Thanks a Million to St. Paul’s School

Kudos to St. Paul’s School

We had everything teed up for Concord’s 12th annual Black Ice Hockey Classic the last weekend in January. Unfortunately, Mother Nature dealt us unseasonably warm weather and more water than ice at White Park.

The hardest part of postponing the tournament (this year’s tourney will be played indoors at Everett Arena the weekend of March 17) was not being able to pull it off for the kids, especially the 7-8 year olds, whose parents bring them from near and far to be a part of the Black Ice experience.

But we’re a community, and it worked out: the young ones were still able to come and play that weekend, because St. Paul’s School graciously stepped up and let us conduct the kids’ tourney at the St. Paul’s rinks on Jan. 28. We hosted 12 teams and 150+ kids and coaches – some making the trip from Cape Cod – for a full day of cross-ice games. It wasn’t outdoors, but in the spirit and tradition of Black Ice – where it began with Hobey Baker – the kids worked on their skating and passing and goal celebrations, with no one keeping score. They headed for home tired, and they had a blast.

We much appreciate the sponsors of the kids’ tourney, Dartmouth Health Children’s and RBC Wealth Management, for helping us put it together, and we offer our heartfelt thanks to St. Paul’s and their athletic director, Dick Muther, for donating their facilities, their time, and the kind assistance of their able and professional staff. The bonds of hockey remain strong, especially here in Concord.

Joe Shoemaker

President 1883 Black Ice Hockey Association

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