ESTEVAN - The Estevan Minor Hockey Association’s (EMHA) annual U18 house tournament opened Friday with a couple of tributes.
The tournament is known as the Aaron Lavoie Memorial Tournament, and will feature games Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Affinity Place, the Power Dodge Arena and the Bienfait Memorial Arena.
Prior to Friday night’s game between the Estevan Bears and the Swift Current Knights at Affinity Place, Lavoie’s father Gary and brother Jordan dropped the puck for the ceremonial faceoff. Then Burt Blondeau, who is the EMHA’s U18 director, made a presentation to Gary and Jordan Lavoie.
This marks the second time the U18 house tournament has been held in memory of Aaron Lavoie. He died in February 2019 at the age of 16.
Prior to the puck drop, it was noted that Aaron Lavoie loved the game of hockey. He worked hard, and played with heart and determination. Tournament organizers hope the athletes in this year’s tournament will bring the same attributes. It’s also hoped the players will make some new friends.
Next week’s edition of the Mercury will have a recap on the tournament.
