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Students and staff in Bluewater District School Board were part of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity from January 18 to 21, 2023 as Hockey Day in Canada descended upon our local area.
Throughout the week, international and local hockey celebrities were greeted at schools by enthusiastic students, staff, and families proudly decked out in hockey attire as they excitedly awaited a chance for a photo opportunity or autograph. Household names included National Hockey League stars Lanny McDonald, Darcy Tucker, Bobby Ryan, and Wendel Clark, Victoria Bach and Blayre Turnbull of the Professional Women's Hockey Players Association, Olympic gold medalist and broadcaster Cassie Campbell-Pascall, famed Hockey Night in Canada host Ron MacLean, members of the Owen Sound Attack, and a few familiar mascots.
Visits to East Ridge Community and Alexandra Community schools included a special appearance by the Stanley Cup, while Chesley District Community and Normanby Community schools were the lucky recipients of a private skate with the cup at The Plex in Port Elgin, sponsored by Bruce Power. At this event, students were able to have their pictures taken with an NHL alumni and the cup, enjoy tasty snacks, and learn about medical isotopes in an interactive ball pit exhibit, presented by the Nuclear Innovative Institute.
At East Ridge and Alexandra, students were offered a chance at the microphone to ask their guests a range of questions. Some of these included naming their favourite rink, hockey player, and pre-game meal, explaining what their approach would be if they were a coach, sharing their strategies for good luck, and predicting this year's Stanley Cup winning team. Student Alyssa Law also presented her winning East Ridge jersey from a school contest to Ron MacLean. In a surprise, Ron gave her his coat in return.
At Georgian Bay Community School, Cassie Campbell-Pascall read "The Hockey Sweater" to the Grade 3 class, answered questions, and signed autographs.
Another highlight of the week was Owen Sound District Secondary School's participation in an east versus west girls and boys hockey challenge at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre in Owen Sound.
Many schools also organized hockey jersey days and created themed art celebrating our national sport. This historical and jubilant celebration has undoubtedly created a trove of treasured memories, which will remain with our Bluewater students, staff, and families for many years to come!
View our photo gallery below, which captures some of the many amazing highlights of the week.