THUNDER BAY - It may have looked like just another practice, but for a group of local elementary school students, there was a lot more fun being had on the ice thanks to lessons from some unique mentors.
On Wednesday, students from St. Francis School took part in skating and skills lessons with members of the Thunder Bay North Stars and Junior B team players.
The practice was in its fourth and final week and was part of the winter elective program at the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board.
“It’s mainly just have fun and working their hockey skills,” said North Stars assistant coach, Rob Degagne. “I know there are a lot of hockey players in the city and just come out and have some fun. They get a lot of coaching during the week so we like to take a lighter approach and it’s always good to have some older kids and older players they might look up to out there with you.”
Matthew Caruso of the Fighting Walleye and Lucas Sandberg of the Northern Hawks took he kids had an drills to work on skills like skating, moving the puck up the ice, and how to handle the puck behind the net.
“Its fun, I really enjoy it,” said William Seaberg, who is in grade 6. “I’m learning passing and little tips on how to shoot better.”
Most kids are already hockey players and the elective program provided a good opportunity to work on skills they have already been practicing.
“It’s been amazing,” said grade 4 student, Nolan Copetti. “I usually do stuff like this in practice, but it is super fun.”
“I think they are really enjoying it,” added Degagne. “They come and are eager to go. They are quick to get their skates on and get out on the ice and they are having a good time.”
And it doesn’t hurt that the young players are learning skills from some of the best players in the city.
“It’s pretty important,” William said. “They know what they’re doing.”
