Get ready, hockey fans! Mattawa is about to become a winter wonderland of slapshots and soaring pucks with the launch of 'Hockey Month in Mattawa'! This January, the town is transforming into a hockey haven, packed with events designed to thrill enthusiasts of all ages.
Spearheading this exciting initiative is Mattawa’s Parks and Recreation Supervisor, Sheri Wabie, who, inspired by the spirit of Hockey Night in Canada, has orchestrated a jam-packed schedule. Her goal? To fill January with as much hockey excitement as possible. And judging by the lineup, she's definitely succeeded!
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- North Bay Battalion Public Skate: Kick things off on January 10th with a free public skate featuring members of the North Bay Battalion OHL team. From 3:30 to 5 p.m., you can hit the ice, meet the team, and grab some photos and autographs.
- Legends Tour NHL Alumni Game: On January 17th, the Legends Tour NHL Alumni will grace Mattawa with their presence. Hockey legends like Ron and Rich Sutter, Brian Srudland, John LeBlanc, and Bernie Nicholls will be taking to the ice. They'll face off against a team of local Mattawa players, including Brody Belanger, Eric Boule, and others. The game starts at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.). Tickets are available for \$40 (general admission), with VIP Meet and Greet passes available for \$100. During intermission, the Northern Edge Adult 3 Synchro Team will entertain the crowd.
- Ted Nolan Speaking Event: On January 21st, former NHL player Ted Nolan will share his life and career experiences at F.J. McElligott Secondary School. Nolan, a trailblazer for Indigenous players in the NHL, will discuss his journey, including his coaching stints with the Buffalo Sabres and New York Islanders. The event is free, but tickets are required and available at Mattawa’s Information Centre. The talk begins at 7 p.m.
- Powassan Voodoos Free Skate and Hockey Card Trading: Wrap up the month with a free skate with the Powassan Voodoos on January 24th from 1 to 2:30 p.m. At the same time, there will also be a hockey card trading event at the arena. To book a table, call Wabie at 705-744-5611, extension 141.
But here's where it gets controversial...
All events, except for the Ted Nolan talk, will take place at Mattawa’s Mike Rodden Arena. Tickets for the Legends Tour game are available at the Mattawa Information Centre, the Mike Rodden Arena, or by calling Sheri Wabie.
What do you think? Are you excited about 'Hockey Month in Mattawa'? Which event are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And, do you think events like these help to grow the love of hockey in smaller communities? Let's discuss!
