The COVID pandemic shut down a lot of things, including sports.
Two QW Hawks clubs had made it to the Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) finals this spring. The Klemencic Homes Minor Atoms and the Image Landscaping Major PeeWees were set to start their finals, when their dream seasons came to an end.
Usually, the championship teams at each level are awarded not only the championship trophy and medals, but also the Red Hats.
Due to the COVID shutdown, the OMHA decided that all teams who made the finals would get the Red Hats.
On Wednesday, with the National Air Force Museum of Canada as the backdrop, the two teams finally got their reward.
QW Minor Hockey President Mike Boates, coaches, and players all socially distanced while they received their hats. A special guest was also on hand to say a few words, and congratulate the players.
Two-time Stanley Cup champion Andrew Shaw told the players, “I understand it was hard to not get to finish the season, especially after the great year you guys had. You should be proud of your accomplishments. You represented Quinte West very well. Congratulations.”
PHOTOS BELOW
Andrew Shaw and QW Minor Hockey President Mike Boates (Photo: Tim Durkin/ Quinte News)
The Minor Atoms and Major PeeWee Hawks at the NAFMC (Photo: Cathy Frost)
Eli Davis from the Minor PeeWee Hawks and Andrew Shaw (Photo: Tim Durkin/Quinte News)
The Minor Atom and Major PeeWee teams getting their Red Hats (Photo: Tim Durkin/Quinte News)
