Local officials enjoy Mac’s experience

Times Editor

 

The UFA Bisons weren’t the only locals hitting the ice at the 34th Annual Mac’s Midget Hockey Tournament Dec. 26 – Jan. 1.

Two Strathmore officials, Dallas Ducheminsky and Justin Geeraert, were linesmen during the prestigious midget tournament.

Both have been officiating in the Strathmore area for a number of years and were honoured to represent the community at the weeklong event so close to home.

“It’s fun, it was really a good time and I had a blast,” said Ducheminsky. “We used to come watch (this tournament) with my dad all the time, so it’s kind of neat saying I used to watch it as a kid growing up and then come and officiate in it.

“The level of talent at this (event makes it special). When teams come here, they step it up and it brings out the best in all of the players.”

Ducheminsky started officiating when he was 13 years old and for the past five or so years has refereed the Alberta Midget Hockey League and the Alberta Junior Hockey League. This is his third time at the Mac’s Tournament.

According to him, he played hockey until the midget level and stuck with officiating because he wanted to stay involved with the sport.

Now that it is in his blood, he would like to take it as far as he can.

“I want to go as far as I can. I’m kind of getting up in age – I’m 30 now – so they’re looking at the younger guys to move up,” smiled Ducheminsky. “The Western Hockey League (WHL) would be fun, but I’m really happy to be in the AJHL right now.”

The tournament was also a thrill for Geeraert, who first started officiating in his hometown of Rockyford.

“It’s a pretty prestigious tournament to be a part of,” said Geeraert. “I was here last year and got some experience. It’s a good tournament to be a part of – we have a really good group of guys that (officiate) it.

“There are a lot of really good supervisors here and if you put on a good show, it can take you a long ways.

“When you work hard, good things start to happen.”

According to Geeraert, he also has dreams of working in the Western Hockey League. However, the 22-year-old knows working his way up the ladder is the key to success.

As for right now, he is enjoying his time on the ice.

“It’s good to be part of the game, it’s good exercise,” said Geeraert. “Then I’ll try and take it to the next level.”