the opportunities. The opportunities don’t just start as you leave for post-secondary education, you have a chance to start as early as 3 or 4 years of age.

Opportunities are endless with Lacrosse! Canadian Amateur Lacrosse Association Opportunites for players National Lacrosse League (NLL) Arena Lacrosse League (ALL) Junior A, B, C Junior NLL

Provincial Teams – Field & Box National Teams - Field & Box College & University Teams & Scholarships Major Lacrosse Series Field Lacrosse (Rep Teams) Senior A & B

www.londonlacrosse.com

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GREATEST ROCK 70'S, 80'S & 90'S F R E E 9 8 1 . C O M

Manal Birani Forest City Volleyball Club Manal Birani, a grade 12 student at Saunders Secondary School, has been a member of the Forest City Volleyball Club for five years, first joining as a grade 8 student. She is a natural athlete, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the work ethic and the effort that Manal puts forth in practices and games that is admired most by her teammates and coaches. At Saunders, Manal has always been one of the most reliable players on her high schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s volleyball team, as well as its basketball and badminton squads. Manal is also very active as a coach within the Forest City Volleyball Club, as she is always busy helping younger players develop their skills. Specifically, she has coached both boys and girls in the Acorn development program at every session for more than three years. Not only does she share her volleyball knowledge, but she passes on to the kids her passion for the game. Manal will be moving on to Western University after she graduates this spring. But she will continue to coach for FCVC and give back to the program that has meant so much to her over the years. Thank you for your contribution to athletics in your community, Manal!

LONDON'S EPIC STREET HOCKEY TOURNEY IS BACK!

May 26 & 27, 2018 Victoria Park, London, Ontario Carrying on London's tradition of hosting a world class street hockey tournament, local organizers have launched a new event! Visit www.gotgamesports.ca for more information Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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Milestones and new beginnings Submitted by Family Karate The Family Karate Competition Team tryouts, held in late January and early February, saw a tremendous turnout. The team has grown to over 40 members, almost doubling in size from the year

before! Last year’s members set the tone and led by example for the newcomers, and they will look to maintain these leadership roles this year. The coaches are excited about the energy and enthusiasm the new students will bring. As always, the team will compete at tournaments to test their skills, but members and families of FKCT are also known for their generosity. They will look to give back to the community through charitable work and donations once again to practice the Family It’s the 20th year of Family Karate in 2018, and current team members are competing and giving Karate motto of ‘Life back to the community while following the club’s motto: ‘Life Skills Through Karate’

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Skills Through Karate.’ In the coming weeks, team members will be asked to set ‘SMART’ goals for themselves this year. ‘SMART’ stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely/Time Specific. The coaches believe that if the goals you set meet each of the criteria in the SMART acronym, then you stand a much greater chance of reaching them. An important anniversary will be marked in 2018 when Family Karate will see students compete and strive for success for the 20th year. Much of this success is due to the dedication of the coaches, but it must also be mentioned that this type of longevity doesn’t happen with the support of parents and family members, and certainly, not least of all, the hard work and commitment of our students. Congratulations, Family Karate and FKCT!

www.familykarate.ca

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Summer day camp! Submitted by Olympic Karate We respect the cold winter and the changing of seasons; it reminds us that life needs balance, and that nothing is permanent. But as stoic and philosophical as we might seem, we must admit: summer is our favourite season! The warm air, the long days, the fun outside, and summer day camp! Here at Olympic Karate, we have an awesome summer day camp that runs for 4 weeks over the summer. The camp is run by our head instructor, Master Stephen Donovan, who is supported by a team of Junior instructors, meaning that campers are safe and supervised for all activities. Campers spend their days learning karate, and each week will focus on a special martial arts weapon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for example, a samurai sword (wakizashi). Our location is surrounded by parks and public sports fields, meaning that campers will get to play outside and enjoy the sunshine. Each afternoon camp finishes with a swim at the Oakridge Pool, which is fully staffed with lifeguards on duty (a swim test is required to use the deep end). The name of our game is safety, fun, exercise, and enjoying learning karate. Our camp is open to ANYONE. You do not need to be a student to register with us. Dates are: July 16-20, July 23-27, August 20-24, and August 27-31. Camp runs from 9:00am to 4:00pm. Please call us for registration and more info!

Sensei Alex working on a stick kata

www.olympickarate.on.ca

Olympic Karateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head instructor, Master Stephen Donovan, oversees the summer day camps, which offer karate instruction, exercise, and fun!

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Alums making their mark Submitted by the London Volleyball Club To date, the London Volleyball Club (LVC) has graduated 54 athletes that have gone on to play university or college volleyball. At the time of this writing, three more have signed – and many more will come in the weeks ahead. LVC Alumni are hard at work in U-Sport (Canadian University volleyball league) and the CCAA (Canadian College volleyball league). And it’s time for the annual Alumni Playoff PUSH! Here is a snapshot of which LVC Alumni are poised to make a run at post-secondary gold with their respective teams.

WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL (records and standings noted were as of mid-February) Western Mustangs, London, ON (12-4) Brittney Sestric, Maya Kelly Fanshawe Falcons, London, ON (14-3) Teodora Ristic, Ripley Woodhouse Humber Hawks, Toronto, ON (17-0, #3 rank in CCAA) Brynne Coleman, Kerissa Woolley Ryerson University, Toronto, ON (15-0, #6 rank in U-Sport) Lindsay Kleuskens McMaster University, Hamilton, ON (15-2, #7 rank in U-Sport) Maddie Lethbridge University of Toronto, Toronto, ON (12-4, #16 rank in U-Sport) Lexie Cronk

University of Guelph, Guelph, ON (7-10) Miia Bricker, Jessica Chung, McKenna Deering

MEN’S VOLLEYBALL (records and standings noted were as of mid-February) Western Mustangs, London, ON (11-3, #15 rank in U-Sport) Evan Hammond, Nathan Phelps Fanshawe Falcons, London, ON (17-0, #2 rank in CCAA) Sebastian Lethbridge, Mike Liscumb, Sam Otten, Will Otten, Cole Jordan, lec Bugler, Joe Clelland, Najeem Javeed LVC Coaches, Patrick Johnston and Jeff Millar SAIT, Calgary, AB (20-4, #3 rank in CCAA) LVC Alumni Coach, Sean McKay

www.lvcfire.com

Make it 35 in a row! Submitted by Western Mustangs and photos by Ian MacAlpine The streak continued for the Western Mustangs, as the men’s squash team captured their 35th consecutive OUA Championship in February at the Queen’s Athletics and Recreation Centre. Western ran the table on the men's side, winning all five of their games while going an impressive 45-0 in their matches to extend a championship streak that, remarkably, began during the 1983-84 season. The Waterloo Warriors finished at 5-1 to claim silver, just ahead of the Queen’s Gaels, the bronze medalist hosts who defeated Toronto to seal a

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McMaster Marauders, Hamilton, ON (14-1, #8 rank in U-Sport) David Doty, Andrew Richards Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC (11-11, #9 rank in U-Sport) Charlie Bringloe Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS (7-8, #13 rank in U-Sport) Matthew Donovan University of Windsor, Windsor, ON (10-5) Pierce Johnson University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON (7-7) Matt Mawdsley, Jon Loos, Aidan Simone LVC Pathway Coordinator, Chris Lawson St. Clair College, Windsor, ON (10-8) Robert Carter, Joey Laporte, Zack Draper Niagara College, Welland, ON (9-8) Robbie Zalewski, Aiden Atkinson Follow us on Facebook/Twitter/ Instagram, or check us out at www. LVCFire.com and #lovethegame with us!

2017-2018 OUA SQUASH RESULTS Men's Standings (record) 1) Western (54-0) 2) Waterloo (39-15) 3) Queen's (33-21) 4) Toronto (23-31) 5) Brock (20-34) 6) Guelph (16-38) 7) McMaster (4-50)

Women's Coach of the Year Josh Ginou (Toronto) Men's All-Stars David Mill (Western) Matt Henderson (Western) Thomas Manley (Waterloo) Mohamed Hamour (Brock) Ravi Seth (Waterloo) Cameron Butler (Queen's)

medal position. Women's Standings (record) Meanwhile, the Mustangs 1) Queen's (41-4) Women's All-Stars took bronze on the women’s 2) Toronto (37-8) Heather McLachlan (Brock) 3) Western (21-24) Olivia Waite (McMaster) side, claiming third place with 4) Brock (18-26) Charlotte Copas (Waterloo) 5) McMaster (11-33) 21 match wins, while the Toronto Evelyn Moorhouse (Toronto) 6) Waterloo (6-39) Nora Abdelrahman Ibrahim (Queen's) Varsity Blues earned silver with Men's Rookie of the Year Amy Commisso (Western 37 victories, and the Gaels took Alex Collins (Queen's) Men's MVP Women's Rookie of the Year David Mill (Western) the top spot with 41 wins. The Heather McLachlan (Brock) Women's MVP Men's Coach of the Year Gaels won all five of their games Heather McLachlan (Brock) Vinit Kudva (Waterloo) while earning a 41-4 record in matches, which was four better and David Mill, who were named OUA than second-place Toronto. All-Stars for their efforts. Mill also took Leading Western to their 45th overall home the OUA MVP award, men’s banner were Matt Henderson finishing 6-0 with an 18-5 record. The Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED!

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Something for everyone! Submitted by CrossCourt Volleyball At CrossCourt Volleyball, there’s an option for everyone to play the game of volleyball, regardless of age, skill level, or ability. Check it out!

• Thursdays: Coed AB • Sundays: Coed B and Coed REC We will also be running a summer league like last season!

from 9am to 4pm. Cost is $185 (add $25 for before 8:30am and after 5pm. Dates include: July 9-13; July 16-20; and August 20-24.

Adult Spring Leagues

Volleyball Camps for Youth

Volleyball Bootcamp

Registration is now open for the best spring indoor volleyball league in London! Come play with us for 12 weeks (plus playoffs) at Supreme Courts’ licensed facility. We have leagues for all levels through the week, which begin April 8, 2018. Register with your friends or co-workers before the leagues fill up! • Mondays: Ladies A and Men’s B • Tuesdays: Men’s A • Wednesdays: Ladies B and coed Reverse

Our camps continue to develop players who then succeed with their respective clubs and schools. Our methodology is simple: Follow the LTAD format with all players, and ensure that the campers work on all of their volleyball skills through meaningful drills and games. Our coaches are all certified Volleyball Canada coaches with many years playing and coaching youth of all age categories and skill levels. Summer camps run Monday to Friday

London’s first and only Volleyball Bootcamp (to be held Sept. 4-6 from 6:00-8:00pm) gives players from all clubs and schools a chance to get back in shape for their tryouts and player assessments. The players will focus on getting their timing back through dedicated age and skill appropriate drills and games. For more information and to register, go to crosscourtvb.com.

CrossCourt Volleyball’s summer camps help players develop their games and prepare them to succeed with their respective clubs and schools

top rookie for men's squash went to Alex Collins, a member of the host Gaels who

www.crosscourtvb.com

There’s something for everyone at CrossCourt Volleyball, which offers youth and adult leagues, camps, and now a volleyball bootcamp!

helped his team reach the podium for OUA bronze.

Individually on the women's side, Heather McLachlin finished undefeated for the Brock Badgers at 5-0, earning her not only the OUA women's rookie of the year but the MVP title as well. The impressive first-year went 15-4 in her games from the number one position. Western’s Amy Commisso was recognized for her efforts at the championship, earning a spot on the OUA All-Star team. The coaches of the year went to Vinit Kudva of Waterloo on the men's side, his fifth straight coach of the year recognition, while Josh Ginou was named the top women's coach leading the Varsity Blues to an OUA silver.

The Mustangs had another successful trip to the OUA Squash Championship, with the women’s team capturing bronze, while the men’s team won their 35th consecutive title.

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Hardware on the hardcourt Submitted by Forest City Volleyball Club FCVC came out strong this season, delivering focused training, FC culture, and dedicated coaching for 22 outstanding competitive teams. The results in both individual and team development have been impressive, and we look forward to continued success as the teams wrap up their seasons at Provincials in April, and Nationals in May. Good luck to all our FC teams and coaches! The Mini Acorn program, for ages

The Mini Acorn program at FCVC is a fun and engaging way to learn the game of volleyball!

4 to 8, run by Head Coaches Stu Pow and Melissa Sewell, has been a terrific success again this year! This program is perfect for families who wish to give their little ones an opportunity to learn foundational volleyball skills and enhance their athletic movement. These coaches are so fun and engaging, it’s no wonder the sessions sell out so fast! The ever-popular Acorn Volleyball, for ages 9 to 13, continues to be a successful way for young athletes to learn how to play volleyball the FCVC way! This year, so much talent surfaced in the Acorn program that a tournament team was formed, called ‘Acorn Select.’ Congratulations to these athletes on their hard work and readiness for the FC competitive stream next season! The winter sessions of Mini Acorn and Acorn are both sold out, however registration is now open for Spring Acorn in May. Join us today!

15U Green win Gold at Provincial Cup

16U Green win Silver at McGregor Cup – Premier Division

FCVC 16U Blue win Silver at McGregor Cup – Championship Division

18U Green win Bronze at McGregor Cup – Premier Division

FCVC 15U Green win Silver at 16U McGregor Cup

15U Blue win Gold at Provincial Cup

FCVC 14U Green win Silver at Provincial Cup

FCVC 13U Green win Silver at Provincial Cup this season

FCVC 12U Green win Bronze at Provincial Cup

13U Blue won Gold at the Challenge Cup this winter

FCVC 16U Green win Gold at Challenge Cup – Select Division

14U Green win Gold at McGregor Cup – Championship Division

FCVC 13U Green win Silver at McGregor Cup – Championship Division

forestcityvolleyball.com | facebook: FCVCLondon | twitter: @go_fcvc | instagram: forestcityvolleyball

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Enjoy the camp experience! Submitted by London Sharks Volleyball

Youth Volleyball Camps London Sharks Volleyball Camps offer a unique concept in London, using the very best facilities and skilled coaches to take a holistic approach to developing volleyball skills. Not only will all our camp attendees receive quality coaching in all aspects of their game, at both a technical and tactical level, there will also be break-out sessions to challenge and inspire. Our camps are perfect to help our campers work on their volleyball skills while also having fun. Our Camps are a great mixture of skill development (serving, attacking, passing) and lots of play action to develop court awareness and excitement for the game. Campers will engage in matches of 2-on-2, 3-on-3 or 4-on-4 to increase the amount of volleyball contacts each player has during the camp. All of our camps are held at Supreme Courts Volleyball Centre. Our coaching staff consist of Volleyball Canada certified coaches who train our competitive teams and our development pro-

grams. We follow the Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) framework.

the game. Campers are divided by skill level to maximize their learning during the camp and to train based on the LTAD framework

March Break Camp: • March 12-16, 2018 • 9:00 am – 4:00 pm • $185 per camper. Add $25 for before/after care (8:30 am to 5:00 pm) • This camp will help players continue working on their volleyball fundamental skills and continue to stay fit

GRASSROOTS Programs Our GRASSROOTS programs are based on a volleyball course that will lead kids towards any competitive environment, such as their school team, the different volleyball clubs in the area, or even establishing the foundations for a great sports career. To register, visit www.londonsharks. ca, email info@londonsharks.ca, or call 519-636-2295.

Summer Volleyball Camps: • July 2-6 and August 13-17, 2018 • 9:00 am – 4:00 pm • $185 per camper. Add $25 for before/ after care (8:30 am to 5:00 pm) • These camps are perfect to work on improving a player’s skills and to learn

www.londonsharks.ca

REGISTER NOW! Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays (10 weeks) Times: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm Cost: $140 All athletes will get a program T-shirt SESSION III starts April 3

REGISTER NOW! Dates: Wednesdays and Fridays (10 weeks) Times: 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm Cost: $135 All Athletes will get a program T-shirt SESSION III starts April 3

Volleyball opportunities abound at London Sharks Volleyball camps, which offer fantastic coaching in all aspects of the game, and also a lot of fun!

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Coach earns unforgettable honour Proudly sponsored by

By SportsXpress Team Richard Mommersteeg has spent his professional career educating high schoolers at St. Joseph’s Secondary School in St. Thomas, teaching math and physical education. But he has also spent three decades coaching and mentoring athletes in the gym, on the ice, on the soccer fields, and on the golf course. For his years of hard work and guidance in this capacity, Mommersteeg was presented with the Spirit of Sports, Secondary Schools Coach of the Year Award in November at the London Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies. And in December, it was announced during an alumni night that the basketball court at St. Joe’s would be renamed Mommersteeg Court. It was a humbling honour for the long-time coach, who spent countless hours in the gym over 31 years, including coaching the basketball throughout that time. “It was very special that night because

there was about 70 different alumni players that evening,” Mommersteeg told the St. Thomas Times-Journal of the dedication. “I’ve done a lot with students over the years at this school with basketball. Having the opportunity to have it identified as my court, the name of the court, is really, really nice.” “Richard’s spent most of his school life here on the court. A lot of after hours,” said St Joe’s principal Jackie Campigotto. “We thought this was a really fitting tribute to him.” Mommersteeg, who is retiring at the end of this school year, has served as the Athletic Director and Physical Education Department Head at St. Joseph’s for the past 20 years. He has coached basketball, soccer, volleyball, hockey and golf, and his teams have competed in 18 different OFSAA championships over the years, winning three gold, three silver and four bronze medals in boys’ basketball and girls’ soccer.

“The opportunity to have it

identified as my court, the name of the court, is

really, really nice.”

Richard Mommersteeg, who is retiring at the end of the school year, has been honoured for his decades of leadership and guidance as a coach at St. Joseph’s High School in St. Thomas

Boyd battles back from injury Submitted by the London Lightning London Lightning forward Julian Boyd tore the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee for the fourth time midway through the Lightning’s best season in team history last year. Boyd underwent surgery and began the rehab process once again. After a great deal of hard work and dedication, he returned on January 28, 2018 to play his first game in 10 months. We sat down with Boyd to discuss his journey … London Lightning: How did you deal with/face this situation? Julian Boyd: The biggest thing was

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staying positive. You may think ‘why did this happen to me?’... but instead, I think of it as it happened for some type of reason, and I’m going to come back and play again. Maybe I’ll get mentally stronger, and off the court it will help me grow. I handle things way differently now. My outlook on everything is better. There is a positive side to everything. LL: How did this surgery and rehab process differ from your previous ones? JB: One of the main things was I had never done some of the exercises or had access to some of the machines they had

me using. And I did a lot more basketball hands-on things in this rehab. The difference with this surgery was they got an extra ligament to put on the outside of my knee to help relieve pressure on the ACL. That makes it stronger and less susceptible to injury. LL: What advice would you give (young) athletes who face a serious injury or any kind of setback? Work hard to get back. When you get hurt, you can’t just sit down and think ‘okay, I’ll heal and get back.’ You have to do your part too. You’ll have people that

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7 London Municipal Golf System The City of Fanshawe consists of five great4 golf courses at three SUNNINGDALE RD 22 facilities. Thames Valley, Fanshawe and River FANSHAWE PARK RD Road GolfValley Course. All sites offer a fully stocked Thames pro shop, food and beverage services as well as OXFORD ST KOMOKAmember and private tournaments. DUNDAS ST ILTO N R guest fees as MMIS Golfers have the COoption D SIONER to pay River Road S RD 2 they play or purchase a regular or unlimited 2/4 golf membership. There are no initiation fees, DORCHESTER DELAWARE shares402or monthly assessments 401 with the ST. THOMAS City of401London Municipal Golf Course System. All fees are considered reasonable and in keeping with a public course operation.

Course Questions? Fanshawe We are atGolf your service. Please stop 2835 Sunningdale Rd. E. by one of our pro shops or call 519-661-4450. London, Ontario N5X 3Y7 519-661-4450 (Press 2)

3.5”

Unlimited Memberships:

Regular Memberships:

Designed to give great value to the avid golfer expecting the best experiences at all City of London golf courses. This membership gives you access with no restrictions to all of our golf courses for a one-time fee.

Designed for the golfer who plays a minimum of 15 rounds per year and is looking for affordable, reduced green fees. Golfers will pay the initial regular membership fee and then a reduced green fee all season long – 7 days a week at all locations. Please see the regular member green fee charts below.

3.5625

Unlimited Membership Unlimited golf at all sites – 7 days a week. Youth (9-18) Intermediate (19-24) Adult (25+) Senior (65+)

City of London Municipal

$475 $925 $1,475 $1,325

2018 Golf

Unlimited Value (25+) $1,075 Unlimited play at any golf course Monday to Friday. Unlimited play at River Road, the Quarry and the Hickory 9 on weekends at no charge. HMay play the Traditional and the Classic on weekends for a regular member green fee.H

Memberships, Green Fees and Cart Packages

Unlimited Hickory (19+) $625 Unlimited golf on the Hickory Course - 7 days a week Unlimited Youth Hickory (7-18) $250 Unlimited golf on the Hickory Course only – 7 days a week. Juniors under 9 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. All membership age categories will be defined by August 31, 2018.

2018 Payment Plans

All memberships must be paid in full by July 1st.

Thames Valley Golf Course 850 Sunninghill Ave. London, Ontario N6H 3L9 519-661-4450 (Press 3)

For Tee Times 519-661-4450 london.ca/golf

Find us on Facebook: Search ‘City of London Municipal Golf Courses’ Follow us on Twitter: Search ‘CityGolfCourses’ or http:twitter/CityGolfCourses

Unlimited Adult (25+) Unlimited Senior (65+) Unlimited Value (25+) Unlimited Intermediate (19-24) Unlimited Youth (9-18)

Thames Valley Hickory (19+) $160 7 days a week - pay a reduced green fee on the Hickory 9. Junior Thames Valley Hickory (7-18) $50 7 days a week – pay a reduced green fee on the Hickory 9. Juniors under 9 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Thames Valley Classic & Fanshawe Traditional PRIME TIME: NON-PRIME TIME: TWILIGHT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$23.00 $18.50 $13.00 $10.00

$1,525 $1,375 $1,125 $975 $525

Guest Green Fees Thames Valley Classic & Fanshawe Traditional PRIME TIME: PRIME TIME GOLF & CART PACKAGE: NON-PRIME TIME: TWILIGHT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$46.00 $55.00 $37.00 $26.00 $20.00

Fanshawe Quarry & River Road

PRIME TIME: FANSHAWE QUARRY PRIME TIME GOLF & CART PACKAGE: NON-PRIME TIME: TWILIGHT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$18.00 $31.00 $16.00 $13.00 $10.00

PRIME TIME: FANSHAWE QUARRY PRIME TIME GOLF & CART PACKAGE: NON-PRIME TIME: TWILIGHT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$36.00 $47.00 $32.00 $26.00 $20.00

Thames Valley Hickory 9

Thames Valley Hickory 9 ADULT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$10.00 $8.00

ADULT: JUNIOR (9-18):

$20.00 $16.00

All memberships are subject to HST. Please check the website and pro shops for more information on non-prime time and twilight rates. (Green fee pricing includes HST.)

Fanshawe Golf Course 2835 Sunningdale Rd. E. London, Ontario N5X 3Y7 519-661-4450 (Press 2)

Receive our online newsletter: Visit london.ca/golf and sign up today!

River Road Golf Course 2115 River Rd. London, Ontario N5W 6C4 519-661-4450 (Press 1)

Thames Valley Golf Course 850 Sunninghill Ave. London, Ontario N6H 3L9 519-661-4450 (Press 3)

For Tee Times 519-661-4450 • london.ca/golf

can help you along the way, but it’s up to you to actually execute that [rehab] and put your full 100% force and effort into doing it.

Photo by Joanna Kuroski, London Camera Club

Regular Membership Youth (9-18) $160 Intermediate (19-24) $250 Adult (25+) $295 Senior (65+) $260 Any golf course – 7 days a week pay a reduced green fee.

Fanshawe Quarry & River Road

Monthly payment plans will be available for select Unlimited Golf Memberships and payments can start as early as March. Payments may be made by credit card or direct debit from your bank account. Cheques cannot be used for payment plans.

River Road Golf Course 2115 River Rd. London, Ontario N5W 6C4 519-661-4450 (Press 1)

3.375”

Photo by Don Rycroft, London Camera club

Julian Boyd, who returned to the court in late January after 10 months rehabbing a torn ACL injury, has provided a boost for the London Lightning as they gear up for the playoffs

LL: What type of activities and focus did your treatment have? JB: The biggest goal was to get full strength back in the quads and hamstrings – those are the main two important muscles that help and control your knee. Also, your glutes – squats, single leg squats, a lot of hip exercises, and we focused on cardio when I was able to. You have to focus on getting back in shape during the process of getting strong too. LL: How were you able to stay strong, positive and focused throughout the rehab process? JB: My teammates and friends … Having good people around you can help you uplift yourself … You have a choice in life to think, ‘I’m done,’ or you have the option to say, ‘I can do this. It’s going to be a process, but I’ll be able to play again.’

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Thinking about being able to play again was one of the biggest things that helped me stay strong and positive. LL: What draws you to basketball? What do you love about it so much? JB: I love the chemistry you get to build with your teammates … the competitiveness of the game … the feeling of being able to be free, running up and down the court … I’ve been doing it for so long, I guess I just developed a true passion and love for the game. See Boyd and the rest of the London Lightning battle in the playoffs to defend their 2017 NBL-C Championship. Visit www.lightningbasketball.ca for more details on playoff dates and information. #GetStruck

www.lightningbasketball.ca

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The best youth golf experience By Tyler Schepens Another season of the London Junior Golf League is about to begin. This junior league provides an experience that involves ‘game-like’ situations in practice along with on-course play. The first introduction to the game of golf for most kids involves either a golf clinic at a range or going to the driving range. And although whacking balls as hard as you can into

The smiles on the faces of Julia (left) and Megan is key to our program!

a big field can be pretty cool, this first experience with the game has very little to do with the game itself. Our junior league allows children to experience the ups and downs of the game of golf in the company of other children (typically friends) and under the supervision of an experienced coach. What are the key points about our Junior League? • “Little League” design – provides teams of boys and girls, ages 13 and under, with a structured learning environment for young golfers to compete and have fun. • Team Format for all skills - Each team in the league will play games against other teams in a two-person team scramble format. As long the player can putt and chip, they can contribute to the team! • Coaching from PGA Professionals & Parents - Most recreational sport programs are coached by parents who have

SOUTHWEST ACADEMY CAMPS

a passion for the sport and enjoy helping young people learn games. The PGA Jr. League is no different - parents coach the team with support from LJGDC staff who coach and instruct the practices. • Spring, Summer and Fall seasons – variety in seasons allows participation by all!

How do I register my child or find out more information? The London Junior Golf Development Centre welcomes you and your family, regardless of experience or equipment, to start golfing this season. For more information or to register, visit us online at www.londonjuniorgolf.com.

www.londonjuniorgolf.com

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MARCH BREAK BASKETBALL CAMP MARCH 12 - 16

9:00AM – 2:00PM $250 PER CAMPER

TO REGISTER CONTACT COACHBARNES@SWFACADEMY.COM

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Carr earns special honour Submitted by the Christie Rose Memorial Award This winter, Ally Carr, a standout volleyball player, was named as the newest recipient of the Christie Rose Memorial Award for female athletes, an honour bestowed by the Rose family to a female student who is “a good athlete, strong in academics and has a desire to make the world a better place.” That is an apt description of the award’s namesake, who attended Parkside Collegiate Institute. Christie Rose passed away, tragically, nearly a decade ago, on June 8, 2008, as a result of injuries suffered in a car accident. In memory of Christie, who was an avid hockey player and a member of the Provincial Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), the award is presented by her family to a young woman who shares Christie’s qualities and characteristics. The award carries with it a scholarship, and more than $35,000 has been provided to 10 female athletes over the last decade.

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Carr, this year’s recipient, was a force on the volleyball court at Parkside, where she also competed in cross-country running, lacrosse, field hockey, badminton and track and field. She now attends the University of New Orleans, where she plays beach volleyball for the Privateers and studies biological sciences/ pre-veterinary. For her part, Carr was thrilled to be recognized with the special award. “It was a tremendous honour that I was even considered for this award, and it’s extremely special as I feel connected to Christie’s legacy and story as a Parkside student,” Carr said. “I am truly honoured and inspired by Christie’s legacy and this award, and I’m also very grateful for the support.”

Ally Carr, shown here alongside Dan Rose, is this year’s recipient of the Christie Rose Memorial Award for female athletes

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Rec sessions a big hit! By Beth White and photos by Forest City Gymnastics Forest City Gymnastics (FCGC London Inc.) is a 22,000 square foot facility that offers men’s and women’s gymnastics. We offer a wide range of programs, starting from age 18 months up through adult for both boys and girls. Regardless of age or ability, there is a class for you at FCGC! We run four recreational sessions per year, with classes running evenings as well as on Saturdays and Sundays. All classes are structured to promote physical activities

that develop gross motor skills, coordination, balance, strength, power, flexibility and creativity. Even adult classes have become a sold-out commodity! FCGC also offers group visits for sports teams who want to come in for dry land training, cross-training, conditioning, and team-building in a new environment. This can help develop new skills used at the core of their sport, including strength, agility, balance, and more. It can be tailored to your sport and the specific needs

of your team. We also offer group visits for schools, businesses, daycares and church groups who want to come in and learn some gymnastics while having fun! If you are interested in any of our programs, visit our website for more info: www.forestcitygym.com. Or give our office a call at 519-452-3242 and we’ll be happy to help you!

www.forestcitygym.com

All classes at Forest City Gymnastics promote activities that develop motor skills, coordination, balance, strength, power, flexibility and creativity!

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Gymnastics – and so much more! Submitted by The Little Gym of London tics is taught by coaches that progress children through various pre-determined levels according to their mastery of certain physical skills. At The Little Gym, in addition to teaching physical skills, our instructors are trained in specialized curriculum that incorporates two other important learning dimensions: cognitive learning (mathematics, reading, decision making) and social development (sharing, taking turns, separating from a parent). This is done in a nurturing environment where children are free to learn without being judged. Music is also a big part of our program, as it is a proven tool for enhancing a child’s learning. Gymnastics is not the end goal; rather we USE gymnastics as a tool to reach more holistic learning goals for children in all three skill dimensions (physical, cognitive, social). So, parents see how serious we are about teaching,

and children just see the fun. We call it ‘Serious Fun.’ Participation in gymnastics (properly taught) in any manner and at any level is always going to be beneficial. However, 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! We teach children from 4 months old to 12 years old. Our season runs from September 9 through June 29, and the curriculum is set up so that you can join at any time on a pro-rated price basis. We also offer a summer term through July and August, half and full-day Camps, and a School-Readiness Program for 3 to 4-year-olds. Visit www.tlglondoncan.com or call 519-642-0660.

www.tlglondoncan.com 4 Fanshawe Park Rd.

d. rn R Wes te

Wharn

Oxford St.

cliffe

Rd.

Sarnia Rd.

Wonderland Rd.

Hyde Park Rd.

Gainsborough Rd.

The Little Gym of London uses gymnastics as a tool to help children develop physically, cognitively, and socially. And it’s a lot of fun!

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Richmond St.

The Little Gym often gets compared to traditional gymnastics programs, because when looking into the facility in Sherwood Forest Mall, gymnastics equipment can be seen. However, traditional gymnastics is not what is going on. Over 90% of our students are under the age of 6, and our goals for children in this age group are more child development-based than gymnastics-based. Make no mistake – teaching gymnastics as a sport is fantastic for physical literacy; in fact, it is one of the best sports for children to be taught because it develops physical skills that can be used in any future sport or movement activity. Further, instruction can be individualized, so that children can be taught and challenged at their own skill level. However, at The Little Gym, what sets us apart is not the sport we teach, but HOW we teach it. Traditional gymnas-

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Multi-talented athlete-coaches Submitted by Power Cheer Gym At PCG, athletes are highly encouraged to be involved in other sports and school clubs/teams. Our senior level athletes are also encouraged to be involved in coaching via the C.I.T. and coach-volunteer programs at the gym. We asked three senior Viper student athletecoaches – Hali, Lauren and Rebecca – about what motivates them and how they handle being multi-sport athletes. Q: “How do you balance being on a school team, a cheer team and coaching?” Hali: It all comes down to time management. Surprisingly, the busier I am the more efficient I become with my time. Thankfully, my teams and coaches all understand that I cannot be in two places at once and they allow me the freedom to prioritize my responsibilities. Lauren: It is challenging at times to be on a school team, cheer team and be a coach as well, but it’s a challenge I’m up for! Rebecca is a dominant multi-sport

Rebecca: At first, it is a challenge to balance all of the activities, but it teaches you to be organized and efficient with your time. It is also a great opportunity to meet new people and get out of your comfort zone. Q: “What is the best part of coaching the younger athletes in the gym?” Hali: The younger athletes inspire me to be a better athlete myself, knowing that they look up to me. The ultimate reward in coaching is the smile on the face of a child who just realized that they could do it! Lauren: The best part is seeing them be inspired by you and having them look up at you as a senior in the gym. They are always trying to improve their skills, and seeing them fall in love with the sport like I did makes me so happy. Rebecca: The best part is watching them fall in love with the sport that I love. Q: “Why do you do it?” Hali: I was once the little girl who looked up to the older kids in the gym, now I am the one who is looked up to. Coaching young athletes is an honour that I will always hold close to my heart. Lauren: With coaching minis (ages 6-7), you see a big change in them from the beginning of the season through to April. They mature and become much more independent. They are the sweetest bunch of kids, and I love each and every one of them.

Rebecca: I love it. I enjoy seeing how passionate the kids become for the sport at such a young age. Someone once told me that I’m making a kid’s day by coaching, but in reality, they’re making mine.

www.powercheergym.com pcgvipers

Hali, Lauren (flyers) and Rebecca (lower right) – Senior Level 4 Power Cheerleaders

athlete and an excellent student

Hali - Medway HS Track & Field Team

Lauren – Rugby team at Clarke Road

Rebecca - OFSSA qualifier in Track and Cross Country for Banting SS

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@PCGVipers

Coach Rebecca with a Mini Team athlete

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Summer camp cheer! Submitted by CheerStrike It’s time to register for Summer Camps! CheerStrike is once again happy to open its doors and run fun-filled youth-aged camps all July long. We offer a family friendly environment, with camps run by experienced, responsible instructors who offer children an engaging week that will keep them excited to come back every day!

This summer, CheerStrike is offering three different types of camps. Our CHEER CAMP is designed for children aged 7 and up. Cheer camp is the perfect place for current cheer athletes who want to work on their overall cheer skills and for children who are brand new to cheer and looking to be introduced to the sport. The camp will include instruction on stunting, jumps, motions/ dance and tumbling, as well as lots of fun, games and activities. For the littler ones, we are offering KINDER At CheerStrike Summer Camps, kids will improve their cheer skills, enjoy outings around London, participate CAMP, which in game and crafts, and have a whole lot of fun!

is designed for children aged 4 to 6 years old who have completed one year of school. The programming will be similar to cheer camp, but geared toward this younger age group with more fun, games and activities. Finally, we will be offering TUMBLING CAMP, designed for children aged 7 and up who want to work specifically on tumbling skills (previous experience with cheer/gymnastics/dance is required). This group will be split into skill appropriate groups and will work through drills, stations and open floor time to improve on and build their tumbling skills. At summer camp, Royals work hard and play hard. We include fun themed days throughout the week, exciting outings around London, games and crafts, and so much more. Register today at www.cheerstrikeroyals.com!

www.cheerstrikeroyals.com

Progress is intense. Introducing the all-new Audi A4.

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

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A home away from home By Richelle Hirlehey It can be bittersweet for coaches to expression, historical/character dance, ing at the National Ballet School that he say goodbye to their athletes or dancnutrition and anatomy classes focusing loves the way NBS understands the way ers when they advance to the next on variations, repertoire, pas de deux his body works and what it needs when level – or in the case of dance, head and more. it comes to his training and also being a off to pursue pre-professional dance We asked both Hartman and Lavoie male dancer. training. In recent years, two Dance what they love most about the training Both dancers miss their friends and Extreme students chose to pursue full they are receiving. Dance Extreme family. Says Lavoie: “I’m time pre-professional dance studies at “The training here at the Royal so grateful for all the teachers who were two of Canada’s most well-known ballet Winnipeg Ballet has helped me to peralways teaching me new things and helpschools. Ewan Hartman has spent the fect the basics of ballet so I can move ing me to improve. It was hard to leave past two years studying and training at on to the next step in my ballet journey Dance Extreme because it was like a secCanada’s National Ballet School, while here,” says Lavoie. “At the school, they ond home and a family for me, but I’m so dancer Paige Lavoie is pursuing her teach us to work hard and show that we happy for where dance has brought me studies and dance training at the Royal love ballet at the same time. The teachin my blossoming dance career.” Winnipeg Ballet School. ers here are so dedicated to working with Bottom line? Once a part of the Dance Both Hartman and Lavoie love ballet, us, they always push us to be the best Extreme Family, always a part! and they have taken their training to dancers we can be.” www.danceextreme.com the next level by living in residence at Hartman, meanwhile, says of his traintheir respective schools so that they can fill their day, not only with academic studies, but also dance. In addition to ballet classes, both dancers train in contemporary repertoire and technique, improvisation, Paige Lavoie, who is grateful for her time as part of the Dance Extreme family, is Ewan Hartman, a former Dance Extreme athlete, has been studying and training for the last drama and currently training at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School

two years at Canada’s National Ballet School

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Get ready for jazzercise What is jazzercise? If you really want to know, ask the enthusiastic folks at Jazzercise London. They’ll tell you it’s “a pulse-pounding, beat-pumping fitness program that gets you results … fast. It’s a calorie-torching, hip swiveling dance

party with top 40 music and the latest cutting-edge choreography.” Jazzercise combines cardio, resistance training, Pilates, yoga, kickboxing and dance. And with that combo, you’ll experience quick results – even after just

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ZUMBA / YOGA - 50 CLASSES

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MARCH 31, 31, 2018 *NEW STUDENTS OR RETURNING AFTER 6 MONTHS. EXPIRES DECEMBER 2017

three classes. OR PLEASE REPLY TO EMAIL WITH YOUR APPROVAL OR CHANGES Class formats include: Dance Mixx, Mark Changes & Corrections Clearly - Instructions: Circle correction and label A, B, C, etc. then print proper instructions below an Interval, Fusion, Flip Fusion, Core, Strike, and Strength. Each offers a different approach, and each targets a different set of muscles. London offers a Please ensure you have read the notice below before Jazzercise providing your approval. Verify all copy for accuracy and indicate corrections clearly. Direct Response Media Group Inc. is not responsible for errors not marked. Colours (if any) displayed on proof may not ma variety memberships and class passes advertiser agrees that DRMG Inc.’s liability shall not exceed an amount equal to of the total consideration actually paid to DRMG. Other than corrections, design or copy change may result in a to DRMG that their supplied subject matter is not copyrighted or the trademark property of a third party. To support these warranties, the customer agrees to indemnify and hold DRM options. Interested inproduced learning attorney fees that may be incurred in any legal action connected with copyright infringement involving the work or provided. Note:more? Maximum number of revisions per ad is

at $30 per revision. (Left to right)Front row: Instructor Leslie Wilkinson, Esra Ari, Jane Edwards, Claire Martin, Sue Reaune ,Deanna Soepboer and Diana Masters. Back row: Lisa Dixon, Maureen Kononiuk, Kailey Fisher, Sabrina Langill, Maggie Nicholson, Laura Kastelein, MONEY SAVER DEALS NOW ONLINE! Please note, by approving a Money Saver ad, you also agree to have yo Beth Huff, Bobbie Brooke, Lori Giannante, Ali Mohammed, Liette Rudy, Sherry Dalglish, Sherry Bawden and Bev Vander Heide. deal posted online at clipdeals.com and will accept mobile and printed coupons. This is a FREE basic listing servic

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Coaches earn honours Submitted by London Minor Football Association London Minor Football Association (LMFA) is happy to recognize our 2017 coaching award winners. These volunteer coaches give up their time in order to make our league successful, and we could not run the league without them. Our Tyke Coach of the Year is Scott Noszenko from the Red Storm. In his second year, his team stayed together and grew both on and off the field. The Atom Coach of the Year is Josh Faulkner from the Hawks, who has been leading this group of players since they played Tyke and has helped them improve every year. In the Peewee division, Nathan Barfett from the Bulldogs wins the award in his first year as head coach. His team grew as the season progressed, and the large roster of players meshed as a team. Meanwhile, the London Football Officials Association awarded the Wolverines Peewee team as the Most Sportsmanlike team of 2017. The overall LMFA 2017 Coach of the Year is Terry Leisk. Terry coached this year with the Hammers Atom team, a team he has coached for many years. Terry continues to give his time and experience to the players, lending stability and great football knowledge to his team. LMFA is a house league that provides all players aged 7 to 13, regardless of experience or ability, the chance to join a

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team, make friends, stay active, and learn teamwork skills. 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

Nathan Barfett (left), shown here attending a Green Bay Packers game, earned LMFA Coach of the Year honours in the Peewee division

Terry Leisk, the coach of the Atom Hammers, was recognized as the overall LMFA Coach of the Year for 2017 Josh Faulkner (middle), shown here with a group of all-stars, was named the LMFAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2017 Atom Coach of the Year

The Wolverines Peewee team was named the Most Sportsmanlike team for 2017

Scott Noszenko, who guides the Red Storm, was named Tyke Coach of the Year

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Panthers making huge strides Submitted by Ellis Hockey Detail When the Ellis family settled into St. Thomas, it didn’t take long for Mike to start making his mark on minor hockey in the city. After years of running development camps, getting involved with minor hockey, running a spring hockey program, and becoming a skill development coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs, one would think that his plate would be full. But that all changed when his daughter, Miley, decided she had had enough of figure skating and wanted to skate like her daddy – she wanted to play hockey. So, once Miley signed up for St. Thomas Panthers Girls Hockey, it wouldn't be long before Mike would have another team – and association – to add to the mix. Just like the St. Thomas Jr. Stars minor hockey program, who has each of the travel teams work with Mike and his staff at Ellis Hockey Development. Each team of panthers is to have 20 Dev sessions with HockeyDetail not 20 teams. “The goal is to take each player and help them grow their game,” said Ellis. “We want to master the fundamentals and help the stronger or more experienced skaters be the best they can be.” And how has it worked

out so far? “You can see the improvement across the entire organization,” said Ellis. “Girls hockey has been growing, and in St. Thomas it’s no different. Boys hockey players always had great NHL role model and heroes. But now the girls have Olympic stars to look up too also, and we have some great female hockey stars coming out of St. Thomas as well.” Mike has worked with some of the biggest female hockey players to come out of St. Thomas, including Mercyhurst University's Paige Horton, Team Canada U18 player Lexie Adzija, Robert Morris University's Britany Howard, who leads College Hockey America Conference in points, and has just been named the

Dapper Dan Sports Woman of the Year and to Team Canada Women's National Team. “Women's hockey is huge!” says Ellis. “The players are working so hard, and the game is improving at an amazing rate. It’s so great to watch. I’m really excited at what the future holds for Panthers Hockey.” For more information on St. Thomas Panthers Girls Hockey, visit their website.

“The goal is to take each player and help them grow their game... I’m really excited at what the future holds for Panthers Hockey.”

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The St. Thomas Panthers have been taking giant developmental strides thanks to the teachings and training from Ellis Hockey Detail

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Cougars eyeing strong finish Contributions by Ryan Stewart and photo by Picture Day Photography It’s all about the fundamentals for the Mount Brydges Peewee Cougars Gold team. As coach Ryan Stewart says, “the better you skate, the easier all the other skills become.” So, from a technical standpoint, the team has been trying to improve the skating ability of its players. And it’s paid off. The Peewee Cougars Gold team enjoyed a successful regular season in 2017-18, finishing with a 7-4-3 record. That was good for fourth place in the Peewee A division in the LambtonMiddlesex Local League. And it was a close, last-game win that earned them

the No. 4 spot. Despite a sluggish start against Lambeth 2, the Cougars began to control the play in the second period, and at the 6:55 mark they netted the first goal of the game, as Carson V. put Mount Brydges up 1-0 on a goal assisted by Konrad D. and Spencer W. The score remained 1-0 until a feverish ending. With 3:50 left in the game, Carson scored his second to put the Cougars up 2-0, and then Sam S., who had assisted on the second goal, scored one of his own (assists to Carson and AJ D) with 3:07 left. But that’s when Lambeth woke up. They scored a goal seven seconds later and then scored again with the goalie pulled with 35 seconds left to pull within

2017-18 Mount Brydges Peewee Cougars Gold team Back row (left to right): Coaches Jamie Bond, Mark Emerick, Ryan Stewart, Mark Duffy, Pat Watson. Middle row: Spencer W., Ethan B., Michael D., A.J. D., Nicholas S., Conrad D. Front row: Spencer E., Carson V., Logan D., Zac F., Benjamin W., Matthew H., Braedan V., Liam P., Samuel S., William S.

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one goal. But the Cougars would hold on, earning fourth place in the division in the process and qualify for the ‘A’ Finals, which set them up with a tough matchup against the tough Point Edward Blackhawks (12-1-0 in regular season) in the playoffs. At the time of this writing, the Blackhawks held a 2-0 advantage in the series. “We really have a great group of kids who are eager to learn and develop – both on and off the ice,” said Stewart, who has been coaching within the Mount Brydges Minor Hockey Association for seven years (and been involved in hockey for 38 years). “It’s been a pleasure to work with this group of kids. They’re the most pleasant, well-behaved, respectful group that I’ve had the opportunity to coach.” The Cougars, who play their home games at the Mount Brydges Arena and compete against teams all within 45 minutes on London, also managed to win a silver medal at the Henderson Pharmacy Tournament at Christmas time, losing a hard-fought championship game against Thorold. The team is focused on closing out the season with a successful playoff run, and they’re also looking for a good showing in March at the Baltimore Icedogs Winter Windup Tournament (held March 16-18).

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Happy half century! Submitted by George Bray Sports Association Could George Bray ever have imagined in 1968 when he started this organization that 50 years later we would still be going strong – and growing! Over the past 50 years, GBSA has grown from just a couple of teams to 18 teams and a weekly hockey school. Looking back through the archives, it is obvious that throughout these past 50 years, the primary focus of the George Bray Sports Association has never waivered … to provide an opportunity to young people with developmental exceptionalities the chance to play Canada’s game – hockey. The focus 50 years ago was fun, not competition, and it is the very same

today. This league is vital – not only because it provides a place to play hockey for young people who otherwise would not get to play, but also because it offers players a place to belong. No matter the level of skill, all players get equal ice time. What works for George Bray is that we adapt our program to the player; we do not adapt the player to the program. Our players have a varying range of exceptionality – we have players with learning disabilities, Down syndrome, some on the Autism spectrum, ADHD, hearing impairment, and so much more. Our players range in age from 7 years old to players in their 40’s. We have four divisions, with our youngest (or newest to the game) starting in Fundamentals in October and ‘graduating’ to join the Junior division in January. The next division, Intermediate, is typically made up of 13 to 17-year-olds, depending on Parnell Foods – 1979 team. The George Bray Sports Association is celebrating 50 years in 2018. For half a century, the league has been providing youngsters of all exceptionalities the opportunity to play the player. Most

Murray Howard, shown here in 1991, has been president of the GBSA since 1982 – and he’s still going strong!

Our founder, George Bray

Intermediate players are reasonably skilled and understand the game, but they still have timed shift changes. The Senior division is made up of our older players, a number of whom have played with GBSA since Junior. There is no body contact in GBSA in any division. Occasionally, players will bump into each other or collide, but when this happens don’t be surprised if opponents rush over to help each other. You have to be here, to see it, to believe it. It is truly heartwarming. Over the years, GBSA has played at Silverwood, Farquharson, and Glen Cairn arenas. If you have been to any of these arenas, you know how cold they can be. This is the last season for the Glen Cairn arena – it is slated to close and GBSA will be moving to Kinsmen arena. While we are sad to leave our home for the past decade or so, we are excited to move to a location with a heated viewing area. Watch our website and Facebook page for updates on our celebrations throughout 2018! We are striving to make 2018 our best year ever!

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Winning in Woodstock Contributions by Jim Taylor The 2017-18 Provincial Junior Hockey League season has been one to remember for the Woodstock Navy Vets, who have enjoyed their best season – both on the ice and at the gate – since 2002. On the ice, the Navy Vets finished third in the Doherty Division during the regular season with an impressive record of 309-0-1, just five points behind first-place Ayr. After dispensing with the Norwich Merchants, 4-1, in the quarterfinals, the Vets advanced to a semi-final matchup but lost against No. 2-ranked Tavistock Braves. At the gate, the Woodstock club posted a regular season attendance of 10,504,

making them only the third OHA Junior C team to reach the 10,000 mark. The Vets averaged 525 fans per game en route to earning a top-3 finish and advancing to the semi-finals for the first time since 2010 (it was just a 6-team division then, as opposed to today’s 9-team Doherty Division). Their opening night crowd of 1,510 was the largest since 2002. Several other milestones were achieved along the way for the Woodstock Juniors, including earning 30 wins for the first time since 1997 (and only the fourth time in team history). Their 16 home wins were the most since 1999, while their four home losses (in-

2017-18 Woodstock Navy Vets - Front Row (left to right): Noah Burns (street clothes), Dylan Wettlaufer (street clothes), Kyle Walker (Assistant Captain), Chris Nauts, Josh Wright, Warren Gorman, Mike Harrison, Austin Richardson, Keaghan Brett. Back Row: Jamie Rogg, Lucas Psenicka, Jared Prekup, Austin Sine, Troy Vandenbussche, Kurtis Christo, Connor Dick, Jack Dorey, Justin Elms, Justin Vandendool, Chris Jensen, Chris Thompson, Cam Leslie (Captain). Coaching Staff (background left to right): Devon Young (President), Kyle Handsaeme (Assistant Coach), Darren Young (Assistant Coach), Matt Paton (Head Coach), Devin Strickler (Assistant Equipment Manager)

cluding one in OT) were the fewest since 2002. Their 200 goals were the most by the franchise since 1997, and they won their first playoff series since 2009. On an individual level, the Vets had six scorers in the top 30 in the Doherty Division, including Kyle Walker who finished 8th overall with 29 goals and 36 assists for 65 points. Walker’s goal and point totals were the most in a season by any Vets player since 2002 and 1999, respectively. Meanwhile, Chris Nauts (11 goals, 27 assists, 38 points) was the top scoring defenceman in the division, and Josh Wright (4 goals, 31 assists, 35 points) was the top scoring rookie defenceman. Both goalies finished top 6 in the league, including Keaghan Brett who posted a 2.63 goals against average. His 19 wins were the most in a season by any Vets goalie since the early 1970s. Five Woodstock players won awards in 2017-18. Troy Vandenbussche was named top rookie in November, Brett was awarded top goalie in November, Dylan Wettlaufer was named top player in January, Josh Wright earned top rookie honours in January, and Kyle Walker was named to the league’s annual All-Star team. It was certainly a season to remember for the Woodstock Navy Vets!

Behind the Nats’ bench By Mikayla Finnerty The London Nationals hold four Western Conference Championship titles, Nats’ players have won six conference awards this season, and the team is hoping to contend for the Sutherland Cup for the third year in a row. But while the performance of the players has undoubtedly had a large role in the success of the organization, a large part is also due to London’s coaching staff. General Manager and Head Coach Pat Powers joined the team in 2015. Since

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coming on board, Powers has coached the Nationals to two back-to-back Western Conference Championships. A teacher at Saunders Secondary School and a former Western and St. Thomas University coach, Powers has brought a strict but effective coaching style to the team which is aimed at making each player better – on and off the ice. “I try to teach these guys that it’s not just about the game of hockey,” said Powers. “It’s about being a good player, a good community member, and a good student. We teach these guys that we

The London Nationals coaching staff in 2017-2018 includes Head Coach (and GM) Pat Powers, as well as Assistant Coaches Jeff Bradley, Rumun Ndur and Adam McKee

have a certain level of expectations that we hold them to, and it definitely sets us up for success.” Assistant coach Rumun Ndur has a similar coaching philosophy: “I’m trying to get the guys I coach to be better players and better people,” he said. Ndur joined the team in 2016. He played professional hockey for 15 years before his coaching career. Ndur was drafted by

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Minor atoms a tight group Contributions by Adam Casey Photo by Forest City Image Centre/CameraCanada Sports The London Jr. Knights Minor Atom AAA ranked Jr. Canadians in the tournament – have actually come away from the rink. team truly practices and competes as one final. “That would be in October, when the unit. In fact, it’s a mantra for the group of Casey is certainly enjoying his time players volunteered with the London 9 and 10-year-olds, who play in the Minor behind the bench guiding these youngFood Bank, and at Christmas when they Hockey Alliance. The team’s slogan, ‘17 sters. It’s his first year with this group of held a skate-a-thon to raise money for pieces to the puzzle,’ signifies the fact players, but he’s been coaching hockey the Salvation Army’s Christmas Hamper that each and every player – all 17 of for 25 years. But despite the fact the Program,” Casey said. them – brings something special to the team continues to improve on the ice, the Not only are these Atom players in it for team. And together they’re a hardworking coach says the highlights of the year – each other, but they’re in it for the comteam that experiences the highs and lows and the boys’ greatest accomplishments munity as well. All 17 of them. of a hockey season – both on and off the ice – as a unit. “Any success we’ve had this season has come from the players’ hard work and their commitment to playing together as a group of ’17,’” says Adam Casey, the team’s head coach. “They’re a hardworking, skilled team who love playing hockey together.” They’ve certainly had a lot to celebrate on the ice, as the Atoms have won a pair of tournaments this season, including the Oktoberfest tourney in Kitchener and the Richard Bell Memorial in Oakville, London Jr. Knights AAA Minor Atom team Back row (left to right): Adam Casey (Head Coach), Tyson Ackerman, Jamie Moore, Beckham Edwards, Carter Hicks, Daniel Casey, Jeremy Kurcz (Assistant Coach) Jeff Howard (Assistant where they beat the topCoach). Middle row: Luke Wachowiak, Ethan Dean, Luke McMillan, Keyden Hoang, Mason Bothwell, Logan Bell, Oran Park. Front row: Dylan Durno, Byron Etheridge, Jaxon Teale, Josh Myatt, Markus Hayward. Absent: Shaun Clinton (Assistant Coach), Doug Sauve (Assistant Coach)

the Buffalo Sabres in the third round of the 1994 NHL Entry draft. He also played for the New York Rangers and Atlanta Thrashers. Two seasons ago, Ndur was a coach in the GOJHL for St. Mary’s. Once the season was done, Powers called Ndur and asked him to come and coach for the Nationals. “I was happy to accept and come on board,” Ndur said. He has taken what he’s learned from his coaches and from his experience playing pro hockey and applied it to his coaching style for the Nationals. “I’ve had some good coaches along the way,” said Ndur. “I’ve tried to take a few things from the days I was with those guys and try to bring it here. When you play 15 years, you pick up so much of the game. “I like to preach hard work,” added

Ndur. “I don't think you can cheat the game. If you cheat the game, bad things happen to you.” Jeff Bradley, Assistant Coach of the Nationals, coached in Port Stanley and worked as an instructor for Progressive Hockey Development before joining the Nationals in 2016. Assistant Coach Adam McKee experienced the Nationals organization firsthand. McKee was with the team for three years before he joined the Western Mustangs Hockey Team in 2010 and pursued his Masters (MA) in Kinesiology. While at Western, Powers was his coach. “[Powers] knew that I was interested in coaching when I was done playing,” said McKee. “Once I graduated, he gave me a call and asked if I wanted to come on

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board. I jumped at the chance because I loved playing here and Ioved everything about the organization.” Looking forward, the coaches hope to build on the success of the season and finish with a championship. “We’ve had a lot of success against all teams,” said Bradley. “We want to defend our conference title and capitalize on what we did last year but have three more wins.” “We can put other teams on their heals,” said Powers. “That’s the type of game we want to play. We don't want to go into a game and allow a team to take control of it. At the opening puck drop, we want to take control of the game and make the other team chase us.”

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Atoms snipe way to title By Karl Robb & Rich Palser and photo by Forest City Image Centre/CameraCanada Sports The Snipe Academy of London has one goal in mind: enhancing the hockey experience in the community. To do so, the Academy uses its crew of high-quality instructors to offer well-structured programs for players looking to improve on the little things within the game.

Small class sizes are a source of pride for Snipe Academy, which was launched by a AAA hockey coach – with the support of fellow coaches and parents. The best part about Snipe? All training takes place on skates, on the training ice at the facility. That means providing the real hockey experience without the cost of ice time. Rich Palser can certainly vouch for the effectiveness of Snipe Academy in preparing players for success. His team, the London Jr. Knights Atom AA White squad, used the Academy for its London Jr. Knights Atom AA White Team pre-season training Back row (left to right): Coaches Jeff Petruzella, Rich Palser, Dave Leff, Jamie Howes, Jack Falls. Back row (players): camp in the fall, Damon Spencer, Martin Zafka, Merryck Jacklin-De-Tibeiro, Adam Vanderheide, Daniel Wojnowski. Middle row: Brady McIntosh, Adam Leff, Owen Bevan, Gage Landgren, Jordan Howes, Nick Petruzella. Front row: Easton Falls, Nicholas which consisted Mangialardi, Nicolas Castrilli, Reid Palser, Ethan Howard, Brandon Balcar

of weekly team shooting sessions and goaltending instruction. “It served as a great team-building exercise because it gave the players and parents an opportunity to bond away from the rink,” Palser said. “And many of our players have continued to use Snipe Academy throughout the season. They’ve enjoyed their classes, and they’ve been able to get those extra reps needed to help our team succeed.” And succeed they have. The Atoms finished first in their Alliance Division (121-2), and the team has been ranked No. 2 in the province all season. They were tops in the division in goals and goals against, were a +50 on the year, and had the best goals for percentage (.805) in the AA Constellation Division – across all age groups. They also won the Glenn Bellerby AA Tournament in Barrie in January.

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