The Tomcats finished the season on Saturday with our annual tournament. Historically, the tournament is played the last day of February. However, because of COVID restrictions, and a late start to the Winter/Spring season segment, Tomcat moved the tournament until April and made it the season closing event. Since we did not play the 2020-2021 season, it had been 770 days between Tomcat Tournaments!
Despite the tournament being a huge success, it was not without last minute turmoil. In the days leading up until this past Saturday, COVID reared it’s ugly head and caused several committed players to drop. Thanks to Scuz, Jingles, LaBamba and Napoleon (Son of Junior) for being last minute replacements. Depth is a great thing.
The teams:
Captains came through with some phenomenal team names and logos on T-shirts. Big thanks to Hollywood for arranging all the swag creation for the teams and everyone involved. We all love the Ukraine inspired shirt given to all Tomcats and used in the team photo.
As expected, games began shortly after 8:30am and the speed of play was faster than typical Tuesdays. Everyone always adds a little extra come tournament time.
In the end, Bullwinkle’s Bombers were too much for the Lizard Kings and they were able to drink from Stanley’s Cup.
All goalies played well with many amazing saves worthy of ESPN’s Top 10 highlights. Scuz showed no rust despite not playing for more than a year and getting the call up one day before.
However, Bender had the best day, and was named MVP for helping his team to victory.
MayDay won the Finner Award for his efforts to raise money for Ukraine. We need more people willing to step up like that.
Most Gentleman award was given to the guy who could be on the cover of each and every Gentlemen’s Quarterly (GQ), Beep. The guys is always showing true sportsmanship.
The day would not have been possible without great game officiating from Doc and Hollywood. It is a thankless job but we thank them nonetheless.
Soupy’s wife, Serta, stopped by to take the team photo…she is a keeper Soupy!
Great seeing a family photo from tournament day…Soupy, Serta and the future stars of Tomcat Nation:
And speaking of Soupy, big thanks to him and Kamikaze (who had to miss due to COVID) for planning the tournament.
Jingles handled pizza for the boys after so we could celebrate one final time before the summer hiatus. Thanks Jingles!
In the end, 2021-2022 was a challenge but the Tomcats made it happen after a missed year. We all needed this season, and we all need the tournament. Hopefully 2022-2023 is totally back to normal.
Keep an eye out for updates on summer events. There will be a board meeting in early May and any Tomcat can attend to have input. There are the Kapusta and Pantelone de Neige golf tournaments, and other events to be shared later.
Thanks to all Tomcats for being Tomcats. This is a great organization of great guys and great friends. Tomcats Forever!
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Windsor Tomcats 