Solid Ground Concrete
Congratulations to Jeff Rouse and Solid Ground Concrete for their fourth Championship in a row.
Pictured is Tom Hall, Billy Killbreath, Brian Byarski, Dalton Collins, Jeff Rouse, Rory Sayers, Rich Clark, Dwight Hicks, Mike “Eddie” Edwards, Chris Christianson, John Hall, Jake Schloegl, Tim Johnson
Gooners dogs
Gooners Dogs made it to the finals this season but weren’t able to get past Dalton in net.
Pictured is Jeff McKenna, Mike Davis, Mike Williams, John Raymond, Matt Dube, Keven Coombe, Jeff Weiler, Tom Bruton, Josh French, Nick Calugaru, Denny Langworthy, Kyle WIlson and Steve Malenich
Eclectic Hockey League Update & Personal Announcement
A Decade of Eclectic Hockey: Looking Back & Forward
Another great season of ice hockey is in the books, marking the tenth anniversary since the Eclectic Hockey League was born. What began in 2015 as a response to poor scheduling and lack of championship recognition in the Tin League has evolved into something truly special. When Bobby Kurtz, Mike Hartwig, Darren Newton, and I partnered with Crystal Fieldhouse to create a four-team Sunday morning league, little did we know how it would grow and thrive over the next decade.
2024/25 Season Highlights
This year featured six competitive teams, continuing our tradition of balanced competition:
- Gooners Dogs (league veterans since 2017) advanced to the championship by defeating Frozen Wings (with us since 2018), led by Ty Burt and his elite squad
- Solid Ground Concrete, under Jeff Rouse’s leadership, continued their dominance since joining us in 2019
- Marauders, capably managed by Eric Schauwecker, fell to Solid Ground in a hard-fought playoff game
- Misfits, our newest assembled team under Josh Peters, brought enthusiasm despite facing challenges
- Budtenders, now run by Gerald Edwards after I stepped back from team management, added several talented Kersley players from the former 40A league and is showing promise. They especially excel in Skaters Bar after the game.
The championship showdown between Gooners and Solid Ground perfectly capped our tenth season, showcasing just how far we’ve come in competitive balance and skill level.
League Evolution & Future Direction
The level of play continues to improve each season, particularly as we’ve welcomed more skilled players from the former 40A league. This talent influx ensures next season will be even more competitive and exciting.
While we have had up to twelve teams in our league in the past. Ice time is at a premium going forward and we will likely stay at six teams of 40 plus.
Over these ten years, the hockey community has been my foundation. The friendships formed through our shared love of the game are important.
Personal Announcement
After careful consideration, I’ve decided it’s time for me to step back from running the league. Rising operational costs have already required eliminating the additional help I once employed, and as my other business priorities increase, I need to reallocate my time.
What’s Next: I’m meeting with the rink management and Darryl this Wednesday to discuss transition plans. My goal is to ensure the league continues to thrive under new leadership while maintaining the competitive spirit and camaraderie we’ve built over the past decade.
While I won’t be handling league operations, you’ll still see me at the rink 2-3 times weekly, enjoying the game we all love. I look forward to focusing on playing rather than organizing. I’m organizing a 60+ Tournament team and look forward to enjoying some “old school” travel hockey.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has made these ten seasons so memorable. Your passion, sportsmanship, and friendship have made every early morning and late night worth it.
Keep your head up and stick on the ice!
Dave Crabill
Commissioner
Opportunities To Skate
Keep Those Legs Moving! Pre-Tournament Conditioning Sessions
Don’t let your skills get rusty before the Alumni and Oldtimers Tournaments! I’ve secured prime ice time throughout March for some high-quality 40+ drop-in sessions that will keep your legs fresh and your hands sharp.
MARCH SCHEDULE:
| FRIDAYS (EVENING) | SUNDAYS (MORNING) |
|---|---|
| March 14th – 8:30 PM | March 16th – 10:30 AM |
| March 21st – 7:30 PM | March 23rd – 10:45 AM |
| March 28th – 7:30 PM | March 30th – 10:30 AM |
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- Competitive but friendly 40+ play
- Balanced teams using Perfect Skate system
- Full ice with goalies
- Post-skate refreshments available (it’s called “Gears BEER” for a reason!)
- Limited spots to ensure quality ice time
HOW TO REGISTER:
OPTION 1: PERFECT SKATE APP (PREFERRED)
- Visit app.perfectskate.com
- Join the “40+ Gears Beer Private List”
- Text Dave to let him know you’ve registered
- Once approved you Book and Unbook your ice time.
OPTION 2: Concierge Service
If the app seems challenging, simply click here to join our hockey list with your specifics, and I’ll personally help get you set up.
QUESTIONS?
Text me directly with any questions about these sessions or the upcoming tournaments. Looking forward to seeing everyone on the ice!
Remember: These sessions fill up quickly, so register early to guarantee your spot!
Dave 810-471-7767
