GUEST SPEAKER: JAMES TITMARSH – SLEDGE HOCKEY
Mark Blackmore introduced James Titmarsh, President of the Durham Steel Hawks Sledge Hockey organization. Mark noted that sledge hockey was invented in Sweden in the 1970’s. Competition stared in 1971 and in 1997, Durham Steel Hawks started, open to those with and also without disabilities. James has done everything with the organization (participant, works with volunteers, advocates, works with sponsors and referees, etc) and is a past Vice president of the Ontario Sledge Hockey Association. He is regarded as the Superman of Sledge Hockey.
James Remarks:
James noted that since Covid-19, and March 23, 2020 there has been no sledge hockey games or practices or tournaments. This has been very difficult time for the players since this may be their only time out of their homes. They are all looking forward to getting back into sledge hockey.
There are 30 members of the Durham Steelhawks- in two age groups (8 to 16) and (16 and up). There are 30 to 40 teams in Ontario. In a normal season, they play each other and have two tournaments - one in November and one in January – with teams from all over the world. Jeremy Booker, a member of the national team , works closely with the Steel Hawks .
Rotary Clubs of Whitby, Whitby-Sunrise and our Club have assisted them with some of their expenses. Ontario Power Generation is a major sponsor.
James' presentation to our club very clearly indicated how passionate he is about the sport and the camaraderie that exists amongst the participants. His experiences playing against teams from Russia, Europe and North America demonstrated the International nature of Sledge Hockey. His Gold Medal experience was just one of the highlights he shared with us. Basically, the man loves what he does and is a great ambassador. OPG is a sponsor of the Whitby Club.
Sue noted that she found it hard to watch because of the rough, speedy action.
David Penny asked about the equipment costs.
Kris has never seen it played, so Mark showed a series of action pictures for the club.
Robert asked if women and girls played.
Bob asked about TSN coverage of championship games.
Ana asked if there are any classes for young kids to take to learn how to play.
Jan stated that our club would be discussing our desire to provide some financial aid to Durham Steel Hawks.
Sue mentioned that after Covid-19 is over, we would like to watch a game in Whitby.
Two years ago, during the Ontario Parasport Games in Durham Region, the Steel Hawks played in the Games and really put their organization in the map.
They are trying to build a sledge hockey arena, so that the players can be accessible and skate right into the players’ bench. There are arenas in Brampton, Windsor and Ottawa. One in Durham region would put the organization in great shape to host international tournaments.
James goal is to reach out to all of the communities in the Durham Region, promoting the sport and the organization and trying to raise funds so that players who can’t afford to play, can do so.
Cost of a sled ranges from $860 for a junior and $1,000 to 1,200 for an intermediate. The club pays for the sled and can adjust them to suit the player. Its just too big a bundle for a player. Sticks range from $60 to $260. Annual registration is $375 (for 2 tournaments and 23 games and or practices). There is full contact at the intermediate level (very competitive at times).
TSN does carry the national games and world championship game annually.
James was thanked by Heather. Mark referees the games and Heather is a time keeper. Before 2020 closures, they were at Iroquois Park every second Sunday all winter long to work the games. They got to see how much it meant to all the players - especially the younger juniors.
The Ontario Sledge Hockey Association website is : https://www.ontariosledge.com/
President Sue concluded our meeting at 8:15 pm
UPCOMING MEETINGS:
Jan 26, 2021. 7 pm Mark Blackmore (Heather’s Spouse) Toastmasters International - A new Rotary Partner
Feb 2, 2021. 7 pm Dena Sicard Executive Director of Denise House
Feb 9, 2021. 7 pm Our club’s Zoom Valentine Party
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