sport in aurora - vol. 5 issue 4

Volume 5 \\\ Issue 4

Work Hard, Play Hard, Win Big! PG.19

PLUS

VOLLEYBALL 15U Typhoon Storm Through Beach Provincials

SWIMMING Aurora Ducks Back in the Pool and Making Waves

RUGBY Aurora Barbs U18 Women are Provincial Champions

AND MUCH MORE

FromNHLPLAYEr toJuNiorAHockEY

JIMTHOMSON

4Th AnnUAl MAyor’S BREAkfASt Of CHAMPIONS PG.14

tEAm oWNEr

ExPEriEnTiAl ExCUrSionS BUilD rESiliEnCE AnD STronG ChArACTEr PG.20

AUrorA SPorTS hAll oF FAME 2015 INDUCTEES PG.16

DISCOVERTHE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

It could be a pair of track shoes, a theatrical costume, or maybe even a robotics set. If your child has a passion for something, we will harness it and take it to a whole new level. If they have yet to fi nd it, we will dig down deep and explore all the possibilities, and not stop until we unearth that one thing that opens their mind and their eyes as big as humanly possible. It’s an incredible place to discover big, dreamy answers to the question,

WHO WILL YOU BE?cds.on.ca/whowillyoube

The Country Day School offers JK-12 in a co-ed, non-denominational environment located on 100 beautiful acres in King.

13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5T: 905 833 1972 www.cds.on.ca

JOIN US AT

AN OPEN HOUSE

October 24

10 am – 1 pm

November 19

9 am – 12 pm

CDS_Sport_in_Aurora_Ad_2015-09-25_FINAL.indd 1 9/21/15 5:26 PM

v5i4 / SPortiNAurorA / 3

CONTENTS

05 Editor’s Letter

06 From the Director of

Parks and Recreation

07 Local Student to Represent

Canada at World Triathlon

Championships

08 Special Olympics Ontario –

Aurora Celebrates a Great

Year and plans for 10th!

10 Aurora Ducks Are

Back in the Pool and

Making Waves

11 Master Ducks Season off

to a Swimming Start

14 Fourth Annual Mayor’s

Breakfast of Champions

“The Best Ever”

15 15U Typhoon Storm

Through Beach Provincials

15 Storm Donates to All Kids

Can Play!

16 Aurora Sports Hall of Fame

– 2015 Inductees

16 Aurora Sports Hall of Fame

Announces Media Award

17 52 Pick Me Up – Get in

the Game!

17 TICKETS ON SALE NOW –

Aurora Sports Hall of Fame

2015 Induction Dinner

18 Aurora Barbarians U18

Women are Provincial

Champions

19 Work Hard, Play Hard,

Win Big

20 Experiential Excursions

Build Resilience and

Strong Character

22 Aurora Community

Tennis Club Creating

a Sport Destination

22 Lawn Bowling Completes

Busy Season

JimtHomSoN–AurorAtiGErSFrom Playing in the NHL to Owning A Junior A Hockey Team Photo courtesy of Nick Negri

20Volume 5 \\\ Issue 4

WORK HARD, PLAY HARD, WIN BIG! PG.13

PLUS

VOLLEYBALL15U Typhoon Storm Through

Beach Provincials

SWIMMINGAurora Ducks Back in the

Pool and Making Waves

RUGBYAurora Barbs U18 Women

are Provincial Champions

AND MUCH MORE

FROM NHL PLAYER

TO JUNIOR A HOCKEY

JIM

THOMSON

4TH ANNUAL MAYOR’S BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS PG.10

TEAM

OWNER

EXPERIENTIAL EXCURSIONS

BUILD RESILIENCE AND STRONG CHARACTER PG.14AURORA SPORT HALL OF FAME

2015 INDUCTEES PG.12

07

08 18

1913 covErStorY

4 \ SPortiNAurorA \ v5i4

September/October 2015 VOLUME 5, ISSUE 4

PublisherInsport Media & Publications Inc.

editorRon Weese – Sport Aurora e-mail [email protected]

director of salesLaurie MuellerPhone 905.713.5027 e-mail [email protected]

art directorFrank Di Tomasso e-mail [email protected]

editorial contributionSport Aurora Members Raymond NobleTown of Aurora Kate BayneMayor Geoff Dawe Len GurrBrent MacKinnon Melony Teague John Reich Bruce Stafford Linda Therkildsen Zach Lawton

contact usInsport Media & Publications412 McCafferey Road Newmarket, Ontario L3X 1T5Phone 905.713.5027 e-mail [email protected]

editorial contributions Submissions are wel-come from writers, photographers, athletes, coaches and individuals. Contact Ron Weese, editor. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. Contributions are responsible for obtaining all approvals for publica-tion of photos and content prior to submission. All sub-missions may not be used. We may edit, publish, repro-duce, distribute and archive submissions in any form or medium without any compensation. We are not respon-sible for lost or damaged submissions. Contents copy-righted. All rights reserved. Reproduction or transmis-sion of any article, photograph or artwork in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher is prohibited. Sport in Aurora Magazine is published six times a year. For detailed circulation information, con-tact Insport Media & Publications Inc. Insport Media & Publications Inc. is committed to protecting your privacy as our customer. We may collect personal information only if it is required for the proper functioning of our business and only share this information with our busi-ness partners. The editors and contributors who write for Insport Media & Publications Inc. attempt to pro-vide accurate and useful information and commentary. However the editors, contributors and Insport Media & Publications Inc. cannot and do not guarantee the ac-curacy of this information. We assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any readers based on the information provided.

PRINTED IN CANADA


In this issue you will see a story about our Aurora sports champions who were honoured at the 4th Annual

Mayor’s Breakfast of Champions held at Kings Riding Golf Club on September 12th (page 14). It is with pride we celebrate the results of dedication, drive and com-mitment that our sport organizations, coaches, athletes and parents provide each year.

And that isn’t all the awards that were passed out! Sport Volunteers were also recognized for their contributions at the Annual Volunteer Recognition Luncheon, sponsored this year by Magna International at East Side Mario’s on October 18th. And on November 4th, three Aurorans will be Inducted into the Aurora Sports Hall of Fame at a celebration being held this year at historic St. Andrew’s College. A special Media Award will also be presented that evening. Read their biographies on page 16 and/or visit www.aurorashof.ca for more about “the Hall” and the Honoured Members within. If you are fortunate enough to be in at-tendance at this important sport celebra-

tion, you know why this is considered the premiere sport celebration event of the year in Aurora.

We welcome the Aurora Tigers Junior “A” hockey Club to Sport Aurora and this publication and I urge local support for this team (cover and pages 12/13). Owner Jim Thomson is committed to the success of this team and is clear that he wants this Club to be a rallying point for the entire Town and something for us to be proud. His Club is the newest Member of Sport Aurora and we look forward to working with him.

Sport Aurora has been busy providing input to the new Sport Plan as well as the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and we encourage public participation in the surveys and other opportunities for input. One of the initiatives in the Sport Plan is Sport Tourism. Sport Aurora and our sport organization members, in conjunc-tion with Central Counties Tourism, The Chamber of Commerce and the Town or Aurora will be publishing a new Tourism Guide to welcome all of our sport tour-ists to our Community. It will be called

“Play in Aurora” and will be available fall and spring of each year. We will also be displaying a list of all our sporting events on our web site and we encour-age all Aurora residents to support these events throughout the year and of course welcome our visitors for the duration of their stay.

Enjoy this issue and I’ll see you on the fields, at the rink, in the gym’s and beside the pool!

Ron Weese Editor, Sport in Aurora Magazine

The Mission of Sport Aurora is to promote participation in sport and recreation for all citizens of the community we serve. For more information on Sport Aurora, visit our web site at:www.sportaurora.ca

SPortENtErSABuSYtimE

EDITOR’S LETTER

As the leAves And temperAtures fAll, SpOrT HeaTS up!

www.aurora.caTown of Aurora 100 John West Way, Aurora, ON L4G 6J1 • 905-727-1375

Upcoming Special Events

TOWN OF AURORA

*Weather-permitting PLEASE NOTE, WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO CANCEL, AMEND OR CHANGE LOCATIONS AND ACTIVITIES.

Allan DowneyDirector, Parks & Recreation Services Town of Aurora

Santa Under the Stars ParadeSaturday, November 28 Yonge StreetDress up in your winter woollies and join us for this year’s sparkling parade as Santa comes to Aurora. This “must-see” parade travels south on Yonge Street from Orchard Heights Boulevard to Murray Drive .

Tree Lighting CeremonyWednesday, December 9 Aurora Town Hall and Aurora Seniors’ CentreThe Town of Aurora hosts the official tree lighting ceremony at Aurora Town Hall to kick off the holiday season. Enjoy caroling, a fire juggling show, make-and-take ornaments and visit with live reindeer! Our official lighting of the tree event includes a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. Don’t miss this festive family event!

Aurora’s BorealisMonday, December 14 Aurora Town ParkThe trees at Aurora Town Park are lit every evening from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. until February 2016. Enjoy the lights while you skate on our outdoor ice rink*.

To learn more about these and other Town of Aurora events, please call 905-726-4762 or visit www.aurora.ca

With autumn here and students back in school, we hope that families take the opportunity to enjoy our fun fall events to welcome the most vibrant and colourful time of the year.

In October, we hosted two popular and exciting events: Colours of Fall Concert and Haunted Forest. Don’t miss our next event, Santa Under the Stars Parade on Saturday, November 28. For more information about all of our upcoming events, please visit www.aurora.ca/specialevents

On another note, during the Year of Sport the Town is preparing a Sport Plan focusing on seven strategic directives. The Sport Plan will ensure that staff and community sport organizations continue to deliver quality sports programs in the Town by focusing on developing community partnerships, public engagement and investments that will ultimately enhance sport delivery throughout the Town.

The Sport Plan also coincides with our Parks & Recreation Master Plan update. The focus of this update will be to establish service levels for our indoor and outdoor facilities and prepare an implementation plan to deliver services to the community.

We are holding a series of focus groups and public meetings to better gauge the future needs for our stakeholders, residents and users. Please visit www.aurora.ca/sportplan or www.aurora.ca/masterplan for dates and further information.

Have your say! Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to share their thoughts on sporting needs and future recreation opportunities for the Town. We would like to create more opportunities for sport in Aurora and make sure that all considerations and suggestions are assessed. I value your input. Please email me at [email protected] with any recommendations. We are aiming for Council approval on the plans in mid-January.

Enjoy the crisp cool air and the changing colours of the leaves. Aurora is absolutely beautiful during this season!

2015 Sport In Aurora October.indd 1 25/09/2015 1:17:36 PM


TRIATHLON – The Country Day School

///ByZachLawton,countryDaySchool/// PhotoscourtesyofcountryDaySchool

LOcaL STudeNT TO repreSeNT caNada aT WOrLd TrIaTHLON cHaMpIONSHIpS

Logan Hunt has been involved in athletics for as long has he can

remember. The determined, yet unassuming Grade 11 student from King loves to compete, but it’s his love for running that drives him. It has been an exciting year for Logan, full of personal accomplishments while setting his sights on future competition goals.

Logan did not hesitate to join sports teams when the opportunity arose as a Junior

School student at The Country Day School, and he eagerly joined the CDS cross country, track and field, and basketball teams. He enjoyed playing all of these sports, but discovered early on that he had a particular aptitude for track.

Running came easily to Logan, but although he demonstrated a natural talent for track, he felt he wasn’t ready to commit to it. “I would only train at school. Looking back, I wasn’t at the maturity level necessary to commit hours outside of school, I needed to grow up a bit more.”

It wasn’t until entering high school that he felt ready. After years of being satisfied with finishing well at CISAA events, Logan decided to take a chance to see what else he could

accomplish. He started to work with C3 triathlon coach, Sean Bechtel, who helps with his training routine between races.

The newfound dedication paid off and Logan qualified for OFSAA in both Grades 9 and 10. Despite the qualification, Logan felt he could improve upon his race results. With increased determination, he made some adjustments to his approach and managed to qualify for the York Region Metros Track and Field Championships. Throughout 2014 he never finished outside of the Top 15.

Last summer, Logan raced in the Toronto Triathlon Festival. All of his previous training paid off when a strong finish meant he was selected to represent Canada at the World Championships next year in Mexico. “I was shocked,” he remembers upon hearing the news. “It completely validated my previous training and encouraged me to train further. You can do anything if you work hard at it.”

Logan believes that his successes in triathlon were made possible by his continued involvement with the CDS Cross Country teams. This year he will run cross country, track and field, and plans to be on the alpine ski team. OFSAA is still his cross country goal, and he hopes to improve on his previous two appearances.

Meanwhile, his long-term objectives remain clear. Logan would like to place well at the World Championships next year, and qualify for the 2017 Championships. He understands that big goals are accomplished by small improvements, “I have faced opponents who are faster than me, I have gauged where I am in the field. My main goal now is to close the gap.”


\\\Bymelonyteague \\\PhotoscourtesyofSpecialolympics-Aurora

SpecIaL OLyMpIcS ONTarIO – aurOra ceLebraTeS a GreaT year aNd pLaNS fOr 10TH!

Sometimes Annual General Meetings are boring and the main goal is to present the financial statements

of an organization. That was not the case at the Annual General Meeting of Special Olympics Ontario – Aurora. There was laughter, a few tears, the election of Board members, and of course the presentation of the financials, but mostly there was a sense of something great building in this community. That feeling was enhanced by the strategic vision highlights that Community Coordinator Janet Mitchell shared with the group and by the presence of some of the guests.

After the formal part of the meet-ing concluded, the athlete representa-tives from all 5 of SOO-Aurora’s Sports (Bocce, Swimming, Basketball, Golf and Softball) spoke about their sports; train-ing, competition and why it is important to them. They also thanked their families for the opportunity to take part and their volunteer coaches for their help.

Nicola McGovern, Head Coach of the Special Olympics Golf program in Aurora (Aurora Eagles), regaled the group with amazing photos and the story of her jour-ney as Team Canada Golf Head Coach at the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games, this past summer from July 25 to August 2, 2015. Accompanying Nicola was star athlete Tess Trojan who told her version, as an athlete at the

Games, of what it was like to prepare for the Games, what it was like to win a gold medal in this inaugural event and finally, how Special Olympics competi-tive opportunities have changed her life. When she explained the theme “Circle of Inclusion” from the Games, the crowd of more than 50 was riveted and those who volunteer with the organization under-stood just how meaningful there work is for the athletes and for this community.

Keeping in mind this spirit of inclusivity, former club president of the Master Ducks Swim Club and founder of Special Olympics in Aurora announced a commit-ment by the adult club to include adult Special Olympics athletes in its program-ming. Nancy Black proclaimed, “The Aurora Master Ducks will ensure that training and competitive opportunities are available to adults with intellectual disabilities. In this year of Sport in Aurora and in conjunction with the Provincial “Partners in Play” initiative, manage-ment and team members and will work closely with Special Olympics Ontario – Aurora to ensure there are no barriers to participation this year and beyond.” That statement mirrors the intentions of the Provincial initiative called Partners in Play, which, at its root, is designed to link sport organizations with Special Olympics athletes.

Following that announcement, Michael Chung, District Developer for Special Olympics Ontario Head Office, along Karla Williams who shares the same role in the GTA had some very good news to share with the group. Mr. Chung announced, “Special Olympics Ontario would like to include Aurora as a priority community for our Partners in Play project. This project will be a “stepping-stone” to

Janet, Karla, Meredith and Michael


further promote the work of Special Olympics in Aurora.” In response to com-ments made by Ms. Mitchell regarding the 10 year celebration of Special Olympics in the community, Michael added that there was cause for action now, “Since there is such a strong desire to raise awareness and to ensure that Special Olympics is part of other YEAR OF SPORT priorities, we are glad to have this great chance to work together with the Aurora Special Olympics Community, Sport Aurora and the Town of Aurora.”

Next came Gerry Therrien, the Treasurer with the Aurora Knights of Columbus (KoC) who addressed the group with a surprise announcement. He

told the gathering how meaningful the work

of both organiza-tions is to the community and how moved he was by the partner-ship that has

formed between the two. He explained how the KoC carries out some of their fundraising, and then presented the Community Coordinator with a cheque for over $1,100!

Once the applause settled, it was time for the Director of Parks & Recreation for the Town of Aurora, Al Downey to address the audience. As soon as he began to speak, Mr. Downey promised that the town would assist the work that is being planned and that he would support the Partners in Play initiative with the resources that are available. Mostly, Mr. Downey assured the parents, athletes, volunteers and coaches assembled that the work of Special Olympics in this community is valued and went so far as to say that he might assist the group with the development of a Special Olympics “Play Day” in the Community – that initiative would be part of the Activate Aurora campaign that has been launched by Sport Aurora in conjunction with the Town of Aurora. Mr. Downey also outlined the current plans that are currently underway regarding the Sports Plan and the Master Recreation Plan – his presenta-

tion was greeted with great enthusiasm and ended with shout outs for “a new 50m pool and indoor bocce courts”.

If you build it, they will come. They will all come, and Aurora is building an

active and inclusive community that

has been propelled by the Mayor’s Proclamation of the Year in Sport. What a year it is. What a legacy it will leave.

COMMUNITY – Special Olympics Ontario Aurora

Athlete Reps – Ian, Gary, Andrew, Mary and Meredith

Janet Mitchell and Al Downey Nicola McGovern and Tess Trojan


///ByDucksSwimming

THE AURORA DUCKS ARE BACK IN THE POOL AND MAKING WAVES

Ducks Swimming dove into the 2015-16 Swim Season on September 12th. Registration for the season is unsurpassed in Duck history; 200 members strong! A robust foundation for the future development of the Club.

The Ducks ran three successful weeks of summer swim camp; one week in July, August and September, and hosted record numbers of swimmers, including many veteran Ducks Swimmers, newcomers, and a number of swimmers from neighbouring teams.

THe MayOr’S breaKfaST Of cHaMpIONSSixteen Ducks were honoured at the Mayor’s Breakfast of Champions held September 12th at King’s Riding Golf Club. The annual event honours and celebrates Sport Aurora Member athletes who have achieved either Provincial, National or International status in competition. Ducks coaches and proud parents attended the event to celebrate gold medal perfor-mances by sixteen Ducks Swimmers

at the 2014 Division II Provincial Team Championships held last December in Sudbury. Gold medalist and Breakfast of Champions Honourees are: Holly Biasi, Sarah Bond, Soorna Choheili, Tyler Da Ponte, Brent Davison, Hunter Edwards, Grace Harris, Maxwell Jones, Sydney LeBlanc, Thomas Nelander, Andrew Pignatelli, Tori Rapp, Phoebe Redfern, Hayden Spiers, Chloe Taylor and George Zizakovic.

SaraH bONd & HaydeN SpIerS QuaLIfy fOr eaSTerN caNadIaNSSarah Bond and Hayden Spiers, both 15 yrs., are the latest Ducks to qualify for the Speedo Eastern Canadian Championships to be held in Montreal February 2016. Sarah and Hayden will join our veteran Eastern Canadian competi-tors, Soorna Choheili and Chloe Taylor, who competed in the event last season.

Photo Courtesy of Lubo Zizakovic


The Master Ducks welcomes their 20th anniversary year. It promises to be an absolutely great one, with many activities planned both in and out of the pool to celebrate

this milestone season. The registration ‘meet and greet’ was a big success. It was wonderful to see so many faces out to re-unite, to meet the coaches for this season and for a few brave souls, a jump start to their year with a dip in the pool. Congratulations to you!

Workouts have commenced, and while there may be some stiff muscles and much huffing and puffing, the Master Ducks all agree that it feels great to be back in the water. During this part of the season the coaches take the time to focus on skills and technique that will pay off huge dividends later in the year.

It is fun to socialize, compare notes and decompress after a workout, at our regular post workout meeting spots. It is a

really nice way to get to know your teammates outside of the pool (and sans swimming cap, with dry hair!)

There will be lots going on, and we want everyone to be as involved as possible. Check our website for more information. Also, please “like” our Facebook page and keep informed and up to date.

The Master Ducks are looking forward to an epic season with this in mind, “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

Visit their brand new website for more information at www.masterducks.ca or email the administrator, Kate Bayne: [email protected]

SWIMMING – Master Ducks

MaSTer ducKS SeaSON Off TO a SWIMMING STarT\\\BykateBayne \\\PhotocourtesyofmasterDucksSwimclub

DUCK PLAYThe Ducks spent some recreational time with their feathered friends on the Paint Ball Field and gathered for a BBQ afterwards. A little fun and team bonding to set the stage for another successful swim season!

The Ducks competed in their first meet of the Season, MAC Fall Fest at the Markham Pan Am Pool, October 16 – 18.

SWIMMING – Ducks Swimming

Hunter Edwards and Kelly Photo Courtesy of Edit Varga

HuNTer edWardS SeLecTed fOr SWIM ONTarIO caNada Id prOGraMThirteen year old Hunter Edwards has been selected by Swim Ontario to partici-pate in the Canada Games ID Program. Hunter was selected based on FINA (International Swimming Federation) points in the 200 m Breaststroke, a top 5 placing in Ontario in the 100 m Breaststroke, and the required age of eligibility (Females born 2002 or younger). Hunter will attend two 2 day camps in November and March and is “on track” to earn a berth on the 2017 Canada Games Team.

Photo Courtesy of Edit Varga

(l-r) Greg Rapp and Dan Lindquist (Stouffville Master Ducks), Andy Mitchell and Favin Heilbron at 2015 Ontario Masters swim meet.


Thank You For Your Support Today for the Aurora Food Pantry!There is a year-round need to help feed families that are hungry.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Including family fun, feature players, 50/50 tickets and WIN game tickets!

Pink in the Rink FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23RD

Proceeds to benefit Southlake Regional Health Centre for Breast Cancer awareness and research. Come and support this great cause!

The Battle of Yonge Street Continues!Friday, October 23rd Aurora Tigers vs. Newmarket Hurricanes – Puck drops at 7:30pm.

Join us Friday, October 23rd for our FIRST-EVER Aurora Tiger

Shoot the Puck & WIN A CAR Contest !!!

2nd Annual Tiger Quilt RaffleTickets sales begin November 6th

Thank you to the Aurora Seniors Centre for designing, creating anddonating this year’s one-of-a-kind, Tiger Keepsake Quilt.

Teddy Bear Toss November 20th or 27th – watch for details. Bring a NEW plush Teddy to this game and toss it onto the ice at the first Tiger goal. They will be collected by our Firefighter friends and donated to a child that doesn’t have a Teddy.

Aurora Tigers HOCKEY CLUB

AuroraTigers.PointStreakSites.com@TigersJrA | /aurora.tigersjra

Fans In The Stands Cheer Loud - Tiger Proud!

SEPTEMBER10 – at Newmarket 7:30pm17 – at Stouffville 7:30pm18 – vs. St. Mikes20 – at Whitby 2:10pm22 – Buffalo vs. Burlington Showcase 10am23 – Buffalo vs. Mississauga Showcase 10:30am27 – at Kingston 3pm

OCTOBER2 – vs. Kingston3 – vs. Cobourg8 – at Kingston 7pm9 – vs. Buffalo

11 – at Markham 1pm12 – at Cobourg 7pm16 – at Wellington 7:30pm17 – at Mississauga 7:30pm

23 – Pink in the Rink vs. Newmarket24 – at Toronto Jr. Canadians 8pm28 – at Trenton 7:30pm30 – vs. Stouffville 31 – vs. Pickering

NOVEMBER6 – vs. Kingston8 – at Whitby 2:10pm13 – at Lindsay 7:30pm14 – vs. Wellington20 – vs. Orangeville21 – vs. Wellington27 – vs. Stouffville27 – vs. Milton

DECEMBER4 – at Lindsay 7:30pm5 – vs. Trenton6 – at Pickering 6:30pm9 – at Trenton 7:30pm11 – vs. Trenton12 – vs. Whitby

JANUARY3 – at North York 3pm8 – at Pickering 7:30pm9 – vs. Lindsay10 – at Markham 1pm15 – vs. Trenton (may be a showcase game but ice booked in Aurora JIC)

16 – at Lindsay (may be a show case game)

21 – at Newmarket 7:30pm29 – vs. Georgetown30 – vs. Lindsay

FEBRUARY5 – vs. Whitby6 – vs. Pickering8 – at Cobourg 7pm12 – vs. Cobourg13 – vs. Markham14 – at Wellington 2pm17 – at Toronto Patriots 8pm19 – vs. Newmarket20 – at Stouffville 7pm26 – at Oakville 7:30pm

Aurora Tigers O. J. H . L . J R . A

2015-16 Schedule

AuroraTigers.PointStreakSites.com


OCTOBER2 – vs. Kingston3 – vs. Cobourg8 – at Kingston 7pm9 – vs. Buffalo11 – at Markham 1pm12 – at Cobourg 7pm16 – at Wellington 7:30pm17 – at Mississauga 7:30pm23 – Pink in the Rink vs. Newmarket24 – at Toronto Jr. Canadians 8pm28 – at Trenton 7:30pm30 – vs. Stouffville31 – vs. Pickering

NOVEMBER6 – vs. Kingston7 – vs. Markham8 – at Whitby 2:10pm13 – at Lindsay 7:30pm14 – vs. Wellington20 – vs. Orangeville21 – vs. Wellington27 – vs. Stouffville28 – vs. Milton


JANUARY3 – at North York 3pm8 – at Pickering 7:30pm9 – vs. Lindsay10 – at Markham 1pm15 – vs. Trenton (may be a showcase game but ice booked in Aurora JIC)16 – at Lindsay (may be a show case game)21 – at Newmarket 7:30pm29 – vs. Georgetown30 – vs. Lindsay


2015-16 Schedule

























2015-16 Schedule


























2015-16 Schedule


























2015-16 Schedule


























2015-16 Schedule


The Battle of Yonge Street Continues!Friday, October 23rd Aurora Tigers vs.

Newmarket Hurricanes – Puck drops at 7:30pm.



AuroraTigers-SportAurora-092015.indd 1 2015-09-29 10:31 AM


JIM THOMSON

HOCKEY – Aurora Tigers Junior A Hockey Club

frOM pLayING IN THe NHL TO OWNING a JuNIOr a HOcKey TeaM

As a young boy from Edmonton Alberta, Jim Thomson’s dream was the same as many young

Canadian boys; to play the great Canadian game of hockey at the highest level. Jim’s dream became a

reality and he played ten years in the NHL. After retiring due to a shoulder injury, he went on to mentor and train

many young athletes to help them reach their own dreams. According to Jim, owning a hockey team ranks high, just behind

playing in the game. But never did Jim and his wife Rita imagine

that they would be so fortunate. “It’s an honour and a privilege to be associated

with this historical franchise”, says Jim. “Our mission is to bring back the glory and fans

support that was once found in the Tigers Jungle in the ACC”. Back in the day, Friday night was the place

to be and every seat was filled in the arena. The “jungle” roared. We are working hard to bring the community back together again.”

What better way to spend an evening than watching some amazing local hockey.

The Thomson’s are calling on the community for support. “We cannot accomplish what we hope to achieve without the community behind us” he continued. “We have made a giant step in the short term that we have taken over; reaching out to Town officials, business owners, locally and through-out the GTA and we recognize the value of the loyal fan base right here in our home town and the response has been overwhelming,” he noted. “We extend a special thank you to our Mayor Geoff Dawe for his support and recognizing our mission. Our season opener was without a doubt a night to remember. This is exactly what we hope to achieve game after game and we believe it is going to happen. We couldn’t be more happy and ready to go. Best of all we are delivering an experience to our young players that is memorable. After the change of ownership and coaching staff the buzz was a little uneasy. They players didn’t know what to expect and we know they are pleasantly surprised,” he concluded.

One thing is for sure, Jim and Rita won’t stop until every one of those seats in that iconic arena is full. It’s the good ole days coming back again.

///ByronWeese ///Photoscourtesyofthe

oJHL,Jr.Atigers

























2015-16 Schedule



OCTOBER2 – vs. Kingston3 – vs. Cobourg8 – at Kingston 7pm9 – vs. Buffalo11 – at Markham 1pm12 – at Cobourg 7pm16 – at Wellington 7:30pm17 – at Mississauga 7:30pm23 – Pink in the Rink vs. Newmarket24 – at Toronto Jr. Canadians 8pm28 – at Trenton 7:30pm30 – vs. Stouffville31 – vs. Pickering

NOVEMBER6 – vs. Kingston7 – vs. Markham8 – at Whitby 2:10pm13 – at Lindsay 7:30pm14 – vs. Wellington20 – vs. Orangeville21 – vs. Wellington27 – vs. Stouffville28 – vs. Milton


JANUARY3 – at North York 3pm8 – at Pickering 7:30pm9 – vs. Lindsay10 – at Markham 1pm15 – vs. Trenton (may be a showcase game but ice booked in Aurora JIC)16 – at Lindsay (may be a show case game)21 – at Newmarket 7:30pm29 – vs. Georgetown30 – vs. Lindsay


2015-16 Schedule

























2015-16 Schedule


























2015-16 Schedule


























2015-16 Schedule


























2015-16 Schedule


The Battle of Yonge Street Continues!Friday, October 23rd Aurora Tigers vs.

Newmarket Hurricanes – Puck drops at 7:30pm.



AuroraTigers-SportAurora-092015.indd 1 2015-09-29 10:31 AM


SPORT AURORA – Breakfast of Champions

\\\ByronWeese \\\PhotoscourtesyofScottkimmerer

fOurTH aNNuaL MayOr’S breaKfaST Of cHaMpIONS “THe beST ever”

Saturday September 12th saw almost 200 people jam the King’s Riding Golf Club to celebrate the accomplishments of Aurora’s sport champions

for 2015. To be eligible to participate, individuals and team

had to have won a Provincial, National or International Championship within the previous 12 months. Twelve Aurora sport Organizations nominated teams and players for the honours.

The athletes, coaches, parents and supporters were entertained by television sports personality Rod Black who brought the house to laughter many times and the audience gave him a “standing O” for his insights and observations about sport and championships.

Master of Ceremonies, ex-NHLer and Aurora Tigers owner, Jim Thomson reminded the crowd how difficult it is to become a champion and observed that, even after a successful career as a professional athlete, he had only been fortunate enough

to win one championship. “Cherish this day” he told them, “as it may never come again”.

Mayor Geoff Dawe who sponsored the event for Sport Aurora, commented that this 4th year was “the best ever” and congratulated all the athletes and their parents for their commitment to excellence in all they do. It was a common thread for the day as parents were constantly recognized for their support of each athlete.

rEDBirDSLAcroSSEcLuBu13GirlsLadyredbirdsProvincialchampions

StormvoLLEYBALLcLuBu15GirlsStormtyphoonProvincialchampionsu13GirlsStormAvalancheProvincialchampions

cENtrALYorkGirLSHockEYASSociAtioNAtomBBProvincialchampionsSeniorAProvincialchampions

YorkSimcoEmiNorFootBALLASSociAtioNPeeweesProvincialchampions

SPEciALoLYmPicSoNtArio-AurorANationalchampion2014Mary Harberer

GLoBALGYmNASticScLuBAurorAProvincialchampionsLenee Dimkin Jenna Pisani

AurorABArBAriANSruGBYFootBALLcLuB2014WorldrugbycuprunnerupsJacey Murphy Tyson Beukeboom

2014ontarioStorm–rugbycanadaNationalWomen’sLeaguechampionsLori Josephson Mackenzie HiggsSydney Mann Jordyn RowntreeGill Pegg Mackenzie Fane

2014u19canadianrugbychampionshipsIan Smith Paul Ciulini

2014u16rugbycanadaNationalFestivalchampionsDani Grant Jenna Dawson

YorkSYNcHroNiZEDSWimcLuBProvincialchampionsAmy Williams and Syarra DeFreitas

SPEctrumNortHBAtoNcLuBProvincialchampionsTeija RomColthoff Natalie SeguinAmanda D’Attolico Leyla OzturkMadi Georgopoulos Bridget Lynagh

EvoLutioNGYmNASticScLuBAurorAProvincialchampionsJulian Farano Matthew DonovanKieran Heaslip Phillip CarsonChristopher Kent

kiDSSuPErGYmAurorAProvincialchampionsSarah MacPherson Jared JenicekLauren Michelberger Zoë Hipel

DuckSSWimmiNGcLuBProvincialchampionsShannon Meadway Hayden SpiersGeorge Zizakovic Thomas Nelander Tyler Da Ponte Brent Davison Andrew Pignatelli Maxwell JonesSydney Leblanc Phoebe RedfernHolly Biasi Sarah Bond Chloe Taylor Grace HarrisTori Rapp Soorna Choheili

BofC Chair Doug Legallais thanks Mayor Dawe National Champion Mary Haberer accepts AwardMC Jim Thomson, Mayor Geoff Dawe and Rod Black


The 15 & under Storm Typhoon girls team dominated the 73 team competition at the 2015 Beach

Provincials in August at Ashbridges Bay in Toronto.

Becky Tresham and her partner Becky Dorsey, who recently confirmed she will be joining the Storm 15U girls indoor team

this season earned a repeat gold win on the beach, defeating Storm teammate Teagan Chan and her part-ner Tynielle Swaby of the Scarborough Titans, who captured silver. Andie Therkildsen of Storm and her partner Danielle Gravina from Halton Hurricanes were part of the

team to earn a third-place finish, while the all-Storm team of Emily Teehan and Dana Roskic finished fourth.

This team is no stranger to success. Storm Typhoon, won indoor Provincial Championships as a team in Waterloo in April for the third-straight year, bringing

the same level of competition to the sand in the summer. They then finished second nationally in Calgary in mid-May.

Nine of the ten girls from last year’s team compete on the beach. Beach volleyball is a great way for the girls to stay in shape and keep their volleyball skills up over the summer, plus it gives them an opportunity to play with girls from other club teams.

The beach season began in May, with tournaments held each weekend at dif-ferent locations. Each weekend they play earns points towards each tournament ranking, taking their top three tourna-ment scores. The ‘all-Becky team” of Tresham and Dorsey lived up to their

number-one overall ranking by taking the Provincial title for the second year in a row. Becky and Becky have been training all summer to retain their title, The Becky’s have trained and competed together all season. They dominated the competition throughout the event, drop-ping only one set in Provincials, in the championship match.

Silver medalists; Chan and Swaby, played with a number of different part-ners over the summer including each other. Bronze medalists; Therkildsen and Gravina were partnering at Provincials for the first time. Teehan and Roskic, despite missing the med-als, can find pride in recuperation and perseverance. Teehan fought back from a severe ankle injury that occurred during the semi-finals at Nationals, missing three-quarters of the beach season. The two were only able to play three tournaments to-gether all season.

Storm Volleyball has always wanted to make its programs available to everyone, so we never charged for

REP tryouts. In the early years, every-body made a team because we just added more teams to accommodate everyone. As we grew, facilities and coaches became an issue, we didn’t have space to add more teams so we had to make tougher selections which meant cutting some athletes. Most organizations charge for their REP tryouts, we decided to ask for donations to the Aurora Food Bank. With continued growth and great success at both the provincial and national level our tryout numbers started to become unmanageable. We didn’t know how many people would show up! This year we decided to ask everyone to pre-register online so we could track the numbers in each age group. I checked

out other organizations to see what they were charging for tryouts, prices ranged from $25 to $50. We decided we would charge only $10 if they registered prior to a specific date, $15 after that date and $20 at the door if they showed up without registering. We advertised on our website that most of the tryout fees would go to All Kids Can Play and we had quite a few comments from people about how great it was that we were donating to this worthwhile program. We

were very excited to donate $3,500 to the All Kids Can Play program

and we will try to raise more next year.

15utYPHooNStormtHrouGHBEAcHProviNciALS /// ByLindatherkildsen,Headcoach,Stormtyphoon/// PhotoscourtesyofStormvolleyball

StormDoNAtEStoALLkiDScANPLAY!/// ByBruceStafford,Founder&President,Stormvolleyball/// PhotocourtesyofSportAurora

VOLLEYBALL – Storm



AURORA SPORT HALL OF FAME – 2015 Inductees

AurorA SportS HAll of fAme –

2015 InducteeS

aurOra SpOrTS HaLL Of faMe aNNOuNceS MedIa aWard

markHeese is recognized in the athlete category for his contribution to the sport of Volleyball. The Aurora resident was born 1969 in Toronto. During his 16 year Beach volleyball career, he has achieved many awards and medals in local, provincial, national and international Beach Volleyball events. Mark is a three time Olympian participating in the Sydney and Athens Games. He won a Bronze medal at the inaugural Beach Volleyball event at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. Mark won Canada’s first FIVB International World Tour Gold medal in Berlin in 1996. He was awarded the 2005 Most Inspirational Player Award as voted by his peers while on tour. In addition to being a commentator, speaker and motivator he is an active member of the Storm Volleyball organization as a coach and has made guest appearances with other teams.

AlanDean is recognized as a builder and contributor for his contribution to sport in particular, for his pioneering work spanning decades to establish Sports Associations for the Physically Disabled. Alan was born in England in 1939 and came to Aurora in 1965 and became a Canadian Citizen in 1970. He joined the Aurora Soccer Club in 1965. In 1966 he coached in the Aurora Minor Soccer system which was the forerun-ner of the Aurora Youth Soccer Club. Alan played soccer until he broke his leg while playing a friendly game in 1974 which resulted in Alan losing his leg to gangrene. Despite this set back he continued to be involved in sport athlete, coach, team manager, pioneer and advocate for sports for the physically disabled both locally and internationally receiving numerous medals and awards along the way. He was inducted into the Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons Hall of Fame in 2010. He is still active in sport and was elected as Director of Bowls Canada, the national governing body of lawn bowls in 2014.

Aurora resident and founder of Sinclair-Cockburn brokerage, kennethSinclair, a ten-times Canadian Singles Tennis Champion, is recognized as builder and contributor in the sport of Tennis. Kenneth was born in 1930 in Toronto. He began playing league tennis in 1958 but it was not until later years that he started participating in international events earning a few titles as a result. He built and founded the Timberlane Tennis and Country (now Timberline Athletic Club) in 1987. He was the co-founder of Tennis Canada’s National Tennis Centre which was built in 1976 at the York University campus while also acting as vice president of the Canadian Lawn Tennis Association. Kenneth chaired the Canadian Junior Nationals and 1985 Masters Games (Tennis) and founded and operated the All-Canadian Academy in London during in the 1980’s. Ken was elected to Canada’s Tennis Hall of Fame in 1996.

The Aurora Sports Hall of Fame

(ASHoF) is proud to announce a special award that will be presented on behalf of the Board of Governors at the 3rd Annual Induction Dinner

Celebration this November 4th. Lowellmcclenny will be the first

recipient of the newly created AurorA

SPortSHALLoFFAmEmEDiAAWArD. This award will be presented to someone who has made a major impact on the world of sport media during their lifetime at either the local or national levels.

Just about everyone connected to sports in this community would agree that Lowell has been an avid promoter and supporter of local sports through his longstanding tenure as host of Sportsbeat, the local television show carried by Aurora Cable internet. Sportsbeat was on the air for 26 years and showcased thousands of athletes,

coaches and sports personalities from Aurora or representing Aurora teams. In addition to this outstanding work, Mr. McClenny held the position as President of Aurora Minor hockey, coached various sports team and volun-teered for the AMHA telecasts in 1980.

Mr. McClenny will be part of the 2015 class announced in June that includes Inductees: Alan dean (Builder/Contributor: Sports for the Physically Disabled), Kenneth sinclair (Builder/Contributor: Tennis) and mark heese (Athlete: Volleyball).

The 2015 slate will be inducted into the Aurora Sports Hall of Fame on Wednesday November 4th. Please join in the celebration – tickets can be bought online – aurorashof.ca – or through [email protected]


COMMUNITY – 52 Pick Me Up

GeT IN THe GaMe!

52 Pick Me Up is a community-based sports heritage project celebrating the year of Sport in Aurora. If you

have attended special events organized by the Town of Aurora over the past couple months you are likely familiar with the set of collectable playing cards being released into the community.

Through a collaborative effort between The Aurora Heritage Authority, Aurora Museum & Archives, Aurora Sports Hall of Fame, Boulevard Design and Sport Aurora a new card is released weekly through an entire calendar year. We invite you to capture the action as the legacy of sport in Aurora comes alive through a deck of playing cards showcasing individuals, teams, locations, and artifacts

all connected to how sport has played out in Aurora. Released cards include Bruce Stafford*, Jan Jones, and Aurora’s own Wildman Bear Wrestler Dave McKigney. On deck are Brian Stemmle*, Hap Holmes*, Ducks Swimming and the Newmarket Old Guys Hockey League.

To learn more about the project and the distribution point for each card, be sure to check in weekly with The Auroran, the Community Focus site livinginaurora.com and our project website 52pickmeup.com. Missing a card or two? Visit the exhibition A Legacy of Sport on view at the Aurora Museum & Archives to see what has been released pick up what you missed. * Aurora Sports Hall of Fame Honoured Members

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!AuroraSportsHallofFame2015inductionDinner

The Aurora Sports Hall of Fame (ASHoF) annual Induction Celebration will take place on Wednesday November 4th at the iconic St. Andrews College.

The annually dinner celebrates excellence in sports in Aurora by Athletes, Coaches and/or Builder/Contributors and is now in its third year.

New this year will be a “Fantasy Sports Auction”. www.aurorashof.ca

Tickets on sale now on-line aurora.ca or through [email protected]

mEDiAcoNtAct:Mark LaVigne, ASHOF Public Relations [email protected] W (905)-841-2017 C (416)-884-2018

PuBLiccoNtAct:Nancy Black, ASHOF Project [email protected] C (647)-632-6911


PICK A CARD, ANY CARD – COLLECT THEM ALL!


RUGBY – Aurora Barbarians R.F.C.

\\\StoryandPhotoscourtesyofJohnreich,AuroraBarbariansrugbyFootballclub

AurorA BArBAriAns u18 Women Are prOvINcIaL cHaMpIONS!

The strength of Aurora’s young women’s rugby program was on display at this year’s provincial championships. Rugby Ontario’s annual tournament for U-18 women

featured regional champions from across the province and was held at Fletcher’s Fields at the end of August.

The Barbarian junior women had struggled at times under new coach Dr. Nick Daniels sporting a 4-2 record in the Central Division of the 12 team Toronto District League finishing second in the pool to undefeated Oshawa Vikings but qualified for the playoffs as the 7th seed in the District tournament.

The Aurora girls rallied in both the first round and semi-final games to win in overtime versus the number two seed Toronto Balmy Beach and fighting to a thrilling 14-10 victory over the number one seed Oshawa. The District final pitted the Barbarians against rival club Oakville Crusaders. The Crusaders ranked three were previously undefeated but came up on the short end of a 19-10 score.

Coach Daniels praised his players coming out of the tournament as under-dog winners saying, “A fantastic group of girls that showed tremendous character to win three games in a row against the odds”.

The unlikely winners went on the repre-sent the Toronto League in the Provincial tournament that also comprised teams from London representing Southwestern Ontario, Hamilton from the Niagara Region and Ottawa from Eastern Ontario. But the dominance of the surging Barbarians surprised no one in the Cup competition as Aurora’s young women overwhelmed London 35-5 in the playoff game and whitewashed Hamilton 42-7 in the final. The proud Coach made his feeling know after that success saying “We knew after we won the Toronto Regionals that we would have a good shot at winning it all. The girls gelled and came together and peaked at the right time.”

The Aurora Barbarians are the reigning Provincial Champions in both the Senior Women’s and U-18 Women’s competitions.

Season play commences in May for the senior women while the junior women’s competition starts in June. Coach Daniels adds, “we are looking to build on our success next year and welcome new players to join us.”


seneca

WORK HARD, plAy hArd, WiNBiG!

///ByLenGurr,Headcoach,SAcvarsityFootballSaints///PhotocourtesyofSt.Andrew’scollege

VARSITY FOOTBALL – St. Andrew’s College

The 2015 St. Andrew’s College Varsity Football Saints have dedicated themselves to a new

motto this year – commit to greatness. Rather than focus on one specific

goal, all players are expected to put forth maximum effort in the classroom, on the practice field, and in the weight room. We believe that if players commit to being great each day, success in everything they do will be a byproduct.

The annual goal of our football program is to maintain the standards of excellence set by the previous players who have worn our uniforms proudly.

The Saints are led by three captains, all of whom have two more years at St. Andrew’s. Quarterback Ben Schmidt, linebacker/fullback Walter Karabin, and offensive lineman Gregor MacKellar lead the way as captains. For the team to fulfill its potential, however, each player in the locker room needs to develop into a leader.

Joining Schmidt and Karabin on offensive is tight-end Andrew Biddell, receiver Will Merkel, and phenom rookie running back Adre Simmonds. All are being counted on for explosive plays. The offensive line, long a staple of our football success, should be a dominant force. MacKellar is joined by incomers George Hutchings and Lucas Ferreira, and returning players Cayne Lander and

Douglas Chen-Young, giving the Saints a mobile and physical unit in the trenches.

Defensively, Karabin is joined by line-backers Nick Grossi and Hamza Kabir, an instinctive and agile linebacker core capable of making plays against the run and pass. Cornerback Josh Carter and safety Jacob Edwards will lead a nimble secondary, while up front we hope for an immediate contribution from tough rookie defensive end Luke Wyatt.

With a perfect 2-0 start to the season following victories over nationally ranked opponents St. Joan of Arc (Barrie) and

Huron Heights (Newmarket), the team demonstrated early on their commitment to their sport, their teammates, and their new motto.

St. Andrew’s plays in the Conference of Independent Schools Athletic Association. In the past four seasons, Saints Varsity Football has captured two CISAA championship titles. We invite you to watch a game on our home field at the Yuill Family Athletic Complex.

For a complete schedule, visit www.sac.on.ca/athletics.

Running back Adre Simmonds, 15, is a dominant force on this year’s team.


ExPEriENtiALExcurSioNSBuiLDResilienceANDstRong chaRacteR\\\ ByPickeringcollege\\\ PhotoscourtesyofHorizonx.caandPickeringcollege

Pickering College’s Global Leadership Program focuses on developing leadership skills and potential in each student from a global perspective. It ensures that

students are equipped to understand and address complex global issues through a carefully-planned curriculum, co-curricular opportunities, community service, authentic experiential learning opportunities, educational partnerships and cross-disciplinary independent projects.

Students are offered a wide range of opportunities that align with the ten demonstrations of Global Leadership where they learn to Experience, Lead and Act. One of the expectations under Experience is:

ChAllenge yourself through

An experientiAl exCursion or

A Commitment thAt demAnds

physiCAl strength, resilienCe

And strong ChArACter.


ATHLETICS – Pickering College

In Grade 9, students complete the “Adventurous Journey” component of the Duke of Edinburgh Award (Bronze Level) during the annual leadership trip to Camp Tawingo. At the camp, students participate in activities such as treetop trekking which helps them to confront their fears. In addition, they learn valuable skills including hiking, paddling a canoe and building a fire. The experience at Tawingo culminates in an overnight camping trip on an island some distance away that can only be reached by canoe. For some, especially the school’s international boarding students, it is their first time camping and travelling by canoe.

In Grade 11, students in physical education travel to Quebec to challenge themselves white-water rafting. This trip helps students to build confidence by taking them out of their comfort zones and by putting them in a new situation. This experience also teaches them to communicate effectively with their peers, as they navigate their rafts down the rapids. White-water rafting also challenges students physically as it requires them to work together paddling for two days.

“Every year, students come back from the trip saying that they had the time of their lives, and this year was no exception,” says Graham Birt, Department Head, Health and Physical Education. “As they faced the challenges of navigating the Ottawa River, students got the chance to hone their leadership skills and demonstrate resilience. These skills were further put to the test when some students were asked to be the guides for their rafts on the second day. Many were hesitant to take on such a large responsibility but through perseverance and group work, they all succeeded.”

Julia Hunt, Pickering College’s Director of Global Leadership says experiences like Tawingo and white-water rafting really challenge the students to push their limits, take risks and demonstrate resilience. “These are skills that will transfer to any new context, and serve our students well when they experience obstacles and need to call on internal reserves to persevere,” she says.

For further information about Pickering College, please visit their website at www.pickeringcollege.on.ca



LAWN BOWLING – Aurora Lawn Bowling Club

The outdoor season is fast coming to an end at the Aurora Lawn Bowling Club. Some of the club’s

members participated in two different types of competition this summer.

The ALBC belongs to the Ontario Lawn Bowling Association-District 11 and participates in District Playdowns of the Ontario Lawn Bowling Association. Winning a District allows you to represent the District at the Ontario Championships.

In the District competition, Cathy Sullivan played in the Women’s Single Competition, Nick Cary and

John Headley played in the Men’s Pairs Competition and John Headley and Raymond Noble played in the Men’s Single Competition.

otherALBcplayersalsocompetedintheregional55+Games:• Jeff Walker, Kathy Shropshire, and

Raymond Noble competed in the Mixed Triples Competition and won a Gold Medal

• Cathy Sullivan and Raymond Noble competed in the Mixed Pairs competition and won a Bronze Medal

The ALBC also hosted a friendly tournament with the Richmond Hill Lawn

Bowling Club and there were many positive remarks about our facility and we have the Town of Aurora to thank for that.

We will be back in May for another great season!

LAWNBoWLiNGcomPLEtESBuSYSEASoN\\\ByraymondNoble

AURO

RA

LAWN BOWLING

CLU

B

est. 1914

TENNIS – Aurora Community Tennis Club

\\\ByBrentmackinnon,President,Auroracommunitytennisclub

aurOra cOMMuNITy TeNNIS cLub evOLveS TO a SpOrT deSTINaTION ceNTer

The ACTC has a mission to promote affordable community tennis to all ages and abilities. Accordingly,

adult recreational evening house leagues have been offered. More competitive players have enjoyed playing in our inter club leagues run in evenings and morn-ings. Youth have rallied to our summer junior programs run through afternoons in July and August.

But we were delinquent in offering a program to the fastest growing profile: Seniors!

This past year we focused on actualizing our Mission by engaging our older demographic (seniors) in the sport of Pickleball. Our underlying belief was that when people age they often

lose their sense of athletic competence and their feeling of belonging to the community. Our outdoor Pickleball program would give them a chance to continue playing a racquet sport, closely related to tennis in a supportive ACTC tennis community environment.

Over the past six months we learned that Pickleball not only serves seniors at the periphery of the community and disconnected from social recreational activities, it also serves our tennis membership. We recognized that at some point in time, each of us will feel that tennis has becomes too difficult to continue and we must put our racquets away. Now with having a Pickleball program at ACTC, we have a crossover sport that opens up new opportunities for continuing in a racquet playing activity and engaging socially with peers.

Our Pickleball program succeeded well beyond our goals this past year. We had fifty seven people join the program. Opening and year end tournaments were held. A Volunteer Program Committee was recruited to guide the development of the ACTC Pickleball Program.

What we are most excited about is the development of ambitious plans

to host a yearly sanctioned tournament inviting players from around the province to Aurora. We would utilize six Pickleball courts set up at McMahon and partner with local indoor venues so that we have a backup in case of inclement weather.

As McMahon Park has only three tennis courts, it is unsuitable for a sanctioned tennis event. But it can provide six courts. ASportDestination!

Seniors have congregated and are making plans to host such an event in the summer 2016 season. ACTC is the host club and welcomes and needs volunteers to administer this event. Planning will go on over the coming months.

Establishing a crossover racquet sport within a community tennis club is challenging. We learned that expanding our club to engage a different but closely related group of racquet players benefits everyone. In fact, many members of ACTC have come to realize that pickleball and tennis players are all on a continuum of ability and health. We are not two separate groups but one group that takes great pleasure in their respective game and revels in the friendships that form amongst members.

Going Global

Now accepting applications for September 2016

Pickering College’s Global Leadership Program teaches students skills that are collaborative,

innovative and creative – encouraging them to consider the world from different

perspectives and to think critically about our global context.

All students – from JK to Grade 12 – are immersed in a program that prepares students

for university while also encouraging them to make a difference in the world as ethical,

compassionate and values-based decision-makers.

BOOK YOUR PERSONAL TOUR, TODAY!To learn more about the Pickering College experience, please contact our

Admission Office [email protected] or 905.895.1700 ext. 259

or toll-free at 1.877.895.1700 ext.259.

Independent Co-educational Day and Boarding Schoolsince 1842 | JK to University Preparatory

16945 Bayview Avenue, Newmarket, ON, CanadaVisit us at www.pickeringcollege.on.ca

LEARNING FOR LIFE. CREATING THE FUTURE.

When he opens the door to St. Andrew’s College, he opens his mind to a world of possibilities. Since 1899 we have provided enriched academics,unparalleled athletics, and dynamic arts programs resulting in strong, independent and intelligent young men.

Five minutes could change his next 50 years. Check out our 5-minute video at www.sac.on.ca/video.

Where extraordinary boysbecome exceptional men.

Your son. Our mission.

www.sac.on.ca905.727.3178 [email protected] boarding and day school for boys grades 5-12.

Currently offering an enrolment incentive of $5,000 forgrades 5 & 6 and $2.3 million annually in scholarshipand bursary assistance.

Experience SAC Day: Wednesday, October 21 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Open House: Tuesday, October 27 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

sport in aurora - vol. 5 issue 4

Documents