Due to my sports writer background, I thrive on reporting and writing on all sports conceivable by the human imagination.
I’ve often strayed from the mainstream sports of hockey, basketball, baseball and football into the realm of obscure sports, as well. I’ve tried out for cheerleading teams, participated in cheese wheel rolling competitions and once documented an Alcoholics Anonymous baseball rehabilitation program — all just to get a story. In fact, there are not many sports I have not covered throughout my whacky career.
From novice to bantam hockey, and curling I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time covering the goings-on at the Cowichan Lake Sports Arena. I have been equally impressed with high-level of female participation in hockey in Lake Cowichan, too, as well as its figure skating program.
However, there is something missing: no midget hockey team exists this season, albeit a few outsider area teams playing here.
This is truly unfortunate. The midget team would have brought the best games and the best opportunity to witness a higher-level of skill in town. The next age-skill level below midget is bantam. The bantams have a solid team this year, but it still would have been nice to see some midget action.
There are also no girl’s or boy’s Lakers basketball teams at Lake Cowichan Secondary School this year. This, too is sad to learn, as I understand the school boasts quite the bastketball legacy, although volleyball remains popular.
As far as senior baseball or hockey goes, there is none either. Of course, there is slo-pitch, which is also good, but having a competitive baseball league is something I would love to have had to both report on and play in.
And from a community that has produced countless professional and semi-professional athletes like Dawn Coe-Jones, this decline is slightly alarming.
If you ever see me at the arena, don’t be afraid to say “Hi,” and point out your kid on the ice. I’ll be the tall, awkward guy with the camera and note pad. Until then, keep your sticks on the ice!