Crowsnest Pass is celebrating the game of hockey this week. Minor hockey week has begun and with it comes a time of fun and reflection. Wes Rypien, the president of Crowsnest Pass Minor Hockey Association, says that this week is a great way to come together as a community and enjoy all the game has to offer.

“It’s an opportunity that as Canadians we can look back and reflect on one of our national pass times. As a team sport its done a great job of bringing people together.”

Rypien also says that for him personally, it’s a chance to reflect on what the game means to him and give thanks to the people that allowed him to get into minor hockey.

There are currently only three teams that are a part of the Crowsnest Pass Minor Hockey Association but there are also some players playing in Pincher Creek. Rypien says it’s the only option currently for these players if they want to continue playing.

“At certain age groups we have to provide these players with the opportunity to play hockey somewhere. Joining teams out of town is the best option at the moment but I don’t think it’s the best option for the future.”

Rypien says that the low numbers don’t give these players any other choice.

Over the weekend, the Pass was able to welcome teams from Lethbridge, Airdrie, Cochrane, Canmore Calgary and the Rocky Mountain area for the Crow United Bantam Tournament put on by Lethbridge and Airdrie.

Chad Petrone, a hockey dad and a previous member of Crowsnest Pass Minor Hockey, says that these teams are extremely thankful for the opportunity to come and play this tournament in the Crowsnest Pass.

“We thought this would be a great venue to host this tournament. It’s been great. Crowsnest Pass Minor Hockey has been fantastic in helping us host this event. It’s been a nice joint partnership.”

Petrone said he really wanted to stress how grateful he and the hockey community are for the chance to come to the Crowsnest for this tournament.

Having been involved with minor hockey in the Pass before and seeing where it is now, Petrone believes that it will get back to a stronger level eventually.

“It’s going to get better. They have some good people in charge and it’s only a matter of time before they rebound.”

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