George Preston arena was packed with young skaters Sunday, Dec. 11, for the return of the 91原创 Minor Hockey Association (LMHA) Santa Skate Event.

They clustered around the jolly old elf as he handed out candy canes and posed for pictures, while parents dropped off donations for the food bank in the lobby.

Shelley Rosner, LMHA vice-president, was smiling at the turnout for the first post-pandemic-restrictions version of the event.

鈥淚t鈥檚 way popular,鈥� Rosner enthused.

鈥淚t鈥檚 wonderful.鈥�

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In the new year, LMHA will host the annual double knockl-out tournament for U11 to U18 particpants running March 11-13 at the 91原创 Sportsplex.

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March 15-18 the will take place for U7, U8 and U9 teams. It honours the memory of the late Adams, who is remembered as an integral part of LMHA, serving as a team mom, division manager, secretary and registrar.

LMHA is a member of PCAHA, the governing organization for minor hockey in the Lower Mainland District of BC Hockey, which includes the area from Hope to the Sunshine Coast.

PCAHA鈥檚 membership includes 42 minor hockey associations and two above-minor leagues, made up of an estimated 19,700 male and female players aged five to 20; 6,000 coaches, managers, and other team officials; as well as 2,100 referees and many other volunteers.

More photos from the Dec. 11 Santa Skate can be viewed online at the .

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