Off the Rock, hockey

It is that try-out time of year and congratulations are already in order for some Manitoulin players pursuing their sport at the top level. The Espanola Rivermen of the still new CIHL (Canadian International Hockey League) have named a trio local players. Gore Bay’s Carter Noble and Birch Island’s Barry Pitawanakwat and Nevada Waindubence who will now get to be on a regular tour of Ontario this winter. The Rivermen will play to the west in Sault Ste. Marie against the Batchewana Attack, east to Sudbury and the Royals, through St. Charles against the Spirit, south against the Collingwood Ice, then the Colborne Hawks, the Milton Cobra and the Toronto Hockey Academy.

The three are playing tier 2 Junior A but won’t have a chance to play against Wikwemikong’s Ronson Odjig who will wear the black and red of the NOJHL’s Blind River Beavers.

Playing ‘AAA’ in the Great North Midget League will be another Island trio of skaters who are now Nickel City Sons. Congrats to Mitchal Payette, Thomas Hayden and Alex Smith, who are looking forward to very solid looking Son’s squad this year for a very competitive league. Good luck to everyone this season.

Tennis greats inspire youngster

There is often much talk about professional athletes being paid too much or that countries spend too much money on their Olympics’ program. What is not usually not in contention is how a young athlete can be inspired by watching these elite athletes up close or how a few kind words from your hero can drive him to be the best he can be. Ten year old Jacob Wilson, luckily, had both experiences. The Central Manitoulin lad had played some recreational tennis and liked the sport enough to start watching games on TV with his mom. His next step was a few lessons from Manitoulin Tennis Club organizer Chris Theijsmeijer who was great for Jacob with his patience. So when he had the opportunity to see the best in the world in person at the Roger’s Cup in Toronto, he jumped at it.

They got to see #7 seed, Canadian Milos Raonic, #1 seed Novak Djokovic, as well as the Brian brothers play. After that he had a special honour as Djokovic actually talked to Jacob wishing him well when he signed his tennis ball!

From then on, Jacob has been working on his game, hard. He attended a camp at the Tennis School in Mississauga and is scheduled to go for a first of its kind clinic in Ottawa. The Junior Evert Clinic will be held September 19 – 21st at Tennis Centre in West Ottawa. The National Tennis School in partnership with the world renowned Evert Tennis Academy from Boca Raton Florida. NTS is flying up a team of coaches and physical trainer from Evert Tennis Academy Florida and is offering a chance for players 8-18 years of age to participate in this first of its kind in Canada.

It looks like an amazing opportunity for the youngster who is driven to learn as much as he can about the game and train to his potential. Good luck, Jacob and keep up the hard work.

Manitoulin Tennis Club wrapper

The Manitoulin Tennis Club held their final official session for the 2014 summer season. It was a successful year, topped off with the end of season tournament in August. Cliff Neldor took the singles title this year and the team of John Corbiere and Chris Theijsmeijer won the doubles category. Thanks to everyone who came out throughout the summer and see you next year. Note that the MTC is thinking of offering classes for kids next summer. Contact Chris Theijsmeijer at 282-8467 if you are interested.

Ramsey Tour-ists

Congratulations to three local runners who conquered the hilly, 21km Ramsey half-marathon. Hats off to Gore Bay’s Greg Bond and Andrea and Lorilee McGregor from Birch Island for a great effort.