Dear Editor,
Re: Kudos to hockey coaches for their positive impact, letter to the editor, March 15
It is wonderful to read a positive and appreciative letter to the editor. After 18 years of minor and junior hockey and as a coach's wife, it is great to have an acknowledgement for the effort, the many hours and the miles traveled, all for the experience and growth of the kids of our community.
The words from my son as he aged out (three years ago already) from the North Okanagan Knights Junior Hockey Team in the KIJHL really sums it up:
Hey fellas (classic hockey player greeting), as of March 5, 2020, I have officially finished my junior hockey career. It’s nuts how fast the last three years have gone and the changes I’ve seen and gone through myself. Even crazier how fast my time with the Okotoks Minor Hockey Association went.
Over my junior career, I achieved most improved player my first year, went on to being one of the top D in the league my second year and being the captain for the team that brought me on when I was 18. It’s pretty crazy to remember when my first junior coach brought me in before a game and said we’re making cuts tonight, show me why I want you and I was signed two hours later after the game.
I ran outside and hugged my mom who was there for the start of my career and I’m lucky enough to have finished my career the same way, with support from my team and a hug from my mom.
With almost 150 games, countless 7 a.m. practices and community volunteering, I wouldn’t change it for the world. Seems like yesterday I was walking half-dressed to the rink for our Timbits team picture with my closest friends and dads. It goes too fast.
So remember that it may be tough physically and mentally but remember why you do it — because you love it. For those thinking of playing junior or continuing their career whatever that may look like, all I can say is do it. There’s nothing that will build stronger bonds to some really amazing people. If you blink, you’ll miss it, so cherish the time.
It’s hard to say goodbye and it’s harder to say goodbye to something that’s been a major part of my life for the last 16 years. Thank you to all the coaches, fans, bus drivers, billets and, most importantly, friends and parents.
Tania Haberlack-Dolan
Okotoks
