The Innisfail Christmas Classic was anything but that, but the spirit was willing.
Hockey fans at the Innisfail Arena were treated to an 11 - 7 victory by the Orange team, the Elfs, over the White team, the Reindeer, on Dec. 23 at the third annual Innisfail Minor Hockey Association Alumni game.
Organizer Nick Bell was pleased with the contest, and the Innisfail and Area Food Bank received 200 lbs. of food and $400 of cash donations from the 50 plus fans who showed up to cheer on Innisfaill's favourite hockey sons.
“This year's event featured something a little different,” said Bell. “One of our players, Bryce Willigar, wrote a song called The Christmas Classic for the game, then performed it for our audience.”
Willigar performed The Christmas Classic and like the singing cowboys of old, donned guitar and full hockey gear. One of the lines in the song, ‘feeling ecstatic for the Christmas Classic' drew cheers and hockey stick love from the players.
Rookie Innisfail Mayor Brian Spiller then dropped the puck for the game, and the contest was underway.
The Elfs struck first and continued their dominant offensive efforts until the end of the first period when they led 4-1.
Fans were treated to a fast-paced skating match from end to end, from the start of the first right to the end of the third period. Friends off ice, the teams of 16 players each, battled for Innisfail Christmas Classic supremacy.
When asked about the future of the game, Bell responded with enthusiasm.
“There was discussion if we should expand the game and include present minor hockey players for two games on the same day,” said Bell. “But it comes down to a matter of time. Unless we get some help to organize the younger players that won't happen. It would make for a great day of hockey though.”
By the end of the game, the Elfs had outscored the Reindeer by a wide margin.
“The Elfs were too much for our goalie,” added Bell. “You have good days, but this was good hockey. We look forward to next year. Thanks to all our fans for coming out and supporting the Innisfail Food Bank.”
