Leafs Hockey alumni game a success!

Add this to the list of things learned over the weekend: Alumni can still skate.

“It was just a fun weekend,” Coach Will Fay said, while watching recent Leafs  alumni play. Nearly 20 players, including four who will play collegiate hockey this season, showed up for the event.

“That’s a great feeling to see people here,” Fay added. “Everyone has busy schedules and lots of commitments. Guys traveled from all over.”

Eric Wizniewski, flew to Laconia from Philadelphia, in the midst of his Bantam coaching duties (his team won 7-1 during his departure).   Former assistant coach, Jimmy Mathews, made the flight from Florida, and many others traveled long distances to visit with friends & staff.

One alumni, Matt Clemente, said he wouldn’t miss the alumni game.  “I get a special feeling. Every time I drive here, it brings back tremendous memories.”

Former player, and current Leafs assistant coach Matt McGilvray mentioned "It was great to get a chance to reconnect with some old teammates, and meet some new faces.  Also, hearing the old stories certainly brought back some great memories, and I look forward to next year".

Andrew Trimble, former Leaf and organizer of the event said seeing former teammates, family & friends, is the highlight of his year.

“I get chills every time I come to town,” he said. “If I could live here, I would. Once you come (to Laconia), you immediately develop an allegiance here.”

While the alumni weekend is a fun time for recent players to get together, it also provides a good reason for the older guys keep working out - as well as a chance for coach Fay to get off the bench.

“I think I need to get in the gym, but I think it’s a great way to connect,” Fay said. “It’s nice to see the guys come participate, and I hope this becomes an annual event. Hats off to Andy Trimble for getting this together.”