Smiles, Goals, and Celebrations: Highlights from the 2023 COMBHL Banquet

The 2023 COMBHL (Cornwall Optimist Minor Ball Hockey League) wrapped up the 2023 season with their first annual banquet this past Friday, June 30th. Supported by the Optimist Club of Cornwall. Over 188 players and family attended the BBQ meal, which offered fresh cut French fries, burgers, and hot dogs where on the menu. For dessert, amazing cupcakes ordered from Cupcakes for CTC by Isabelle were served.

The evening was filled with smiles as trophies and awards were presented to deserving players. In the U9 division, Team Vipers emerged as the winners, with Team Express as the runner-up. In the U12 division, Team Fuel claimed victory, while Team Spitfires took the runner-up position. The U15 category saw Team Millionaires as the winners, with Team Thrashers as the runner-up.

Apart from the team awards, individual players were honored with a range of accolades, including Most Improved Player, Best Teammate, and the prestigious Hot Stick award for each of the three divisions. The players and their families thoroughly enjoyed the event, and COMBHL President, Archambault, expressed satisfaction with the pleasant surprises that accompanied the awards. As a departure from the traditional trophy, Archambault commissioned local artist James Lapierre to create unique caricatures of the Hot Stick winners (players with the most goals this season) and the Presidents Choice award recipient. (pictured above)

This year’s tournament took place on June 24th. With approximately 135 players participating in the COMBHL this season, the league aims to increase its numbers in 2024. Archambault emphasized that COMBHL offers a fun and affordable opportunity for anyone to play, regardless of their previous experience with a hockey stick. Registration for the 2024 season will open in January next year, promising another exciting year of ball hockey.

For more information, visit the website at https://combhl.org/