The Clippers have kicked off their season, and the teams are off to a great start. 

This fall has brought some changes to the program. Notably, the Novice squad has started the season under a new set of rules mandated by Hockey Canada. They will play the whole season on a half-ice surface, playing four on four. On the other half, players will participate in a “development zone,” rotating in and out of the game. 

“The Novice Blue team has started with a 1–1 record,” says Travis Mason of Clipper Ice Sports (CIS). “They are playing well as a team, and have now shaken off the rust.”

After each game, one player is selected to receive Blue and Gold Clippers Hard Hat, a new honour this year to mark the game’s hardest-working player. In the first game of the season, Deklan Billey wore the hat. In the second game, the hat went to Maddex Mason for his strong play. 

“Huge congratulations to the CIS Atom B team, who took home first place in the Atom 10A3 division at the Rob West Tournament that started October 13 and ended October 26,” says Mason. “They came out on top with a huge 5–0 win over St. Vital.” 

Mason notes that three other teams also participated in the Rob West tournament—Atom A, Pee Wee A, and Pee Wee B. Pee Wee B also took first place in their division. 

The Pee Wee teams will host the first tournament in Niverville this year, from November 30 to December 2. The following weekend, the Atom players will host teams from around the province. The third tournament, for Novices, will take place January 25–27. 

“It’s always great to see the community come out and support these players, coaches, and families,” says Mason. “Please feel free to come watch and cheer them on. Admission is free!” 

The tournaments will all feature an opportunity for someone to win a signed used hockey stick from the Winnipeg Jets, as well as 50/50 draws and various prize packages. 

“The CIS Executive would like to thank all coaches and managers for the hard work they have put into making the start of the season so outstanding,” Mason adds. “Without our coaches and managers, we wouldn’t have such a robust program for the youth in our community.” 

In particular, Mason highlights the volunteer efforts of Katie Matula, who is serving as assistant coach of the Pee Wee C team. 

“She helped fill a huge gap by giving up her time and knowledge for the game,” he says. “We’re hoping her involvement will encourage more youth to volunteer with CIS.”