by BOB GRYLLS
Whitewater News Reporter
WHITEWATER REGION (Westmeath) — Westmeath and Beachburg minor hockey teams held their annual end-of-season banquet at the Westmeath Community Hall, on Sunday, April 8. The Master of Ceremonies was Neil Nicholson and the duties of the day streamed along like a well-oiled machine.
The combined teams of Novice, Atom, Bantam, Midget and Peewee were each brought onto the stage and introduced by their respective coaches.
The hockey tragedy involving the Humboldt Broncos bus accident was recalled and a minute of silence was held to remember those who lost their lives and who remain in hospital, and to keep the families and friends in our thoughts.
Jen Ethier said grace and thanked those who brought the food and Anne Bromley for organizing the banquet. Angie Dupuis, Anna Vereyken and Jen Ethier took care of the kitchen.
During the introduction, Nicholson had the parents stand while the players applauded them for all their efforts of support.
“Parents are so important to the continuation of minor hockey in rural areas,” he said.
Nicholson acknowledged Westmeath head referee Peter Ethier on behalf of all his team of refs and as well, Beachburg head referee Chris Jeepes and his team. He did admit that at times he did question some calls of the ‘black and white’ but in the end, they all broke bread together.
He told of Dave Lessard who wasn’t a coach this year, the first in many years, and that Dave apologised for not being able to use his colourful language this year at the Banquet.
The Novice 2 team were first up to the stage and recognized by coach Adrian Vereyken. April Keller thanked him for stepping up as the coach when there was no one available. Of the 21 players, eight were in their first year and six in the second.
The Atoms were next with coach Dan Moore and assistant coach Derek England. The team lost only once during the season. Kelsey, Dan’s daughter, thanked all those who helped with the team.
For the Bantam team, Cory Vereyken, assistant coach, filled in. The team record was 12-5-3 for a 3rd place finish. Achievement awards were too difficult to determine. However, the most improved player was Jenna Thoms and for sportsmanship, Colin Law. Cory thanked his players, Mel DeHaan for his time and service, Neil Nicholson for keeping them organised and especially Glenna White for the extras she took care of.
Jeff Vereyken brought his Midget team to the front for introductions. They had a fourth- place finish in the league.
The six girls were treated the same as the boys and all demonstrated respect for each other. He had a special thankyou for Anne Bromley and her influence.
The Peewee’s, coached by Neil Nicholson and assisted by Joey Sicoli, had some dramatic finishes in late season games.
“When Neil enters a dressing room, he brings laughter and hope to the team,” Sicoli said.
For those wondering why the Peewees followed the Bantams, it was because Neil had arranged something special for Mel de Haan.
Arena manager Mel de Haan was honoured as he was called onto stage, followed by all the players at the banquet. A photo was then taken and it will framed and hung in the waiting/trophy area.
