11 Feb Community Spotlight: Parkwoods 10th Annual Winter Classic
The North York Hockey League is home to many hockey communities who are all committed to same goal and that is bringing the best youth hockey experience possible to our players. Today, we are shining the spotlight on the Parkwoods Hockey Community who recently celebrated one of their biggest community events.
The Parkwoods 10th Annual Winter Classic kicked off this past Sunday, February 6th for the Parkwoods Hockey League community. This outdoor hockey event provides a chance for all of the Parkwoods House League players to play a season game on an outdoor rink. Distinct from the league’s regular season games which are played indoors, the full-day event is promoted as a return to the sport’s outdoor roots and meant to evoke memories of playing pond hockey. The event was initiated by former Parkwoods President, Brad Brinton, and his executive team in 2011. Since it’s inaugural debut in 2011, the Winter Classic has only grown in popularity, becoming an annual tradition for the Parkwoods Hockey League. It is considered to be one of the league’s premier events for both the players and parents.
In addition to the great hockey that was played all day, players and parents alike could enjoy coffee, hot chocolate and hot food being served throughout the event. There was even event t-shirts for all of the players and volunteers to wear and show their Parkwoods spirit. The event has also become a great opportunity for Parkwoods Select teams to fundraise with bake sales and other initiatives. It’s thanks to the dedication and hard work of many volunteers who help make this amazing event even possible.
The event hit a stroke of luck this year with pandemic restrictions being lifted just in time for the event to proceed and the bitter cold had broken early that morning. It was still a chilly start for the young U7 players, who played the first game at 8am, but the fun and hot chocolate were sure to keep them warm! It was a full day of games for all age divisions. The night was capped off by the U18 teams playing under the rink lights and wrapped up the 9th and final game just after 8pm, closing a fun-filled day for our the whole Parkwoods hockey community.
Be sure to check out more photo’s from the event on Instagram at @ParkwoodsHockey
You can also head over to their website at www.parkswoodshockeyleague.com to learn more about Parkwoods Hockey and any future events!