On Saturday October 8th following our U13A home opener, we had a touching kickoff to the 2023/2024 year, with Coach Mike St. Peter inviting Mike and Sally McLay to be a part of something that is really special for our team this season- the presentation of the Peter McLay hardest worker/player of the game jacket and hat- in honor of their son, and Coach Mikes' former player, Peter McLay. Peter was diagnosed with a childhood cancer at 17 years old and left this world last year, in 2022. Because of who he was on and off the ice- with his smile and incredible work ethic, his infectious personality, positive attitude and friendships with teammates- there is no better former Kingston Canadian to try to work as hard as this season.
Boys, go out and "Play like McLay" Every.Single.Time.
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At this time of Thanksgiving, on behalf of our team, we would like to say thank you to Sally and Mike McLay for your time on Saturday supporting our kids by coming to their game, and most importantly for sharing a little bit about your son and allowing us to honor him this season.
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Now for the words expressed on Saturday evening in front of the McLay family and our players and parents, that Coach Mike prepared and that Peters former coach alongside Mike for the 2011/2012 season, Jim Kenny, contributed to, please have a read:
"Thank you all for coming. I want to say how impressed I am so far this season, as the players on our team are amazing- respectful and willing to learn. Twelve years ago I had the opportunity to coach a young 15 year old with the Kingston Canadians in his Minor Midget year who had a tremendous amount of heart, a true love for the game and an incredible attitude on and off the ice. He loved being around the rink enjoying his time with teammates and he showed up to play at every practice and at every game. He played both forward and defence to the best of his ability at all times. His name was Peter McLay. Peter wore #4. I always remember it, as it was my favourite player, Bobby Orr’s, number. Peter played this game with honor, integrity, a great work ethic and with high standards. He had respect for teammates, coaches, officials, opponents and everyone around him. There is no better young player than Peter to have our kids emulate, to understand the type of person he was on and off the ice, and it is an honor to be honoring him.”
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Congratulations to our first hardest worker of the game recipient- #88 Nathan! Please wear this jacket and hat with pride. These are to never be left on the floor- always hung up at home on the special hanger and when you bring them back with you to the next game, they will be by the door- a reminder to all of the players to go out and play hard. After the game you will be asked to assist coaches in the selection of the next deserving teammate.
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“Play like McLay”
