Vernon

Photo: Amy Jackson-Shelling

Oldtimers hockey action from Wesbild Centre in Vernon this week.

Hockey players from across North America converged upon Vernon this week for the 16th annual Oldtimer’s Hockey Jamboree. 

This year, 140 players from across North America made up twelve teams in three age categories: Rookies (55-65), The Classics (65-74), and The Legends (74+).

Players from as far away as New Jersey, Wisconsin, California, and Manitoba joined local residents for four days of hockey and social gatherings.

The tournament, which started on Monday, runs until Oct. 4 at the Wesbild Centre.

“I’d like a lot more local (players)," said Mike Todd, the longtime organizer of the Jamboree. "There are a lot of Saskatoon players that come. They enjoy the fall here. They make it into a holiday.”

“Every year I say it’s going to be the last. Then they (the players) get all concerned and tell me it’s the best tournament there is.” But Todd says there will be a next year despite the amount of effort required to organize the event.

All money raised goes back into the Jamboree, and any leftover money is donated to NONA (North Okanagan Neurological Association). Village Green Hotel is also donating $3 per player per night to NONA, which raises approximately $400 to $500 annually.

“It’s oldtimers hockey, so no slap shots, no body checking, no fighting,” explained Todd.

“Luckily, there haven’t been any serious injuries ever. A lot of it is camaraderie.”

“This is my second year here. I really enjoy it,” said Albertan Rick McGlowe. “I like the idea you don’t come with a team, that you come by yourself. You get put on a team. A very neat idea.”

“We’ve been kibitzing with some of the lady fans, and they’ve been talking provocatively and we’ve been getting quite a chuckle out of that. For the most part, I’ve enjoyed everything. I like Vernon. I like the idea you can even camp in the parking lot. That’s excellent.”

Registration forms for next year will be available at the tournament website in May 2013.