Strathmore Minor Ringette hosts annual tournament

By Melissa Piche Times Contributor

Strathmore Minor Ringette Association (SMRA) is celebrating a successful season, filled with growth, teamwork, and a strong focus on keeping kids engaged in the sport. 

Martin Croft, SMRA President, shared highlights so far this season and the excitement for the upcoming Laurie Morton Ruppe Memorial Tournament.

“It’s had its ups and downs. Thankfully there’s been a little more ups,” said Croft of the six SMRA teams and five RISE (Rockyford, Indus, Strathmore Extreme) teams this year. 

He said the goal of the association is to keep the sport competitive, while fostering a goal to keep kids in sports.  

Croft said one possible reason for a lower-than-expected number of players this year could be the hockey program that has been developing over the last few years here in Strathmore. 

“The good news is we’ve had a lot of younger sign-ups … so the future is looking a little bit brighter now, which is good,” said Croft. 

There will be a Come Try Ringette event on Sunday, March 16, from 2:15 p.m. to 3:15pm at the Strathmore Family Centre.

Croft said that with the younger age groups growing with new faces, the volunteer base has also increased. 

“It’s refreshing to see some new parents,” said Croft. “We have some new board members that came this season. Fresh ideas and some eagerness to that as well.” 

As many people know, the Rockyford rink unfortunately had an unforeseen incident related to the heating system which caused many local groups to have to find ice elsewhere. Luckily the rink wasn’t closed for long and is back up and running. 

“We did lose some ice this year, which we are hoping to get back – we lost some ice (time) in Rockyford,” he said. “We’re … working with the other associations and the other arenas (so) we’ve been able to supplement our teams to make sure everybody has the same amount of ice that we typically have.”  

Croft said one thing he is extremely pleased with is the association’s willingness to listen to its members at open house meetings. 

“I think it was good for the members, and it was good for us (the SMRA board) to try and listen and hear what everybody thinks and try to make the best decisions that we can for everyone,” said Croft.

This year the association was fortunate enough to be able to buy full goalie gear for three separate teams including pads, gloves and helmets.

“For the first time since I’ve been on the board, we’ve bought new goalie equipment for our younger goalies to try to entice them,” he said.

Upcoming tournament

SMRA will host the highly-anticipated Laurie Morton Ruppe Memorial Tournament with games both here in Strathmore and Rockyford from Jan. 24-26. This annual event honours the legacy of Laurie Morton Ruppe and her contributions to the ringette community. The tournament will be hosting an Open A division which is sure to be a crowd pleaser. 

The tournament will feature exciting games, family-friendly activities, and fundraising opportunities, including 50/50 draws, silent auction tables, and other fun prizes. Croft encouraged everyone to attend. 

Croft wants to offer an open invitation to the community to come and watch some top-level ringette while supporting the community. He said that the teams can’t wait to showcase their talent and dedication.

As SMRA wraps up another memorable season, their focus remains on fostering a love for the sport and creating opportunities for youth to grow both on and off the ice.