Hockey No. 1 at Games

By Kate Bouey - Castanet Sep 14, 2017 / 2:00 pm |
Ice rinks in Vernon and Armstrong are busy this week, from sun up to sun down, as players from all over the province fight to win at the BC 55+ Games. While it may come as no surprise to many, ice hockey is the most popular sport of these games in terms of numbers. A total of 453 men and women signed up and have been suiting up to play in local arenas. Divisions are split in terms of age, ranging from a 55+ division to a 75+ division. That means any hockey player over 80 has to play with his younger counterparts. Former Vernon mayor Wayne McGrath, 74, has played hockey in past senior games and continues with his love of hockey. “I just love the guys I play with, good friendships there, and it's good exercise...as long as you don't get injured,” McGrath said. McGrath admitted there are still bumps, bruises and a few stitches for players along the way. “It's non checking, no contact they call it, but occasionally there are accidental contacts,” he laughed. No matter, McGrath said he'll be on the ice as long as he is able and as long as he enjoys it. “And I hope that's another 10 years.”