DORVAL – The Dorval oldtimers hockey tournament kicked off its 29th year Saturday.
Teams of older players, aged 35 and up, are competing against one another – not just for eternal glory – but also in an effort to raise money for charity.
It’s not quite the NHL, but the dozens of hockey players say they’re ready for some serious playtime.
There are 53 teams from across the west island as well as one team from Quebec City, two from Toronto and one from Maine, USA.
“I’ve been doing this for a few years,” said Brent Pawsey, a team captain.
“It’s a great way to get together with friends.”
Money raised through registration, bar sales and raffle tickets is donated to local charities.
There are four divisions in the tournament.
“Obviously guys in their 60 and 70s don’t like to play two days in a row because they need time to mend,” explained Paul Rastelli, the tournament’s chairman.
Still, he admits once the puck drops, even the oldest of the oldtimers get pretty competitive.
“We play in 35 and over and all of us are over 45 so its getting harder and harder,” said player Don Chapdelaie.
“But it’s always a great tournament.”
Chapdelaie has been playing in the tournament for the last twelve years.
“The hockey’s always fun but it’s more about being with your friends,” he told Global News.
“Charity, guys and at this point in our career it’s all about the beer!”
Some players had their children come to cheer them on, while others had their fathers – and even their wives – sitting in the stands to support them.
Last year, the tournament raise over $30,000 for charity and organizers are hoping to beat that amount this time around.
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