Rogers Hometown Hockey returns, bringing attention to diversity
Posted February 20, 2016 9:53 am.
Last Updated February 20, 2016 10:00 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
ABBOTSFORD (NEWS 1130) – Rogers Hometown Hockey is coming through the Lower Mainland once again this weekend with a stop in Abbotsford, and organizers are focusing on bringing attention to how diverse the game has become in recent years.
From little girls and boys lacing up the skates, to immigrants who’ve been swept up in the excitement of the sport upon arriving in Canada – the game seems to be growing in popularity.
Hometown Hockey’s Ron MacLean says ever since he started hosting the show, he’s also noticed a huge following of women who play the game and he thinks we could see a woman back in the NHL very soon.
“I don’t think there’s a physical deterrent anymore and, again, I just see men and woman co-existing in sport in such a great way and part of it is that training we’re getting through the bantam and midget programs whether it’s in the Lower Mainland or right across the country. So, why not?”
“I had no idea bantam and midget women’s hockey had attained that level of skill. It’s very impressive and that’s something I’ve really learned to appreciate that the girls hockey at the bantam and midget levels are off the charts right now in terms of skill.”
This weekend you’ll have a chance to meet MacLean and Vancouver Canucks alumni Brendan Morrison and Kirk McLean.
Festivities get underway at noon each day at the Abbotsford Exhibition Park.
