It may have been raining outside on Saturday, but inside the GACC we were hit with a full-on blizzard! After two weeks without Tsunami hockey, the team was finally back on the ice, sporting their special edition Christmas jerseys, for our second annual Snowball Toss game, this year against the Ridge Meadows Flames.
Any time an in-game activity depends on the home team scoring, there’s bound to be a little stress… especially when you’re facing the number two team in the league. The first period ended scoreless, leaving fans anxiously wondering when they’d finally get the chance to throw their snowballs. The Flames opened the scoring early in the second period, but the Tsunami kept pressing, coming close again and again and keeping the crowd on edge.
Then, when the tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife… it happened.
Ryan Heuser scored the Snowball Goal! The bench exploded, fans leapt to their feet, and a flurry of snowballs rained down onto the ice. It was the most excited I’ve ever seen Coasters for a snowstorm.
Unfortunately, the rest of the game didn’t unfold the way we hoped, with Ridge Meadows ultimately taking the contest 4–1.
During the game, we were also proud to present a cheque for $1,100 to Sunshine Coast Secret Santa, made possible through our partnership with Marino’s Independent Grocer. Being able to support such an important local charity during the holiday season meant a great deal to everyone involved.
With the holidays now upon us, the players will be taking a short break to head home, spend time with families, and recharge for a busy stretch ahead. The Tsunami return to action on December 30th with a road game against the Langley Trappers, followed by a home double-header at the GACC, January 2nd versus the Delta Ice Hawks and January 3rd against the Chilliwack Jets. Be sure to bring your skates and stick around after the January 3rd game for our Winter Skate with the team!
Now, Tsunami Nation, I wish I could end on a lighter note. It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our incredible on-ice host, Steve McGarry. Steve was such a special part of our Tsunami family, bringing energy, warmth, and a big smile to every single game. We will miss him dearly and always cherish the time we were lucky enough to share with him.
As Steve left the ice each night, he’d remind us to cheer loud for our boys and help bring home that W. On January 2nd, we’ll do just that, celebrating Steve’s memory and cheering louder than ever for him and for your Coastal Tsunami.
Happy Holidays, Tsunami Nation.
Sassy Tsu 🌀💙
