Orange Division

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER???

Posted July 21 2010 by Orange Convenor

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER???

Procrastination is a horrible thing, and obviously, I am struggling with it on a daily basis ( pretty weak excuse but, that’s my story and I’m sticking to it).

So, we find ourselves in the middle of a fabulous summer, so far, and what better time to do my ” season ending blog “? I have had a few inquiries as to it’s whereabouts from players with nothing better to do in the off season, but that’s ok.

This years final featured ( yet again ) the trio of Robert ( Buddy ) Fugard, Barry Walsh, and Andy Grougrou, laying in the weeds all winter long, leading their White Bruins through the Round Robin, and battling David Lenover’s Black Hawks in a very entertaining and exciting final, with the Bruins prevailing in overtime, 4-3. The games MVP was Pat Cocklin, who scored twice, including the winner in OT , playing 3 on 3, with his ( predictable )” toe drag” laser that whistled past Dave ( Mick) Amicarelli’s ear before he could move. All in all a very entertaining game.

Prior to the game, the 3rd annual FRED GUISTINI award was presented to Frank McKeown, who, as many of you know, dedicates his heart and soul, not to mention countless hours, making the BOHC a great place to play. Frank, of course, is our Past President, and currently represents the BOHC with his role on the ” ice council “, and was recently involved in negotiating a long term deal with the City of Burlington for the Oldtimers. The award is not just about ” giving back” to the BOHC but also speaks to sportsmanship, fair play, and a respect for other players on the ice, which Frank has done since his rookie year 24 years ago…....kidding of course. Congratulations Frank!

At this time, I would like to acknowledge the efforts and time spent by our group of Captains this year. Captains, in my eyes are just one of the elements that makes the Orange Division as enjoyable as it is, and obviously makes my job as easy as it is. This is a great group of guys that worked extremely well together all year long. My sincere thanks goes to Mike Downey ( Green Leafs ) Buddy Fugard ( White Bruins), Angelo Sottana ( Teal Ticklers ) David Lenover ( Black Hawks ), Dave Guluche ( Gold Members), and Glen Downey ( Red Liners). All but Glenn Downey will be returning next year for their 2nd and final year as Captains, and Steve Taylor will be filling Glenn Downeys role, which are rather large shoes to fill, given the terrific job Glenn has done for the past two years. I would also like to acknowledge my ( silent ) partner/co-convenor, Mark Anderson for his assistance, time and input for the past year, much appreciated Mark, thank-you. Finally, I would like to thank our petite French pool convenor, who wears his heart on his sleeve when it comes to looking after finding players for our Captains, that, more often than not would give him 1 hours notice to come up with a body, not to mention the use of his house whenever we had meetings through the year. Many thanks Andre.

I would like to wish speedy recoveries to the following players, who were injured, prior to the season starting or during the season, and were unable to finish( or start )They are…Brian Donohue, Rob Duncan, George Groenewagen, Bruce Bishop, Jeannot Morin , Mark Thompson, and John Murray. Hopefully the summer months will be the cure for whatever ails you…

Some final thoughts….this past year was one of the best in recent memory from a stand point of good clean Hockey. I had no discipline issues to deal with, and only 1 ” brain cramp “. For this, I thank all of you for keeping in perspective, that we are all out to play some shinny, and go for a pop afterwards to yak about it. As you all now by now, there will be major changes in the BOHC in the 2010/2011 season with a new division being added ( Black, which will be placed between the Green/White Divisions ), coupled with Appleby’s new facility being ready for the start of the season. I will be updating my blog in the next 4-6 weeks ( hopefully ) outlining, and updating everything that has transpired.

I wish you and your families a safe and enjoyable summer, enjoy it, because it does tend to fly by. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to call me anytime…..

Take care guys….

Ken Warren
Orange Division Convenor