The Edmonton Chimos made a stop in Bonnyville to play their regular season match up against the Strathmore Rockies Sunday. The Chimos won the game 3-1 and local hockey product Jennifer Moe was named the Chimos player of the game.
The game was played in support of the Bonnyville Minor Hockey Association (BMHA), with the Chimos organization donating $5 for each ticket stub received at the door to the BMHA.
Over 450 people were in attendance Sunday afternoon. One of the event organizers Lorne Moe said the turnout was great, and was happy to see events like this benefiting local minor hockey and gaining exposure for competitive women's hockey.
Chimo captain and Olympic gold medallist Meaghan Mikkelson said it's exciting coming to smaller communities to promote women's hockey by playing hockey.
“We're showing younger girls in the community that there is a professional women's league that they can aspire to play in and giving back to the community is always important … I'm happy to be a part of it.”
With Jennifer Moe back playing hockey in Bonnyville, Chimos head coach Jason Schmidt decided to put the underage player in the starting lineup.
“(Moe) is only a midget age player, so she is young, but she has proven herself and deserves to be here,” said Schmidt.
The Chimos got out to a good start against the Rockies, scoring six minutes in on a shot from Kelly Godel.
The Rockies came roaring back with three quick shots, but Chimos goalie Kristin Sugiyama was there to make the stops.
The Chimos added to their lead just as the Rockies penalty was expiring early in the second period, when forward Chelsea Purcell scored to make it 2-0.
The Chimos looked like they had the game in hand, but Strathmore would not give up. After a three on one break for the Chimos, Strathmore countered with a break of their own, only they were able to capitalize, making it 2-1 heading into the third.
The Chimos re-established their two-goal lead on a shot from Lindsay Robinson halfway through the third, and that was all they needed.
After the game, Jennifer Moe received a loud ovation, as she was named player of the game for the Chimos.
“That felt awesome,” said Moe following the game. “I was excited and a little nervous, but it was fun.”
During the game it was announced the 50/50 draw winners were Pontiacs forwards Devon Kalinski and Dante Borrelli. They received $500 for the winning ticket, but rather than keep all the money, the boys donated $400 back to Bonnyville minor hockey.
