Huff & Puff

About

Our organisation started in 1985 as a   Recreational hockey league for London’s senior adults (Fifty-five   and over). We now have THREE divisions TO ACCOMMODATE DIFFERENT LEVELS OF PLAY. 

Teams

Schedules

History

November of 1985 saw the beginning of a senior hockey league which over the next few years was to mushroom into the present day Huff N’ Puff Fitness Association.  When a bunch of the boys got together on a Wednesday morning to play a game of recreational hockey, there was no vision of the eighty or more game schedule that exists today.  These were not just seasoned veterans of hockey rinks, most had served their country in World War II.  Some had even faced the rigors of German prisoner of war camps.  The group included Stan Butler, Al Finch, Ted Froats, Doug Good, Ron Hughes, Doug Southerst, Gray Poley, Ed Loney, Ben Benedetti, and others. 

At the start of each game, in true Canadian hockey tradition, the hockey sticks were thrown to centre ice where one of the group dispatched them, one by one, to either end of the rink.  Those landing together composed one team while the other pile was the second team.  As they left the ice that day, Doug Good announced that he was sure “huffing and puffing”.  Ed Loney picked up on Doug’s comment saying, “That’s what we’ll call ourselves - The Huff and Puffers!” and so the name was born.  Ed Loney and Ted Froats arranged the purchase of sweaters bearing the name “Huff N’ Puff” and the original logo.

In 1986, an additional twenty-five players had joined the group and the activity was moved to Silverwoods Arena and another hour of playing time was added.  Several members got together on non-hockey days and many wives accompanied them.  This introduced the co-ed element to the association.  In the spring it was decided to stay together and play l0-pitch, also a co-ed activity.

By 1989, the hockey players numbered one hundred and fifty.  The schedule was expanded to Monday and Friday as well as Wednesday.  The tenacious nature of the original ten players set a high standard for those who were to follow.  It is their strong leadership values that  made Huff N’ Puff the association it is today.  They set their ideals high and had the ambition to carry it out.  From us who followed, we thank you.

How to Join

Contact us by email (huffnpuffhockey@hotmail.com ) or phone 519-652-1485 Tell us about your previous and most current hockey experience, the position you play, your age and what level you used to play: Junior,Intermediate or Senior. The level is determined by ability

You must be 55 or turn 55 during the season and you must join the Huff ‘n puff organisation. We will send you an email to acknowledge your application and all the info you need to know on how to join.

Rules of Huff n Puff

Old Timer’s Hockey Rules (no contact, rough play, slap shots, no high sticks etc.) will be enforced. 

No centre line for two line passes.  

Players must wear a helmet (with full or half cage and mouth guard for insurance purposes). 

We strongly recommend that all players check the age, fit and condition of their current helmet. Does the cage fit into the J-clips? Do you use a mouth guard to help protect against concussions? Look for special offers on helmet, cage and mouth pieces coming this October.

Remember, it only took us about 100 years of hockey to figure out that our brains are at least as important as the other body parts. 

If  you feel strongly that thinking about this issue is a waste of time, you’re probably right.

Penalties - Players will sit out 3 minutes for penalties.  Three penalties in the same game and you will be asked to leave and you will miss the next game. Arguing with a referee may also result in a penalty. 

Any play which endangers the well-being or safety of another player or referee will not be tolerated.  Referees are volunteers.  They love hockey and they do the best they can.  Cooperation and compliance with their direction is expected from all players.  Serious infractions (rough play, lack of cooperation with referees etc) may result in disciplinary action from the Player Review Committee.  Remember, we are playing hockey for fun and exercise.

Team Sweaters & Socks

All players are expected to wear red and white Home and Away H&P Sweaters. These are available at: 

Source for Sports Teamworks

418 Wharncliffe Road South. 

519 963 0771

Email cass@sourcelondon.com 

You can order by phone or email if you know your size and pick them up a few days later. 

Teamworks is a separate store located on the south side of the Wharncliffe Beer Store.  Two sweaters and 2 pairs of socks can be purchased for $82.23 (includes tax).  Sweaters are crested on the front and include your name and your choice of number on the back. A single sweater costs $25.75. 

Source for Sports also offers free skate sharpening to all Huff N’ Puff hockey players and a 10% discount on all purchases - just tell them you are a Huff N’ Puff hockey player.  Any support you can give to Source for Sports by purchasing some of your equipment or sticks during the year is appreciated. 

Contact 

• 519.652.1485
• huffnpuffhockey@hotmail.com