newsFLASH Archives
newsFLASHES!
2008:
Jan .::. Feb .::. Mar .::. Apr .::. Jul .::. Sep .::. Oct .::. Nov
- Welcome to a new year of sledge hockey, wheelchair basketball, boccia, and multi-sports.
- Multi-sports is geared for those who are looking for fun games and social interaction in a gym setting. Contact Kathy Ludwig for more information.
- The sledge hockey schedule will be out shortly as Ken works with the rest of the teams to create a schedule. o Wednesday night ice has seen about 20 athletes each week. All registered sledge hockey players are invited to come out. The cost is $5 for two hours of ice.
- Wheelchair basketball has started its house league schedule with four teams. If you are interested in joining a team there is still time. If you cannot commit to a team but would like to sign up as a substitute please contact Kathy Ludwig at basketball@cruisers-sports.com. This is a great way to cross train!
- Welcome to all our new athletes. The Cruisers extend a warm welcome and wish you success, fun and friendship with the Cruisers!
- Please join me in welcoming Anam Ahmed, Gee Arya, Jacob Calvert, Chantelle Low (returning), Connor McGowan, Justin Reesor, Amanda Rudnicki (returning), Stephanie Sarvis, Tamara Steeves, Steven Stoddart, Brock Richardson (returning), Mark Rodgers, Samuel Hooper, Billy Makarewicz & Steven Rogers!
- This Saturday, October 4th at 7pm on CTV, the documentary called SLEDHEAD is being aired. For the past year a documentary film crew followed Team Canada’s National Sledge Hockey team through selection camp to the World Championships to showcase the sport and to tell the personal stories of a Canadian team that is determined to win. Greg Westlake, a previous Cruiser is highlighted in the documentary. You can also see more about the documentary at www.sledheadmovie.com.
- As a reminder, you can receive $50 rebate of your registration fees if you receive a $500 sponsorship or if you contribute to our fundraising activities such as volunteering on the Golf Committee, Awards Gala committee or by participating at 2 Bingo sessions. We are pleased to advise we have three Bingo teams. Having three teams mean each team will run a bingo once every six weeks. A fourth team would mean each team would run a Bingo session once every two months. Please contact me if you would like to join a team. I will send out a schedule next week with the teams and dates assigned. We have a Bingo this week. Please let me know if you can attend. If you are new to Bingo there is a bunch of us who can assist in training you. It is held at the International Centre on the southeast corner of Airport Rd and Derry. We meet at 5:30pm and it is over by 9:00pm, however, most of the jobs are done by 7:45pm.
- A sponsorship package will be available soon to assist you with gaining a sponsor or two!
- Linda Beacham was featured on radio station 95.3 (A country station) during their ‘An Incredible Amazing Person’ feature. Linda was recognized for dedication to helping others and for all her volunteer work. Being selected, Linda gets to select a charity for a donation by the radio station. Linda selected the CRUISERS! Thank you Linda and congratulations for a very well deserved nomination!
Go Cruisers!
- If you have not heard yet, our very own, Kyle Pettey, won a BRONZE MEDAL at the Beijing Paralympic games in the shot put! Kyle threw a personal best 11.08 metres. His throw was also the best of his class and set a Canadian record in the F34 class! Way to go, Kyle!
- Here is a story The Brampton Guardian published Sunday on the Cruisers to kick off our registration week.
Cruisers ready to roll
The Brampton Guardian
Friday September 12 2008
By Frank Juzenas- BRAMPTON - For more than 20 years the Cruisers Sports Club for the Physically Disabled has been providing sports opportunities for those who might not otherwise have them. Whether they have spinal bifida, CP, MS, are visually impaired or missing limbs and of whatever age the club welcomes those who want to participate. With registration coming up for its upcoming season this week there will be spots for more of them this coming season. With close to 60 members ranging in age from six to 50's (both male and female) and four sports offered the Cruisers is the largest club providing sports for the physically disabled in the province. The majority of members are from Brampton but there are also a number from Mississauga, Halton, with some coming as far away as Erin and Unionville. Sledge hockey is the most popular sport with 90 per cent of the registered athletes playing either recreationally or competitively. But also offered are wheelchair basketball, track and field and boccia. This year the club has merged with the Brampton Blazers who ran a wheelchair basketball program. Athletes can participate in any and all sports and many do take part in multiple sports."This gives me a chance to play a team sport,'' said Karl Ludwig 19 who has spina bifida and is a star in sledge hockey, so good that last weekend he was invited to try out for Canada's national team in Milton. While he did not make the final cut this time, he is hoping to play for Canada down the road. Other Cruisers athletes have been given the chance to compete internationally. Included is Josh Giles, 17, also with spina bifida, who has been named to Canada's wheelchair junior basketball team selected to go to France for the world championships next year. Two other Cruisers athletes, who like Ludwig and Giles are Brampton residents, are currently in Beijing at the Paralympics, the multi-sport event for the physically disabled held every four years at the venue for the Olympics.Kyle Pettey is competing in track and field in discus and javelin while Brock Richardson is in boccia. Seeing his clubmates go on to that level gives athletes like Michael Careri, a 21-year old who competes in hockey and track and field the incentive to also try to make the Paralympics in the future. The Cruisers program can be expensive. For instance a brand-new sled used in hockey, costs $700 each while a wheelchair for basketball is about $5,000. The club has a supply of equipment and club president Tony Gale said fund-raising activities are important to keep the cost reasonable for each member. Among the initiatives was a golf tournament held last week at Banty's Roost with more than 80 players taking part. Other activities including a pledge-a-sled event and bingos. Despite the perception of outsiders that disabled sports might not have much intensity that is not the case. Ludwig said when the national team sledge tryouts were held spectators commented on how physical the play was. His mother Kathy Ludwig said the players do take things seriously."They are a real team, this is a real sport,'' she said. Ken Hall, who coaches sledge hockey, said the three teams that the club has are all very competitive."We treat them just like we would any other athlete,'' he said. That means if an athlete doesn't go hard down the ice they could find themselves benched. All the coaches are certified. But there is also the room for those athletes who prefer playing a sport at a recreational level. Giles said one of the aspects he enjoys is the social side of meeting other people. He like many of the other older athletes helps out by offering advice to some of the youngsters and has an important lesson he wants them to get."Just have fun,'' said Giles. The cost of joining the club for a year depends on what sports and how many the athlete wishes to take part in. There are three registration dates next week, on Monday at Stanley Mills Public School, 286 Sunny Meadow Blvd., Tuesday at Westervelts Corners, 20 Brickyard Way and Wednesday at Earnscliffe Arena, 44 Eastborne Dr., at 6 p.m. each day and Saturday at 10 a.m. at Mississauga Iceland Arena, 705 Matheson Blvd. E. For more information on the club contact Tony Gale at 905-866-5619.
- As mentioned in the Brampton Guardian story the Cruisers held their 9th Annual Charity Golf Tournament last week. The tournament had 86 golfers attend and helped raise over $10,000 for the Cruisers! Thanks to Ken Hall for organizing the tournament once again! The Cruisers would like to thank the Golf Committee who put this event together…Ken Hall, Cindy Pettibone, Mary Bennett, Scott Legassie, Anne Marie Burry (Mary’s sister), Linda Beacham and Barb Protomanni. We would also like to thank Angie Armstrong and the Data Group of Companies for the printing for this event. Attached is the program each attendee of the golf tournament received on behalf of the Data Group.
- The Cruisers would also like to thank Angie and the Data Group of Companies for a generous donation of $5,000 to the Cruisers! The Data Group of Companies host an annual golf tournament for charitable organizations. This year, the Cruisers were added to the recipients of this tournament! THANK YOU , ANGIE!
- Karl Ludwig, Americo Morais, and Jordan Cullum were invited to attend the TEAM CANADA Sledge Hockey Selection Camp in Milton on the September 5th weekend. Although, not selected for the team they have done us proud by being invited to this extremely competitive camp.
- As you know, Wheelchair Basketball is now under the Cruiser umbrella of sports. If you would like to come out and try the sport the Cruisers meet every Monday at Westervelts School in Brampton on Brickyard Way every Wednesday at 6:00pm. For more information contact Kathy Ludwig at basketball@cruisers-sports.com.
- We are excited to have Boccia back under the Cruiser name. Each Tuesday, Cruisers have the opportunity to try out Boccia as a recreational sport at Stanley Mills school on Sunny Meadow Dr in Brampton at 6:00pm. For more information contact Dianne Christophe at trackandfield@cruisers.com.
- A reminder that we now have 2 hours of ice for sledge hockey each Wednesday at Earnscliffe Recreation Centre at 44 Eastbourne Dr in Brampton at 6:45pm. This ice time will be available for all Cruisers registered for sledge hockey. The session will cost $5 per session and will entail drills and scrimmage.
- To clarify....Basketball is every Monday, Boccia is Tuesday (recreational) & Friday (competitive), Hockey is Wednesday and Saturday.
GO CRUISERS GO!
Friday, September 5, 2008 -
- We are gearing up for the new season! Sledge hockey, boccia, and wheelchair basketball are all around the corner! All three of these sports will be starting the week of September 15th! Please read the attached letter and fill out the required registration forms. You can register at basketball, boccia or sledge hockey but we do encourage you to register before the Saturday if you are attending one of the other sessions.
- The Paralympics started on Saturday and the Cruisers are thrilled that two of our athletes are competing in Beijing! Brock Richardson is competing in Boccia and Kyle Pettey is competing in Discuss and Shotput.
- Brock competes individually in the BC1 category. He played three games yesterday coming away with a victory against as player from Japan. Brock plays again at 9:00 tonight (our time0 against a competitor from Argentina. Brock also plays on the BC1-2 mixed team. The first team Canada game is against Great Britain on Tuesday at 10:30pm (our time) and then they play Argentina Wednesday at 1:30am our time.
- Kyle competes in the F33/34/52 class and competes in Discuss Monday morning at 5am our time. He competes in Shot put Friday morning at 5am our time.
- You can track their results by going to www.ccpsa.ca. You can also watch at http://www.youtube.com/ParalympicSportTV or at www.paralympicsport.tv.
- Tuesday is our Golf Tournament.
Go Cruisers!
- This past weekend a number of Cruiser athletes participated in the Ontario Para-Athletics Championships and Boiling Point track meet. This was a very successful meet for Cruiser athletes where many of our track & field athletes set personal best times. Martha Sandoval broke a Canadian Record in the discus with a throw of 9.53m. Martha also set a record in the shot put the previous weekend at the Canadian Nationals. Kyle Pettey beat his previous discus Canadian record three times, and came within a few centimeters of breaking his shot put record. Renee continued along her path to stardom with her performances in both the shot put and discus. Isaiah Christophe won all his events in the junior division of wheelchair racing.
- The Cruisers would like to say GOOD LUCK to our Beijing bound athletes Brock Richardson for Boccia and Kyle Pettey for field. You have made us very proud!
- The City of Newmarket has ice time available on Friday nights at 7pm to 9pm and Saturday nights from 6pm to 8pm dedicated to sledge hockey. This is a shinny style of hockey which means anyone can attend. The cost is $4.
- Ken Hall was named Ontario’s Coach of the Month for the month of June by the Coaches Association of Ontario. You can read about Ken and his involvement with the Cruisers at www.coachesontario.ca. Congratulations, Ken!
- The Cruisers 9th Annual Charity Golf Tournament takes place Tuesday September 9th at Banty’s Roost in Caledon. This is a fun tournament with all the net proceeds going to the Cruisers. We are looking for sponsors and golfers. You can help by registering a foursome, obtaining a hole sponsorship or obtaining items for the silent auction. Please go to our website www.cruisers-sports.com to find the registration forms and more information. You can also contact Ken at golftournament@cruisers-sports.com.
- Our first Awards Gala was a success as we raised around $16,000. We will hold the gala again next year and will make it an even better event. Thanks to our Gala committee of Cindy Pettibone, Anna Gale, Barb Protomanni, Deb Foesell, Deb Wakelin, Linda Beacham, Kathy Ludwig, Scott Legassie, Wendy Kujawa, Josie Gies and Sandy Smeenk.
- If you’d like to view the sledge hockey video that we showed at the gala you can view it on you tube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vtQhTCAX-k
Go Cruisers!
- On March 15th the Junior Cruisers travelled to Buffalo to play the East Division Championship. They played a dominant game after allowing Buffalo to score the first goal of the game 3 minutes in. The Cruisers responded 30 seconds later and never looked back and came away with a 8-1 victory. Goals were scored by Anthony Gale (4), Isaiah Christophe (3), and Robbie Armstrong. Assists went to Anthony, Robbie, and Sam Ciafaloni.
- This past Saturday the Juniors travelled to Aylmer to meet Sarnia for the OSHA Junior Championship. In a very exciting game the Cruisers won 6-3! Anthony Gale scored 4 goals, Robbie Armstrong and Sam Ciafaloni scored one each. Assists went to Anthony and Kennedy Chisamore-Johnston. Sarnia pulled their goalie with 2 minutes left and the score 5-3 but Austin Smeenk played a great game in stopping 23 shots, most of which were in the first two periods when the score was close. Congratulations to our Junior team, Ontario Sledge Hockey Association Champions!
- After the Championship game it was announced that Anthony Protomanni would be taking on the role of Captain of the Junior team starting next season. Isaiah Christophe will be an assistant captain along with Renee Foessel. Anthony Gale and Nathan Gerrard will be moving up to Intermediate next year
- Over the Easter long weekend a number of Cruisers travelled to Edmonton as part of Ontario Sledge Hockey Association’s Under 24 team. The event was organized as a three team tournament with Alberta’s U24 and USA’s U24 team. With USA pulling out prior to the start of the tournament it ended up being an exhibition series. The OSHA team played Team Alberta twice and played 3 senior teams from Edmonton, Battle River and Red Deer. The OSHA team played very well winning 4 of 5 games, losing one by a score of 1-0. Congratulations to Jordan Cullum, Karl Ludwig, Josh Giles, Anthony Gale, Michael Careri, Phillip Kujawa and Isaiah Christophe who represented the Cruisers very well on the team. Americo Morais also attended as a player/coach. Ken Cullum is the team manager.
- We have two Bingo sessions coming up in April at the International Centre. We are still looking for more volunteers to help run these sessions. Please let me know if you would like to come out this Sunday at 5:45pm or Sunday April 20th at 5:45pm. We have a core group of people who have volunteered for the last two sessions that will be able to train you. It is easy and it raises funds for the club!
- The Awards Gala is 2 months away. I need to know the following:
- Will you be attending?
- How many in your party?
- Do you need additional tickets?
- Please advise who you sent your Sponsorship Package to and if you have received a response.
- The Cruisers Annual General Meeting will be coming up in the next few weeks. Details on the date and location will be out to you shortly. There are a number of positions on the Board of Directors that are up for election. Nomination forms will be sent out shortly. Positions that will be elected are the following: Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Director of Sledge Hockey and a Director at Large.
Go Cruisers!
- On February 23rd the All Blacks played a two game series against Elmvale and came up short. The two losses have knocked them out of the playoffs.
- The Juniors started their second round of the playoffs where they were to face both Buffalo junior teams. On February 23rd the Buffalo ‘B’ team travelled to our home arena. It was important to score as many goals as possible resulting in a 9-5 shootout win. Goal scorers were Anthony Gale (5), Isaiah Christophe (2), Sam Ciafaloni and Olivia Smeenk. Assists went to Anthony (3), Michaela Rye (2), Jake Delaney (2), Isaiah, Johnathan Gies, Kennedy Chisamore-Johnston, Robbie Armstrong, Renne Foessel, and Austin Smeenk.
- On March 1st the Juniors travelled to Buffalo to face the ‘B’ team. The Cruisers came up short in a 6-3 game. Goal scorers were Sam Ciafaloni, Anthony Gale and Isaiah Christosphe. Assists went to Isaiah and Robbie Armstrong. However, as a result of a successful protest of this game, the Juniors will move on to the East finals in Buffalo this coming weekend to play Buffalo ‘B’ once again.
- The Silver Streaks lost 6-0 to Whitby on March 1st. They play this coming weekend in Hamilton.
- We are thrilled to officially announce the Cruisers will hold its First Annual Awards Gala on May 31st! This will be a great event where we will have the opportunity to recognize our award winners as well as recognize our sponsors. We will have a live band, DJ and entertainment throughout. Please start selling your tickets early so your friends and family don’t miss out! Most of you received a package on the weekend with tickets and sponsorship packages. Please contact Cindy Pettibone or Tony Gale with any questions.
- On Sunday the Cruisers ran our first Bingo at the International Centre. Thank you to Deb Wakelin, Barb Protomanni, Kathy Ludwig, Linda Beacham, Chris Gee, Jenna Gee, Debbie Foessel, Cindy Pettibone, and Anna Gale. Running Bingos could be very lucrative to the club but it will require more volunteers. We will run a bingo every second Sunday. Please let me know if you can help. I’d also like to thank Steve Surman, Laura Surman, Ken Hall, Mary Bennett who have also come out to train and have volunteered to help out in future sessions.
- A friend of Kathy Ludwig’s is going to Trinidad and another friend to Kenya. Both people are going to work in clinics for children with special needs. They have asked us for our help. There has been a huge increase in the children born with Spina Bifida in these countries. They are in desperate need of leg braces that will be refitted, especially small ones. They also desperately need wheelchair seat cushions, wheelchairs, canes, walkers, bath seats, etc, etc. There are children with other disabilities in these countries as well that could use help with any items not being used. If you have anything you would like to donate, please contact Kathy Ludwig at blazerskl@hotmail.com or Linda Beacham at armboocelot@hotmail.com.
- Our own Anthony Protomanni has been awarded with an Ontario Junior Citizens of the Year Award! This article was published on Yorkregion.com…Congratulations, Anthony!!
http://www.yorkregion.com/article/69895
http://www.northpeel.com/brampton/sports/article/44389
Go Cruisers Go!
- The Toronto West team (made up entirely of Cruisers) won the Ontario Paralympic Winter Championships last weekend in Collingwood!
- The team was made up of the following players:
- Americo Morais
- Bret Wills
- Cameron Jenkins
- Curtis Thom
- David Ali
- Gord Bollert
- James Hughes
- Jordam Cullum
- Josh Giles
- Kevin Duchane
- Karl Ludwig
- Michael Careri
- Peter Wakelin
- Phillip Kujawa
- Robbie Carmichael
- Ryan Bennett
- The team played a round robin in a pool of regional teams and went undefeated against Western Ontario (6-2), Toronto East (5-1) and Northern Ontario (3-0). A semi-final game was played against Eastern Ontario which they won 6-3 to move on to the final to play against Western Ontario once again. (Niagara was the sixth team in the tournament). The team earned the GOLD medal in a 5-0 shutout in which Cameron Jenkins preserved his shutout with a stop on a 2 man breakaway in the final minute!
- Curtis Thom led the way for the Toronto West team with 11 goals and 8 assists over the 5 games. Curtis was the highest scorer in the tournament! Jordan Cullum was just one point behind with 6 goals and 12 assists for 18 points finishing second in tournament scoring. Michael Careri had 3 goals and 6 assists for 9 points and finished 5th in the tournament. Karl Ludwig had the 8th highest points with 4 goals and 3 assists. Phillip Kujawa and Americo Morais rounded out the top 10 with 5 points each. Phillip with 1 goal and 4 assist and Americo with 5 assists. Peter Wakelin had two assists and James Hughes had an assist. Cameron came away with the best goaltender stats with a 5-0 record, 2 shutouts and a 1.20 Goals Against Average.
- Congratulations go out to coaches Ken Hall and Chris Gee for leading the team!
- Apparently, there were some wagers put on the gold medal game to inspire our players…one was paid by our less hairy Scotty Legassie. Scotty has shaved his head and beard (with the help of the team and our some of our armed forces) after guaranteeing he would do so with a victory! Other wagers have yet to be paid….STAY TUNED!
- On behalf of all the Cruisers we congratulate T-WEST! You did us proud!
- The team was made up of the following players:
Go Cruisers!
- Last weekend the All Blacks travelled to Buffalo to play a very spirited game against the Sabres. The Buffalo team added a couple National team players and took the game 6-3. The game was much closer than the score. Goal scorers were Jordan Cullum (2) and Phillip Kujawa. Assists went to Karl Ludwig (3) and Phillip.
- The Juniors travelled to Hamilton to play an elimination playoff game. The Cruisers came away with a 2-0 victory with goals by Anthony Gale (2) and an assist to Marko Markovic. Austin Smeenk earned the shutout. The team will travel to Buffalo on February 23rd for the next round of the playoffs.
- The Silver Streaks lost to Hamilton 6-2. Cruiser goal scorers were Josh Giles (from behind the net), assited by Michael Kahn and Robbie Carmicheal, and Adam Cosburn unassisted.
- The Ontario Paralympics Winter Championships are taking place this weekend in Collingwood. The Cruisers will be representing the Toronto-West region and hope to come back with the gold medal.
- The Cruisers received a cheque for $3,000 from the Rick Hansen Man in Motion Foundation! The funds will be used to purchase equipment for sledge hockey and wheelchair racing. The funds were raised at a community event in Mississauga where Ken and Karen Thom organized a number of Cruisers to participate in their event.
GO CRUISERS GO!
Friday, February 8, 2008 -
What a weekend!
- The Cruisers had a great weekend in London two weeks ago. We were by far the largest group there. The athletes, parents and supporters were great in supporting all three teams!
- The Junior team was placed in the Junior A division and came home with a Silver medal! On Friday night the team played the Mid-Americans (a team made up from Pittsburgh, Columbus and area). This was a rematch from last year’s final game where the Cruisers lost 2-1 in a close battle. This game was not as close as the Cruisers came up on the short end of a 6-0 loss. On Saturday, they played the Northern Sliders from Sudbury. This was a very physical game where 7 penalties were called…six against Sudbury. The Cruisers maintained their exposure and took advantage of the man advantages to come away with a 3-1 victory. Austin Smeenk played a great game and shined in the second period when Sudbury put on the pressure. Goals were scored by Sam Ciafaloni and Anthony Gale (2). Assists went to Austin (yes, our goalie!), Nathan Gerrard, Isaiah Christophe and Anthony G. On Saturday afternoon the Juniors played Kitchener in another rematch of teams from the Junior A division last year. The Kitchener squad is in a rebuilding stage after losing a number of players to their intermediate teams. The Juniors came away with a 7-1 win with goals by Isaiah (4) and Anthony G. (3). Assists went to Isaiah (2), Anthony G. (2), Austin (another one!), Anthony Protomanni, and Johnathan Gies. The Juniors award a game puck after every game but on this game three pucks were awarded to the GIRL POWER line of Renee Foessel, Olivia Smeenk and Michaela Rye for their great play throughout the game! The Gold Medal game was once again played against the Mid-Americans. They had a highly skilled team that dominated most of the game. They built up an 8-0 lead before 2 goals were scored by Anthony G. in the final few minutes to break the shutout.
- The Silver Streaks started the tournament against Great Lakes and came away with a 5 - 1 loss. The Cruiser goal was scored by David Ali and assisted from Michael Kahn. The first game on Saturday was against one of the host teams from London. The Cruisers fought a tough battle but came up short in a 6-0 loss. The final game against Niagara was by far the most exiting with the Silver Streaks losing in the final minute to Niagara with the final being 3-2. David Ali scored an unassisted goal and Steve Surman scored his first goal as a Cruiser! Roseanne Hughes tallied her second point this season with an assist on the goal. A second assist was awarded to David Ali. The Silvers Streaks played as a team and bonded well together. They never gave up and showed the true spirit of the game!
- The All Blacks started the tournament strong beating Elmvale 9-1. Goals scored by Americo Morais (2), Jordan Cullum (2), Curtis Thom (2), Michael Careri, Karl Ludwig, and Gord Bollert. Assists went to Americo, Jordan (3), Curtis (2), Michael, Karl, Gord, Peter Wakelin, Phillip Kujawa, and Ryan Bennett. In their second game Cameron Jenkins earned a shutout with a 4-0 win over Ottawa. Goals were scored by Curtis, Jordan, Karl, and Americo. Assists went to Karl, Americo, Gord, Michael, and Phillip (2). In the third game the All-Blacks had a tough game against Quebec and tied 5-5 with goals by Curtis (2), Jordan, Americo, and Karl. Assists went to Jordan, Karl, James Hughes, Michael and Phillip(2). The team had to play a semi-final game on Sunday morning against Kingston and won 4-0. Cameron secured his second shutout of the tournament and goals were scored by Americo (2), and Karl (2). Assist went to Americo, Karl, Jordan, Phillip, Kevin Duchane, and Gord (2). The All Blacks played the gold medal game against Quebec for a true rubber match. In a very entertaining and physical game the Cruisers came away with the Silver medal in a 3-1 loss. The All Blacks goal was scored by Curtis and assisted by Michael and Gord. Although the team was smaller and younger than the Quebec team they never quit and pressured right till the end.
- All three Cruisers teams showed class, sportsmanship, and teamwork. All Cruisers athletes and supporters should feel proud of our club’s performance!
- The Cruisers had 5 players selected to play in the two All-Star games. Congratulations to Josh Giles, Russell Winkelaar, Michael Careri, Isaiah Christophe and Anthony Gale.
- A big thank you goes out to Scott Legassie who came out to support the teams! Here is a note from Kathy Ludwig:
I just wanted to take the time to say thanks again for a great tournament. All three of our teams did us proud and the support for each other was amazing. I also wanted to take time to thank Skotty who worked very hard behind the scenes, getting sledges (even lost ones), helping load and unload, saving as many lockers for us as he could and helping whenever he saw the need. These things were very much appreciated and helped everyone run a whole lot smoother. Once again to the coaching staff I say, thanks for all your hard work and time. Our "Cheer Team" this year I am sure get top awards as well......way to go girls.
Thanks and "WAY TO GO CRUISERS"
Kathy
Go Cruisers Go
Friday, February 1, 2008 -
- I am pleased to announce the Cruisers have been accepted as a charity to receive proceeds of Bingo at the International Centre! We have 11 dates from March until April. We are still looking for volunteers to help run these bingos. We have two training sessions. One on Feb 5th and one on Feb 12th. These sessions start at 5:30 pm. Please let me know if you can join us. This fundraising will help us expand the Cruisers, keep our costs down, provide more ice time, and provide up to date equipment to name a few. We have the following dates. Mar 9, 23, April 6, 20, May 18, Jun 1, 15, Jul 13, 27, Aug 10, 24. These are all Sundays at 7pm. If you can help us out we would love to have you join us.
- The Brampton Rotary has asked us to demonstrate sledge hockey at their annual Skate-a-thon on February 17th. We have done this demonstration over the past couple years and have received front page media exposure on the Brampton Guardian. Please let me know if you can attend on Sunday February 17th at 1pm. It runs for two hours and is held at Brampton’s outdoor skating path at Gage Park at Queen St and Main St.
- Game summaries from the London tournament will be out shortly.
Go Cruisers Go!
- The Junior team played Whitby at home on Saturday January 12th and came away with a 5-1 win. The highlight of the game was Jake Delaney scoring his first goal as a Cruiser. Jake was in a perfect position in front of the net where he received a pass and slapped it in for the first goal of the game! Jake also had two assists in the game. Other goal scorers were Robbie Armstrong with two goals, Isaiah Christophe with two goals and Anthony Gale with a goal. Assists went to Anthony Gale (2), Richard Sookraj (2), Jonathan Gies, Michaela Rye, Sam Ciafaloni, and Robbie Armstrong.
- On January 19th the Junior team played another home game against Niagara and won 6-2. As Niagara was short on players Austin Smeenk played goal for them and played a great game stopping a ton of Cruiser shots. This game featured two more first-time goal scorers. Jonathan Gies scored his first goal in the second period by taking a pass in front of the net and shooting it in. Paul Manieri scored his first goal when he moved up to the forward position half way through the game. Paul jammed the puck in the net from the right side to finish the Cruiser scoring. Other scores were Anthony Gale (2), Isaiah Christophe, and Sam Ciafaloni. Assists went to Robbie Armstrong (3), Paul Manieri (2), Anthony Gale (2), Kennedy Chisamore-Johnston, Olivia Smeenk, Renee Foessel, and Isaiah Christophe,
- The Silver Streaks played a home exhibition game against North Bay on Januray 12th and won 2-0. Goals scorers were Josh Giles and David Ali. Assists went to David Ali and Robbie Carmichael.
- On January 19th the Silver Streaks lost 8-0 to Kitchener.
- The All Blacks had an early morning practice at Iceland arena on Saturday January 12th and an even earlier practice on January 19th at Fletchers Creek in Brampton. They are preparing for a tough battle at the London Blizzard tournament.
- We will see everyone in London. Check out the schedule here. Also, check with your coaches to find out when you are expected to be at the arena for each of your games. Make sure you wear your Cruiser apparel and cheer on the other Cruiser teams!
- We have hoodies for sale for $40. The hoodies have been very popular and will be very dominant at the arena in London. Let me know if you would like to purchase one. I will bring some to London. All athletes were given a toque at the Christmas Luncheon. If you didn’t receive one please let me know. We also have some toques for sale for $10.
- Curtis Thom participated at the Las Vegas Marathon and finished 2nd in the Wheelchair division with a time of 2 hours, 11 minutes!
Go Cruisers!
- Last week all three teams had a game.
- The Juniors played a home game against Hamilton and came out victorious with a score of 5-2. Goal scorers were Robbie Armstrong with his first two goals as a Cruiser! Anthony Gale (2) and Isaiah Christophe. Assists went to Anthony Gale (2), Richard Sookraj (2), Nathan Gerrard (2), Sam Ciafaloni, Jake Delaney, Kennedy Chisamore-Johnston, and Paul Manieri.
- The All-Blacks played a home game against Buffalo and lost a spirited game 4-1. The Cruiser goal was scored by Phillip Kujawa and assisted by Americo Morais and Ryan Bennett.
- The Silver Streaks were on the road against a strong Kitchener team. David Ali scored the goal and was set up Robbie Carmichael and Rose Hughes. It was a thing of beauty. Rose passed it behind her back to Robbie who passed it across the crease to an open David who banged it home.
- Hope to see every tomorrow!
Go Cruisers!
Friday, December 7, 2007 -
- The Junior team had an exhibition game against Elmvale on Saturday at home. As Elmvale only had 5 players, 5 Cruisers joined them to create team RED while team WHITE was made up of 11 Cruisers. The game saw Olivia Smeenk score her first goal as a Cruiser in his first game played! Also, Kennedy Chisamore-Johnston scored his first goal as a Cruiser on the same week as his birthday! Michaela Rye played her first game as a Cruiser as well. Goals for Team White were score by Anthony Gale (3), Olivia, and Anthony Protomanni. Assists went to Olivia and Anthony P. Team RED goal scorers from the Cruisers were Kennedy, Isaiah Christophe, and Sam Ciafaloni. Assists went to Isaiah and Sam. The game ended 5-4 for team WHITE.
- The Junior’s Sunday away game at Niagara was cancelled due to the weather.
- The Silver Streaks had another exciting game at home winning 3-1. Goal scorers were Josh Giles, Russell Winkelaar both unassisted and David Ali from Michael Kahn. Bryan Mason played a great game in net with a highlight reel glove save on a breakaway. Coach Chris Gee stated that it was the best game this squad has played so far this year. Way to go, Silver Streaks!
- On the road, the All-Blacks played in Buffalo again. This week they played the Buffalo senior team and lost 8-1. Jordan Cullum scored the Cruiser goal.
- As reported in the last newsflash, the All-Blacks played Buffalo and won 9-2. Goals were scored by Curtis Thom (4), Michel Careri (2), Jordan Cullum, Kevin Duchane, and Karl Ludwig.
- Please find attached the information regarding the Brock University study I mentioned in a newsflash 2 weeks ago. There is a link that will bring you to a survey that you can fill out. Please take the time to fill this out as studies like this benefit us all.
- The Cruisers have a great opportunity to receive the proceeds of Bingo at International Bingo. More details are attached in a letter attached to this email. Please take a minute to read this as we will require the help of our membership.
- Mark December 22nd on your calendar for our annual Christmas Luncheon. We will have a family skate at Iceland arena from 11:15 to 12:05 and then will have lunch upstairs at Ice Breakers restaurant. We need to know how many will be attending with you and we will be asking for your meal requests on December 8th at the arena.
Go Cruisers!
- On Saturday November 17th, the 2007 Ontario Para Sports Awards were handed out. Congratulations to Kyle Pettey and Isaiah Christophe of the Cruisers who won awards.
- Toronto, ON – The 2007 Ontario ParaSport Awards were handed out on Saturday November 17th at the DoubleTree International Plaza Hotel in Toronto. Members of Ontario Amputee and Les Autres Sports Association (OALASA), Ontario Cerebral Palsy Sports Association (OCPSA), Ontario Blind Sports Association (OBSA) and Ontario Wheelchair Sports Association (OWSA), were in attendance to present their awards during an exciting and fun-filled evening.
Award recipients included:
Ron Foster Award
Linda Leppek – nominated by OCPSA
Cliff and Sandra Johns – nominated by OWSA
Faye Blackwood – nominated by PO
PO Awards
Corporate Appreciation Award - Shoppers HomeHealthCare
RWA Ambassador of the Year - Irene Van Eenoo
OALASA Awards
Female Athlete of the Year - Stefanie Reid
OBSA Awards
Outstanding Performance - Sarah Hargraves
Most Improved - Brandon King
Male Athlete of the Year - Tim Ekert
OCPSA Award Recipients
Jr. Male Athlete of the Year – Kevin Strybosch
Jr. Female Athlete of the Year- Virginia McLachlan
Sr. Male Athlete of the Year - Kyle Pettey
Sr. Female Athlete of the Year - Tammy McLeod
Team of the Year - Team Ontario - Boccia
Coach of the Year - Russ Woloshyn
OWSA Award Recipients
Jr. Male Athlete of the Year – Isaiah Chrisophe
Jr. Female Athlete of the Year – Kierra Gibson
Rookie of the Year – Jason Crone
Volunteer of the Year – Mary-Lou Shapiro
Dr. Robert Jackson Award – Katherine Helleur
Team of the Year – Div. 2 Ontario Wheelchair Rugby Team
Coach of the Year – Amanda Fader
Male Athlete of the Year – Josh Cassidy
Female Athlete of the Year – Melanie Hawtin
- The Silver Streaks played Peterborough on Saturday at home. It was an entertaining game with Peterborough dominating the first period while the Silver Streaks took over the final two periods. With less than 1 second left the Patriots squeezed the puck in the bottom corner of the net to win the game 1-0. The Silver Streaks play this Saturday at home against Niagara.
- The All Blacks travelled to Buffalo and dominated once again 9-2.
- The Juniors will play an exhibition game against Elmvale on Saturday and their first league game against Niagara in St. Catharines on Sunday evening.
Go Cruisers!
Friday, November 23, 2007 -
Last week we told you the All Blacks won their first game against Buffalo. Here are the goal scorers: Curtis Thom (2), Americo Morais (2), Phillip Kujawa (1), Michael Careri (1) and Kevin Russell scored his first goal as a Cruiser! Assists went to Jordan Cullum (his first point as a Cruiser), Karl Ludwig (4), Peter Wakelin (2, his first points as an intermediate), Phillip (1), Michael (1), Gord Bollert (1), and Americo (2). This was a home game and not a road game as reported last week.
- This weekend the All Blacks travel to Buffalo for their second game of the year.
- The Silver Streaks will play their 3rd home game this Saturday against Peterborough.
- This past Saturday marked our annual Pledge-a-Sledge and Silent Auction. As our Director of Fundraising, Cindy Pettibone has put together the following summary:
- The Cruisers put on yet another successful fundraising event. The preliminary revenue total is just over $10,000! Watch for the final tallies and of course our top fundraising athletes.
- I would like to take the time to thank all the athletes and their families who found sponsors, collected pledges and donated items, and as always, purchased items. The Silent Auction highlight was the very intense bidding war particularly the last 30 seconds of the auction between Ken Cullum and Don Carmichael with Don winning the Raptor’s courtside seats. Congratulations Don, enjoy the game! Thanks to Robbie Armstrong and his family for donating the much sought after item.
- This event was also supported by our many volunteers...Tony and Anna Gale, Kathy Ludwig, Linda Beacham, Sania Markovic, Anna-Maria and Domenic Manieri, Deb and Bob Wakelin, Mary Bennett, Josie & Roy Gies, Barb & Anthony Protomanni, Debbie & Mike Foessel, Laura Surman, and on ice support by Ken Hall and Chris Gee...if I have forgotten anyone, I apologize. You are all very much appreciated!
- Our format for the day was changed this year and saw exhibition games between Erinoak Therapists and Silver Streaks (thank you Kathy for arranging) followed by a demonstration intra squad game by the All blacks. The final game was between some Peel Board Teachers (and some late additions) taking on the Juniors. It was an exciting game with the teachers winning in a shootout! Finally the athletes did laps for their pledges. As this was a little different, we are looking for feedback... positives, highlights, and suggestions for next year. You can forward your thoughts to your Athlete’s Rep, Americo Morais.
- Thank you for your support!
- The YMCA of Mississauga has started a swimming program called Y-KNOT. The program offers recreational and competitive swimming to individuals aged 6 to 18 with physical disabilities. If you are interested in learning more please contact Elizabeth Cummings at 905-897-6801 x487.
- The Ontario Winter Paralympic games are in Collingwood over the February 15-17 weekend. This falls on the new ‘Family Day’ long weekend. If you are taking part in the games or are planning to head up for the weekend we suggest you book your rooms early. With the new long weekend, good skiing weather, and the games all taking part during the same weekend you may find the hotels will sell out quickly.
- This Saturday November 23rd is the National Sports Big 60 Sale. This is an opportunity for you to get lower prices on any sports equipment you may need while at the same time earning the Cruisers some funds if you present your ‘Team Partner Card’ when you make your purchases. If you don’t have a card please see Cindy Pettibone.
- We have been contacted by researchers of the Behavioural Medicine Lab, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences of Brock University. They are looking for your input via a survey. Our participation in these type of studies can help develop our sports and our athletes. It also provides us with the exposure we are always looking for. I will forward you the original email for your information. They are looking for email addresses of our members so they can send you additional information and a link to their survey. I will provide your email addresses only. This will not release any of your personal information. You may decide to participate or not based on your own decision.
- The following news article was in the Mississauga News: (By: John Stewart )
November 12, 2007 - It was called Gotta Skate and that’s what people did.
The eighth-annual fundraising event — held in memory of former professional skater and suicide victim Donna Lee Zampieron — took place Sunday at Iceland Arena, with all proceeds going to the local Crohn’s and Colitis society.
Zampieron’s mother, Helen Stahls, with help from friends and family, stage the event each year to keep the skate's memory alive.
Zamperion, a Mississauga native who skated briefly with Holiday On Ice in Europe before her depression and Crohn's hospitalized her, was a long-time skating instructor in the City of Mississauga's Learn to Skate program.
Since its inception, Gotta Skate has raised more than $70,000, mostly through sale of "mystery bags" made up of donated items and an annual silent auction.
Each year the Cruisers sledge hockey team and members of local skating clubs put on exhibitions. Participants can also enjoy public pleasure skating.
Since her daughter's death, Stahls has become a volunteer and staff member with Bereaved Families of Halton and Peel, which provides counselling and support to those dealing with grief following the death of a family member.
Go Cruisers!
Friday, November 16, 2007 -
This Saturday is our Pledge-a-Sledge weekend. As Americo stated in an earlier email, please bring in your Pledge-a-Sledge forms and all your funds raised. Also, if you have received sponsorships please bring them this weekend. The on ice events will include a Junior game against some of the juniors teachers! We will also have a intra-squad game by the All-Blacks. A third game by the Silver Streaks will take place against Erinoak. We would like everyone at the arena for 11:00.
- 11:15 – Noon Silver Streaks vs Erinoak
- 12:10 – 12:30 All Blacks Intra-squad game
- 12:45 – 1:30 Juniors vs Teachers
- 1:30 – 2:00 Laps
- This Saturday also marks our Silent Auction. Although we only have a couple days to collect prizes we will still accept them. We are way behind last year and need more donations to help us raise funds! Please contact Cindy Pettibone at fundraising@cruisers-sports.com if you have more prizes.
- If you were unable to open the attachment on the jacket order I have attached another one that you should be able to open. Jacket orders need to be emailed to me by this Sunday November 18th.
- The Silver Streaks have played two league games. In the first game on the road against Niagara on October 27th they were victorious with a 2-0 win. Goal scored by David Ali, assists from Graham Borsk and Josh Giles, Second goal scored by Joshand assisted by Robbie Carmichael. In the second game at home on Nov 3rd the London Blizzard won 7-0. A great job by Joshua Watson who stepped up to play goalie!
- The All Blacks travelled to Buffalo and won 7-0. Scorers will be updated in our next newsflash.
- The Juniors did a demo at the ‘Just Gotta Skate’ event in support of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation on Sunday November 11th at Iceland arena. This is the 3rd year the team has been invited to the demonstration. Keep an eye on the Mississauga News this week as two photographers were there from the paper taking pictures.
- The first Talent Identification Camp for the regional team of Toronto East will take place this Saturday at 6am at Fletcher’s Creek Arena in Brampton. Ken Hall and Chris Gee have been selected as coaches for this team.
- Tony Gale and Alex Szerenyi will be coaching the under 15 program on behalf of the Ontario Sledge Hockey Association (OSHA). More details around this program will be coming out shortly.
- Karl Ludwig, Josh Giles, Isaiah Christophe, Jordan Cullum, Phillip Kujawa and Anthony Gale were selected to the 20 and under OSHA team. The team travelled to Buffalo to play the USA u20 team over the October 26/27 weekend. The US team beat the OSHA team 4-1 and 5-0 in the two game exhibition series.
- On October 28th Curtis Thom raced in the Niagara Falls International Marathon. Chelsea Clark, Isaiah Christophe and Karina Nowaczyk took part in the 10K race.
- Have you registered for the hotel in London yet? Don’t get left out. The Cruisers will be staying at the Hilton. Don’t register late and find out the hotel is sold out. As a reminder the London Blizzard tournament in January 25-27th.
Go Cruisers!