More than 70 hockey players over the age of 80 are in Huntsville this week for the latest installment of the Canada 150 cup. The Canada 150 cup got its name after its first year while celebrating our countries sesquicentennial birthday. This week, some of the best hockey players aged 80 years and older from Canada and the United States are back at it in Huntsville for a multi-day tournament. Everyone on the ice this week has hockey in their blood and have played for decades. They simply have a love for the game. “At this age, it’s the comradery. It’s a big thing and the ability to still be able to play, I give my lord and saviour for giving me the ability to continue to play at this age,” says 85-year-old David Mallette. There are four teams in the event: two from Canada and two from the United States and while it’s all about fun and staying active, these guys want to win. “I guess it’s the love of the game. It’s very good hockey. We like to see the Canadian way of playing the game and enjoy it,” says 86-year-old Clayton Mannausau from Minnesota. “They love the game of hockey. They are playing in the spirit of the match and in friendship. We are so proud to be hosting them this year and super excited they are here in Hunstville with us,” says George Nickerson with the Canada 150 Cup organizing committee. Bruno Catelin is the kid referee. He’s only 71 so he can’t play for another nine years. For those on the ice, it’s a chance to relive childhood memories and stay active in their golden years. “I’ve been playing all my life. I don’t remember when I started and we just love playing hockey anywhere any time,” says 80 year-old Larry Cassie. There are a total of 75 players taking part in this hockey tournament. The four teams will play a total of four games with the finals set for Friday.
