This Saturday, the Innisfail Bantam AA team will play off against the Arapahoe Ice Warriors from Denver, Colo., during an exhibition game at the Enmax Centrium.
Coach Sean Caple, formerly from Red Deer, is making his ninth trip in the last 12 years back to his hometown to give his team a chance to play the national sport of the Great White North.
“Over 150 players and close to 200 parents have had the opportunity to experience the Canadian culture — on and off the ice,” explained Caple. “The hospitality is second to none … teams host us to socials, curling and meet us at the outdoor rinks for shinny.”
Caple, who grew up and played minor hockey in Red Deer, travelled to Europe as a peewee with the Arber Crest Comets.
“It was an experience I will never forget. I try to do the same for players and parents on these trips and give them an experience they will never forget.”
Sue Haddow, manager of the Innisfail bantams, said Innisfail has been taking part in the tradition for at least four years. She said in the past, the team has travelled to Denver to return the courtesy.
“The boys are so excited, they’re really enthusiastic,” she said, adding that only one of the current team members has played the exhibition game before.
“This is great for the kids to meet other kids and just get the opportunity they wouldn’t normally get.”
In the past, the team has played in Innisfail, but this year, they will play at the Centrium in Red Deer.
“This year, we’re trying something different with a bigger venue — just something a little more exciting.”
She said Caple does most of the organizing and sends a shout-out to teams in the area who may be interested and available to play. Sylvan Lake, Lacombe and a Red Deer team will also square off against the Denver team on different dates.
“We come back a new team,” said Caple of the experience. “We are playing strong, physical, good Canadian hockey up here and we don’t have any other option than to compete. They push themselves outside of their comfort zone on the ice which helps them become better players.”
Innisfail bantams will go up against Denver at 11 a.m. Jan. 14 at the Enmax Centrium. Admission is free.
