The Clearwater Hosers just wrapped up a season that could best be described as a master class in hockey camaraderie, teamwork, and old-school Canadian determination. From the first puck drop to the final buzzer, this ragtag group of passionate players was transformed into a well-oiled machine, on and off the ice, thanks to an incredible mix of effort, enthusiasm, and good-hearted fun.
Building a team, one pass at a time
Hockey is nothing without a team, and this season saw the Clearwater Hosers build something special. With every player pitching in, whether with a slick tape-to-tape pass or a donation to keep things running, this wasn’t just a team; it was a family. Thanks to our organized efforts, every game had solid net minders ready to rob breakaways and stonewall slap shots.
Referees also stepped up for many games, making sure the action stayed fair but competitive, and our dedicated time- and scorekeepers were there for special match-ups, keeping track of the game (and, let’s be honest, who was out of breath first).
An executive vision for the future
A huge leap forward this year was the formation of an executive team, ensuring that the Clearwater Hosers weren’t just a collection of shinny players but a true, organized force in local hockey. With the creation of a set of team rules, we now have a framework that ensures fairness, fun, and continued participation for all.
To keep the off-ice energy just as strong as our on-ice chemistry, we launched a team website and Facebook page and created fun news stories on players. These platforms became a hub for everything from game schedules to lighthearted chirps, helping build an information community that was just as tight-knit as the one in the locker room.
New look, same grit
What’s a great team without a great look? This year, the Clearwater Hosers unveiled brand-new team sweaters and a fresh logo, giving us not just a uniform but an identity. Whether winning, losing, or just out there getting a good skate in, we looked like a true team, and we played like one, too.
Hockey for life: a vision beyond the game
While we love the thrill of the game, the vision is about something bigger: sustained physical and mental health well into our later years through exertion, fun, and camaraderie. Hockey isn’t just a sport for us; it’s a way to stay active, social, and sharp. The bond between players, the laughter in the dressing room, and the satisfaction of a well-played shift all contribute to a healthier, happier life.
A community effort: the people who made it possible
Hockey doesn’t happen without heart, and this season wouldn’t have been possible without some incredibly generous people. Celine Jaillet, Madison Schon, Rachael Elliot, and Kim Pendergast all donated their time and effort, helping to make the Clearwater Hosers not just a team, but a smoothly running community.
And of special mention, a massive thank you to John and Katt Renaud of J&K Creations and Wadlegger Logging and Construction for their generous financial contributions. Their support is setting the stage for something truly special next season, helping us create a new level of legacy for years to come.
Looking ahead: facing challenges, building a legacy
As we gear up for next season, the Clearwater Hosers are not just skating forward, we’re gearing up for a serious challenge from two fronts. With competing groups making moves to pull players from our weekly games and even eyeing our time slots, the battle isn’t just on the ice anymore. If this season has shown us anything, it’s that the Hosers are built on loyalty, community, and a love for the game that runs deeper than just a weekly skate.
Rather than backing down, we see this as an opportunity. Challenges create champions, and next season we’ll double down on what makes us unique, our commitment to each other, our focus on fun, and our dedication to keeping hockey accessible, welcoming, and truly ours. With the strength of our players, the support of our community, and the foundation we’ve built this season, the Clearwater Hosers will not only hold our ground, we’ll also thrive.
Clearwater Hosers seniors hockey: Because we are "Still in the game!"
