The Norwell Redmen Varsity Hockey Club has begun the District 10 season.
The Redmen are part of a 12-team league including teams from Wellington and Dufferin County high schools. In addition to the 12-game regular season, the Redmen will play in four tournaments between now and early February. Officials state this year’s team features a solid combination of returning players and a good crop of rookies who hope to improve as the season progresses.
The team is preparing to host the 20th Annual Redmen Invitational Tournament Nov. 27 and 28. Organizers note the tournament will feature 18 teams from across southwestern Ontario and will give local fans a great chance to see some excellent high school hockey.
Games will be played in Palmerston, Harriston, Drayton and Listowel over the two days. The Redmen will play games on Wednesday in Palmerston at 9am versus Cameron Heights from Kitchener, at 2pm vs. Waterdown, and 5:45pm vs. Sir Frederick Banting from London.
Championship and consolation playoffs begin Thursday morning, with the championship game set for 4:30pm in Palmerston.
In total, the tournament will include nearly 40 games and will attract many people to the North Wellington community.
“The school and hockey team are extremely grateful to all businesses and patrons who have contributed financially to the tournament,” team officials state, adding, “Without your support, student activities and athletics at Norwell would be difficult to run.”
Anyone who would still like to contribute to the tournament as a sponsor should contact the school and speak with Mark Israel at 519-343-3107 ext 427. Sponsorship can be in one of two levels: a gold sponsor for $50 and silver sponsor for $25. Tax receipts will be issued.
“The highlight of the season” will come when the Redmen travel to Windsor in mid-December to compete in an elite tournament of 12 teams from southwestern Ontario. The team will also be attending an NHL game in Detroit to enhance the experience.
“We hope the Redmen will continue to represent the area with class and determination in our quest to return to CWOSSA regionals in March and then on to the OFSAA provincial championships,” team officials state.
