Kincardine Regional Silver Stick runs all week, with finals on Friday

The 30th annual Kincardine Regional Silver Stick tournament for Novice, Peewee and Bantam players, got under way Tuesday morning and continues through to the finals on Friday.

With more than 600 players on almost 50 teams, the spectators are in for a treat as they enjoy some high-calibre, competitive hockey at the Davidson Centre in Kincardine, the Tiverton Sports Centre and the Ripley-Huron Community Centre.

The opening ceremonies were held Tuesday evening, just prior to the Bantam game between Kincardine and Mitchell, at the Davidson Centre.

The Kincardine Scottish Pipe Band led the dignitaries to the ice surface, and Kincardine convener Ray Luinstra welcomed everyone. He then introduced the dignitaries: Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson, Kincardine mayor Anne Eadie, Umar Afzaal of the Society of Energy Professionals, and tournament director Tia Trudeau.

Eadie said the Silver Stick is a wonderful event in Kincardine, and that 30 years of it is worthy of celebration.

"It is my privilege to bring greetings from the Municipality of Kincardine and to welcome each and every hockey player, coach, trainer, and all your family and friends," she said. "Thirty years as a volunteer organization is amazing. It takes a lot of volunteers to put this together. And it takes thousands of volunteers working together to make this such a great community.

"If you have any spare time while you're here, we have a walking track at the Davidson Centre, as well as wonderful shops downtown and lots of great restaurants. Thanks to Tia Trudeau and her committee for putting on this great event.

"And to the players, sometimes the desire to win takes over, but the important part is that you do your very best. Each of you is a winner if you play to the best of your ability and show good sportsmanship."

Thompson also thanked all the volunteers and offered special thanks to the parents for supporting these young hockey players.

"Congratulations to Tia and her volunteers, and to the sponsors who support this tournament," she said. "There are 47 teams and 600-plus players. Enjoy some great hockey and good sportsmanship."

The Ecole Elgin Market Public School choir sang the national anthem in French, and then Umar Afzaal did the ceremonial puck-drop to begin the game.

The Kincardine Novice Kinucks have notched one win and one loss so far, while the Bantams have posted two wins. The tournament continues Wednesday and Thursday, with semi-finals Thursday afternoon and evening, and the finals Friday at the Davidson Centre. The Novice games are in Ripley, while the Peewees are playing in Tiverton.

For scheduling details and scores, check the Kincardine Silver Stick website at: silverstick.org/tournaments/2931/schedule