Ringette Association wins provincial award

The West Ferris Ringette Association came away with two very prestigious awards at the Ontario Ringette Association Annual General Meeting in Mississauga this past weekend (May 28-29).

The first award was won by Kelsey Lecappelain, who was named the 2005 Provincial Goaltender of the Year, which is awarded annually to one goalie from across the province who competes at the A or AA level. In the past 6 seasons, Kelsey has backstopped her teams to 2 silver medals and 3 gold medals at the Provincial A championships. In the 2005 season, she lead the team to a 15-1 record in tournament play, holding a 1.80 Goals Against Average in these tournaments and winning a silver medal at the 2005 Provincials. The award announcement also mentioned how she is well respected by teammates as well as opponents, and how she gives her time to help develop younger goalies in her home association.

"This award is well deserved. Kelsey sets a fine example for all goalies in the province," said Northeastern Ontario Ringette President Harry Hirsimaki when announcing the award.

The second award was presented to the West Ferris Ringette Association (WFRA), recognizing the entire association as Provincial Association of the Year for 2005. This was awarded to WFRA for its exceptional work in publicizing and promoting ringette in the community, having more than doubled the number of active players from 105 players in 2000 to 228 players in 2005. West Ferris President Jeff Francom was thrilled with the award.

"Ontario Ringette specifically recognized the efforts of West Ferris Ringette to provide a fun family environment in its activities, mentioning how we not only encourage a 'fun with friends' atmosphere but how we actively make it happen in our house league activities. I am very proud of all our volunteers, coaches, officials and executive members who have worked so hard for ringette in North Bay over the years - this is their achievement," said Francom.

Submitted to BayToday.ca