LETHBRIDGE – Gordon Hunter is a hockey fanatic. He has read books on all the games legends, but noticed a gaping hole in reading material when it comes to the other side of the sport.
“There’s a lot of books about hockey players that have really gone a long way – NHL, minor pro and so forth,” said Hunter. “But there’s no books about, quite frankly, the normal folks.”
So Hunter, a University of Lethbridge professor, set out to change that. The result is “The Older I Get, The Better I Was,” a collection of stories from more than 30 prominent southern Albertans. The authors include some who made the NHL, including Vic Stasiuk and Mikko Makela, but the heart of the book comes from the stories of politicians, teachers, doctors, media members, and many more who never made a living from hockey, but still felt the impact of the game on their lives.
“That’s what I was more into, is ‘ya, sure, tell me about your hockey and your hockey experiences, but also what does that mean to you as a team player?'” said Hunter.
Hockey has played such a large role in the life of Hunter and his family that he wanted his book to help others experience the same joy. So, $10 from the sale of every copy will go directly to KidSport, an organization that helps under-privileged youth be able to afford organized sport.
One of the books contributors, U of L professor Bernie Williams, says he’s seen first hand the effect KidSport can have. “I’ve been involved in both hockey and lacrosse as a coach and a ref and an administrator,” said Williams. “And, over the years I’ve seen many kids benefit from it, as a coach I’ve coached a number of kids who wouldn’t be playing if it wasn’t for KidSport.”
Hunter hopes through his book, others will find the same love for the game that he has in his life. “When I’m reading the chapters I’m either laughing or crying. They’re really good, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading them.”
The book is available through the U of L book store, in person or online by clicking here.
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