Lorne Akins students are collecting food this month in preparation for their upcoming student/teacher hockey game on Dec. 22.
The Lorne Akins student/teacher hockey game dates back to the 1970s when staff faced off against students at the Braeside outdoor rink as part of the school’s winter carnival, writes sports historian Jeff Hansen. Its modern charitable version started in 2005. Today, students are challenged to donate to the food bank to get entries into draws for prizes and spots on the student team.
As has been the case since the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s game will be held in the school’s gym instead of on ice, in part to let more students participate, said principal Derek Herman. New t sthis year is a student/teacher soccer game for those who prefer bicycle kicks over slapshots. Teachers will also be giving out golden tickets for outstanding behaviour that students can cash in for a guaranteed spot in either game.
Herman said the student/teacher game was all about teaching students to help their community. The school hoped to fill a pickup truck with donations this year.
“It’s anyone’s game,” Herman said, when asked who he thought would win this year’s matchups, adding the teachers have been on a bit of a winning streak in recent years.
“Hopefully, our experience will tip the scales in our favour.”
Donations to the food bank can be left under the tree in the Lorne Akins atrium or in food bank donation boxes throughout St. Albert. Questions on the Akins student/teacher game should go to the school at 780-460-3728.
