by Murray Link
The North Dundas Senior Rockets celebrated twice on the Nov 18th weekend. On the ice, the unbeaten Rockets won their closest game of the year with a 5-4 victory over the South Grenville Rangers. Off the ice, the team was able to accumulate donations for the North Dundas Christmas Fund.
The Saturday afternoon game was a tight fast paced match with only one penalty recorded the whole afternoon. The Rockets found themselves down 2-0 at the halfway point of the game. “We tend not to panic when we are down” said head coach Rob Sadler when asked about trailing after the halfway point. “We have so much depth and experience that our team can persevere even when we are behind”
The latter part of the second period saw the momentum shift as the Rockets rallied with 3 consecutive goals by Brett Gustavsen, Tanner Williams and Dean Byvelds to make it 3-2 for the Rockets with one period to go. The third period saw each team adding two goals apiece to make it a 5-4 final in favour of the home team. Final shots on goal were 36 for the Rockets and 26 for South Grenville.
Off the ice, the Rockets were winners as well. The team donated all proceeds of the ticket sales for the $25,000 shootout to the North Dundas Christmas Fund. The North Dundas Christmas Fund assists local residents who may need a little help. Funds help to provide individuals and families who reside in the Township of North Dundas with seasonal Christmas meals, gifts and snowsuits for children 13 years of age and under. Also, in lieu of ticket revenue (1 for $5.00 or 3 for $10.00) at the Nov 18th game, fans were able to bring non-perishable food items and receive a shootout ticket, or bring in a toy and receive 5 tickets. “The support for the Christmas fund initiative was above and beyond what we expected” exclaimed Sadler. “We as a team wanted to give back to the community that has supported us so much”
Fans will have another chance to participate in the North Dundas Christmas fund initiative at the next Rockets home game. On Dec 9th at 3:30, the Rockets will be taking on the very strong South Stormont Mustangs. Once again, all proceeds from the $25,000 shootout will be donated to the North Dundas Christmas Fund. Fans will also be given one ticket for the shootout for every non-perishable food item that is donated or 5 tickets for every toy.
To keep up with the scores, stats and news regarding the North Dundas Senior Rocktets, visit our Facebook page and hit follow. Don’t miss the next home game Dec 9th at 3:30 as the South Stormont Mustangs are in town. Question is: ARE YOU GOING TO THE GAME?
