It was rural versus urban in the 2017 Bantam AA All-Star Game, and this year, the rural team came out on top. The R.J. Lalonde Arena was host to some of the best players the Alberta Bantam Hockey League has to offer, and on Saturday, Dec.
It was rural versus urban in the 2017 Bantam AA All-Star Game, and this year, the rural team came out on top.
The R.J. Lalonde Arena was host to some of the best players the Alberta Bantam Hockey League has to offer, and on Saturday, Dec. 16, they proved their skills with a 4-1 final in favour of the rural team.
The best players of each team are selected to take part in the all-star game every year. This year's team was made up of players from across the province, including seven Lakeland Panthers.
"It was great to play with some friends of mine and beat some chirpy city kids," said Emmet Croteau.
The 14-year-old Bonnyville goalie was selected by the league to play in the all-star game because of his standings in the league.
Tyler Blocha, a right-winger also from Bonnyville, was nominated by his teammates to fill one of the spots.
"Each player gets a ballot, and it has all of the players' names. They have to pick one forward and one defence to get nominated," he said. "It's pretty cool to be nominated and chosen by your fellow players, because your teammates see all of the potential in you and all of the stuff you bring to the team."
This was the first year either of them has played in the all-star game.
Croteau highlighted one of his saves as a peak moment in the game, while Blocha reflected on his goal early on and at the tailend of the final period.
Overall, both of the young players agreed that the best part was beating the urban team.
"Before the game we were running past them on dry land and they were chirping us. We didn't say anything, but we carried it onto the ice and it felt really good to beat them," Croteau expressed.
Chad Emigh, assistant coach of the all-star team and the Lakeland Panthers, said the game is a good way to show-off a player's talent, and recognize all of the hard work they have put in.
There were four Bonnyville players, one from Cold Lake, one from Lac La Biche, and finally, one from Mallaig, all of whom play for the Panthers throughout the season.
The rest of the team was made-up of kids from across the province all coming from rural areas.
"It's recognition for all of the kids that have had a great year. Lots of times you're not recognized if you're part of a team, especially if you're a part of a team that might not be having that success throughout the year. This gives them the opportunity to shine a little bit," said Emigh.
