Giving back to the next generation

Times Editor

 

The UFA Bisons scored a major win this weekend, and it had nothing to do with their on-ice product.

The local triple-A midget team hosted the 11th annual Christmas Shopping with the Bisons Dec. 11 at Strathmore’s Calgary Co-op.

The team helped children of single-parent homes select gifts for their loved ones and assisted in wrapping the presents.

“It’s a two part thing; one, the giving back to the community and two, it’s all part of the learning (curve) for the players,” said UFA Bisons General Manager Neil Glionna. “We hear this back from WHL scouts, scouts from the university in the States – they appreciate the fact that we teach the players not just on ice, but off the ice as well. 

“I still have players that have graduated (from our program) five years ago that when I see them, they still bring it up ‘do you still do the Christmas Shopping? That was awesome.’

“They remember it and that’s all part of the program.”

According to Bisons head coach Jeremy Friesen, it’s a thrill for the team to be involved in such a great event.

“This is great. It’s a chance to give back to the community … and it’s a great opportunity for our kids too,” said Friesen. “It’s kind of a humbling experience – I think (our kids) are pretty grateful for what they have and where they are at. “Anytime they can share some of that experience with somebody half their age, that’s a great opportunity.

“(If these guys move on to junior) it is not an ask, it’s a requirement that is demanded. We try and instill that in our guys … when you represent the program, you have responsibility to take time out of your day to give back to the community and do your part.”

According to Glionna, when the team first put this event together, the initial thought was to approach businesses in the community to jump on board. However, once they made contact with Co-op, the local grocery store took the bison by the horns.

“I have to be honest with you, this is a wonderful event – we’re really happy to have the opportunity to be involved with it,” said Jay Phypers, Centre Manager for Strathmore’s Calgary Co-op. “It is really well received, our staff really enjoy doing it, it is well received in the community and the kid’s faces smiling – you can’t beat that.

“Half of the time, the smiles on the player’s faces is bigger than the kid’s faces – really it’s a win-win for everybody. We like to be involved in the community.”

While all the players are elite midget level competitors, the same can’t be said for their gift-wrapping abilities.

“Funny enough, our goaltender is the only one so far to drop a present and break it,” laughed Friesen. “It’s funny how that works. It has been entertaining for sure.”