STANSTEAD: The Border Minor Hockey League plays a very important role in the sports scene in Stanstead. Now that the Pat Burns Arena is operational, there is an added incentive for parents, town officials and hockey fans of all ages to build on the proud reputation of previous years. There have been several raffles and smaller fundraisers but, with rising costs of registration etc, the League could benefit from extra funding. Councillor Guy Ouellet was pleased to announce at the August council meeting that the Champlain Cougars have agreed to put on a special match at the Pat Burns Arena, on August 23, to benefit the Border Minor Hockey League. The Cougars will be playing against the Granby team. Should be quite a match!

It is also of particular interest that the recently named Head Coach of the Cougars is former NHL player Pascal Rhéaume. After having played for the LHJMQ and the LAH, himself, Pascal Rhéaume earned the Stanley Cup with the New Jersey Devils in the NHL in 2003. Hockey has always been a part of his life and this is his way of giving back for all the support that he received while playing for the AAA league. Through his own experience as a hockey player and trainer, Pascal developed into a team player and a strong hockey enthusiast. This is why Pascal is being viewed by many to be the perfect fit for Head Coach of the Champlain Cougars. As many of you already know, numerous players in this AAA league have gone on to become members of professional leagues.

Former Stanstead College Spartan goalie Shawn Ouellet (Stanstead) is now attending Champlain College and will be guarding the net for the Champlain Cougars. Prior to that, this determined and dedicated young hockey player was in goal for another team in the same AAA league. 

Anyone wanting tickets ($5 /adults; $3 /18 years & under) should contact Guy Ouellet (819-876-2621) or Brad Crawford (819-876-5615).

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DANY FLANDERS SUPPORTS BORDER MINOR HOCKEY

On September 14, hometown boy and La Voix finalist Dany Flanders has agreed to put on a special benefit concert for the Border Minor Hockey League. The venue will be the Pat Burns Arena, beginning at 7p.m. Lise Flanders will also be on hand to entertain the crowd, prior to Dany’s performance. Tickets ($5) may be purchased through any member of the Border Minor Hockey League (Emily Veilleux (819-876-2177), David Dubois (819-876-7606) or Jody Chamberlain (819-876-7635) or any of the members of the Board of the Border Minor Hockey.

The Border Minor Hockey League is always looking for new ways of raising funds not only to pay increasingly rising Minor Hockey League registration costs but also to help the numerous boys and girls who would like to play hockey but whose parents feel unable to pay the cost of registration and equipment.

The Border Minor Hockey League appreciates your continued support at fundraising events and coming out to see the teams play.