“The kids got a sense of the spirit of hockey in Michigan”

The following story was e-mailed to us by Aaron Ellenbogen, a coach with the Orchard Lake Pirates ‘02 team. Read about a moving act in youth hockey, made even more special that it happened on Warrior Hockey Day in Michigan.

“Hockey Day in Michigan came and went this past weekend, and there are undoubtedly many great stories that occurred as we celebrate the heritage of hockey in our state.  One of the events was 24 continuous hours of hockey at Joe Louis Arena.  For youth hockey players, the opportunity to play on the same ice that their NHL heroes frequent is a special experience.

Late on the eve of the big day, a team had dropped out and the Orchard Lake Pirates 2002 team received a call asking if they could fill in.  Without hesitation, the head coach said that he would put together a team to play.  He did not know whom the opponent would be or which kids may be available to play.  The emails and the phone calls began around midnight and by the next morning a team was put together.  It was not the usual complement of players, however.  Instead, a team of 2002-2005 players was assembled for the big event at the Joe.

As it turns out, the opponent for the scrimmage was an accomplished Livingston Lightening 2001 team.  Within a few minutes, it was clear that the hodgepodge collection of Pirates was overmatched.  The Livingston coaches quickly suggested a swap of goalies.  At the end of the first period a number of other players swapped jerseys, and soon, rather than two teams playing against each other, there was a large group of hockey players enjoying the moment and playing for the sheer fun of it on the Joe Louis Arena ice.

As a parent and coach, this was a special moment for me.  The kids got a sense of the spirit of hockey in Michigan.  This is a game that is supposed to be fun.  Moreover, they learned the meaning of sportsmanship.  In the end, rather than take photos as two separate teams, the kids gathered in front of one of the nets and a single photo was taken to commemorate the experience.”

Have a story you would like to share with us? Contact editor Michael Caples – mcaples@mihockeynow.com