by CONNIE TABBERT
Editor
WHITEWATER REGION (Westmeath) — THWACK – That’s the sound reverberating in the Westmeath arena as a ball is smacked on the ice.
It’s the first fun night of broomball organized by Dan and Mary Garfat and children Matthew, Emily and Priscilla. It’s a game they started last year just to get people out to have some fun and enjoy a winter activity.
Broomball is for all ages who can safely go on the ice. It is played every other Sunday afternoon in the Westmeath Arena from 4 to 4:50 p.m. The scheduled Sundays are Nov. 5 and 19 and Dec. 3 and 17.
For those not familiar with broomball, Mary explained that it’s played on ice with a ball that’s just smaller than a soccer ball and a little harder. The players use a specially designed broom to hit the ball from player to player.
“It’s almost like hockey,” she said.
The only equipment each person must supply is a helmet and clean running shoes, or broomball shoes if they have them. The Garfats supply the ball and Beachburg Public School the brooms, she added. However, Mary said if anyone would like to donate broomball shoes and helmets, that would be great.
In her teen years, Mary played broomball and decided to play again. It’s operated through the Westmeath District Recreation Association. It costs $3 a person with the money going to the WDRA.
The Sweet Shack, aka the arena canteen, is open most times during the time of broomball, she sid.
While she remembers many of the rules, Mary said if anyone is familiar with the game and wants to just come out and give them a clinic on a Sunday game night, that would be great.
For more information, email Mary at [email protected] or call her, 613-582-7491.
“Come and join in the fun,” Mary said, adding, “Bring the whole family.”
