Orange Division

“DOWN THE STRETCH THEY COME!”

Posted March 25 2008 by Orange Convenor

“DOWN THE STRETCH THEY COME!”

Fellow Orange Division Players:

Just a few thoughts, and information I would like to pass on.

As we near the end of the season, and approach the “ROUND ROBIN”, I think it is necessary to re-enforce with “all” the players the true spirit of old-timers hockey , which is ” to enhance the enjoyment of participation, and to exemplify the sportsmanship of it’s players”. At the start of the season, play in the Orange Division was noticeably quicker resulting in less penalties, due to the pace of the game. However, over the past 4-6 weeks, more and more players are taking liberties resulting in unnecessary “aggressive, and chippy” play. It concerns me that I have had at least 6 long standing players in the BOHC, over the past few weeks, complain about ” extra curricular” activities, and how angry they were and vowed revenge. These statements are coming from players who are mild mannered, and typically don’t get involved in these type of altercations. We all recognize the fact that there is a possibility of injury, due to the nature of the game, but when it comes from unnecessary stick work, or an overly aggressive hit, then that’s where the frustration, and ultimately reciprocation can, and has been evident. There is a definite lack of respect going on with your fellow competitors recently, and we all need to get back to the real reason why we joined the BOHC. As rule # 5 (a ) clearly states, “ANY MEMBER WHO CONDUCTS HIMSELF IN A MANNER HAVING LITTLE OR NO REGARD FOR THE SAFETY AND WELL BEING OF OTHER PLAYERS OR MEMBERS OF THE BOHC, OR CONDUCTS HIMSELF IN A MANNER NOT KEEPING WITH THE PURPOSE OF THE BOHC WILL BE SUBJECT TO A DISCIPLINARY HEARING”. As we all know here, this speaks to ” intent to injure “, and as recently illustrated, will not be tolerated, and dealt with as a serious offence, with “zero tolerance”.
All I’m requesting here guys, is that you think twice before handing out that extra bump, or stickwork…..we all have to get up the next morning for work!! enuff said!

Moving on, I failed in my earlier communication to recognize, and thank all of our captains this year, who I think have all done a terrific job, demonstrating what being a leader is all about. They are Mike Motz ( Teal), Barry Walsh ( Red ), Jeannot Morin ( White ), Rob Field ( Green ), Brad Howe ( Blue ), and last but not least John Rivard ( Black ). John is the only Captain not returning next year, as he has completed his 2 years of service. Glenn Downey ( also of Black ) has volunteered to step in next year and replace John. My job is a whole lot easier when you have the type of Captains I have had this year. Another thank you goes to Andre Leclerc, who filled in during my absents and looked after the pool players.
Thanks again guys.

Also, some of you may or not be aware, but the Red Division has the “Don Glenn Award”, the White Division has the"Don Hammond Award”, both dedicated to the memory of these players, and awarded yearly as ” OLDTIMERS OF THE YEAR”, for their respective divisions, which best exemplifies the true spirit of the BOHC. This year, I would like to introduce the “FRED GUISTINI Award”. For the veteran Orange players that remember Fred ( who sadly passed away 2 1/2 years ago), they will remember him as a very kind and gentle man.Fred was a true Old-timer, in how he conducted himself on and off the ice, always smiling, and played with a lot of heart and a true passion for the game. Fred was 62 when he played his last year in the Orange Division, and although his speed was not what it once was, ( who’s is at that age), he played ” smart” and had silky smooth hands. I believe the only thing he enjoyed more than playing in the BOHC was his true love of his Montreal Canadiens. I will request from each Captain their nominee for this award, which will be presented by Linda Guistini, Freds wife, prior to the Orange Division Final, Sunday April 20th at 3:20 p.m.

In closing, I think overall this has been a very good year, with the exception of one “incident”. Most games are very competitive, and as previously mentioned the calibre of our division has definitely improved, and we will strive to keep moving forward.

Thanks guys, see ya on the ice, have fun, keep your head up, sticks down and play safe…..

Ken Warren
Orange Division Convenor