It is almost that time of year when the Parksville Panters host another September Old Timers Hockey tournament.
This year’s tournament kicks off on Tuesday, Sept. 19 and runs through to Thursday, Sept. 21 at the Oceanside Arena here in Parksville.
It has been a few years since the tournament had 30 entries from all around North America. This promises to bring some highly skilled players, who have played all levels of hockey in their careers, to Oceanside.
Admission is free and every hockey enthusiasts will enjoy some top competitive hockey over these three days.
The Parksville Panters are part of the Parksville Golden Oldies Sports Association (PGOSA), which has around 200 members playing hockey with ages ranging from 55 to 85 years old.
These players can be found on the ice five days a week and compete in a variety of tournaments around the province. However, the September Classic is one of the most popular tournaments in B.C. as it features not only hockey but also a variety of social events that include wine and cheese party, a banquet at Cuckoos in Coombs, beer garden, pancake breakfast and a host of prizes.
This year’s tournament has five age categories — four teams entered in the 55 division, six teams in the 60 division, 6 teams in the 65 division, 8 teams in the 70 division, and six teams in the 75 division.
Some of the teams entered are coming from Manitoba, Alberta, Ontario, British Columbia and also from the United States.
The organization and players would like to see a good turnout at the games.
— Submitted by Al Grier