Let the Season Begin

Yes, it’s true, the 2016 Shamrock season is getting under way with a Jr. Shamrocks exhibition game and the annual John Crowther Memorial game featuring Shamrock alumni as well as up and coming Shamrock hopefuls.

First up, the Jr. Shamrocks will travel to the Fuller Lake Arena for an exhibition game against the Jr. Nanaimo Timbermen on Wednesday, April 20. This is always an entertaining contest and gives both coaching staffs a chance to have a look at some as yet-unsigned talent as well as those players who have signed cards. Game time is 7:00 pm.

On Friday, April 22 a group of former Shamrock greats will take on some potential future Shamrock stars in the John Crowther Memorial game. The Rocks Old Stars will take on a midget team, the Intermediate Shamrocks and the Jr. Shamrocks each for one period at the Q Centre. Last year the turnout was excellent and we are hoping for the same this year. Game time is 7:00 pm

For those unfamiliar with the John Crowther story, he was a promising multi-sport athlete, particularly known for leading the Shamrocks to a Mann Cup in 1983, earning MVP honours . Unfortunately his life was tragically and violently cut short when he was shot and killed in 1984 at the age of 22. He was very popular both as a teammate and also as a coach and teacher. His mother Betty Crowther will be in attendance to perform the opening faceoff. Proceeds from the game benefit the Shamrocks Alumni Association and their various scholarships and other charitable works.

The Intermediate Shamrocks get their regular season under way for real on Saturday, April 23 at the Q Centre – they will be taking on the Port Coquitlam Saints at 1:30 pm.

The Jr. Shamrocks begin their regular season on April 30 at the Q Centre when the Delta Islanders come calling for a 5:00 contest.

- Janice Huckin