Tourney action keeps fans coming back

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The Moccasin Hockey Tournament has a long history in the Nicola Valley, 36 years in fact. This year's full-contact tournament was held Feb. 12 and 13, with eight teams suiting up for a shot at the $2,800 prize money.

Ashcroft was the victor in an 8-3 final against Alkali Lake from the Caribou. Shuswap's Chase Blades came in third, and the local club Quilchena Braves came fourth.

"Overall it was a successful, good function," said tournament co-ordinator Duane Tom.

"The fans really enjoyed exciting hockey." He said the tournament averaged about 500 fans each day.

Tom has been helping to organize the tournament for the past 20 years, and has played in the event up until about six years ago.

"It's hard trying to run it and try and play in it," he said. Besides, "The old bones can't take those crushing hits."

It's unusual for full-contact hockey to be played in a recreational tournament, and could explain the lower than average number of teams putting up the $700 entrance fee to take part this year.

"It has presented some challenges, he said. "We certainly are all aware that safety is a big concern. We don't want anybody getting injured. At the same time we want it to be competitive. We try to get consistent prize money to make it attractive for people to come participate."

The tournament has attracted big names in the past. Last year's winner was a Hazleton team with former NHLer Gino Odjig in the line-up. They beat out a team from Morley in southern Alberta, Tom said.