By Melissa Gaudette
THE rink is full of leaves, tree branches, and puddles, but it doesn’t stop the Nassau Street Hockey League from cleaning it up so they can play. On Wednesday night, it’s game day as long as it doesn’t get rained out at The (former) Sandtrap on West Bay Street.
One of the people cleaning up is Ryan Murray. Murray is captain of the Nassau Maple Reefs, commissioner for the league, and a board consultant. He’s heavily involved in the league and is one of many that helps the league stay running.
This year, there are more than 50 people involved in the league. The league has four teams - Nassau Maple Reefs, Potter’s Cay Pirates, Nassau Sharks, and Nassau Hurricanes. Each team has a roster of up to 15 players. The league mostly consists of men, but this year there are two women playing.
Players join because they love the sport. Murray said: “I play because I grew up playing hockey in Canada and I love the sport. The league here reminds me of home, but the friends and fun had each week makes it tough to miss a game.”
“We have a great mix of players,” Murray said. “Some people are brand new to the sport and some used to play pro hockey. We take everyone who is interested and willing to learn. Recently we are building Bahamian numbers by creating more awareness of the league and once someone tries it, they are hooked.”
The league has grown in popularity, interest and quality since it began 20 years ago.
“The league is always improving. [We] started in a church parking lot then moved to a tennis court and now we play in an official rink.”
“It can be demanding for those who have been sitting on the couch for the past few years. It’s great to see those guys stick with it and are in decent shape by the end of year, but then we also have the guys who love the game, but enjoy the socialising afterwards more. There is something for everyone here. Part time warriors and full time beauties, everyone has a blast—even the fans.”
With each season, the league grows. The league is working towards two goals: starting a youth league and putting together a national team. “We also want to put together a national team and allow those who play hockey the chance to represent this great country.”
The talent is undeniable, but last week, however, the weather wasn’t on the Nassau Street Hockey League’s side. As Game 1 wrapped up, the rain started to fall and Game 2 - Murray’s team - gets postponed. Weather may temporarily affect a game, but it doesn’t stop the passion, dedication and spirit.
Players love the game. The crowd loves cheering on some great hockey. It’s easy to see why the Nassau Street Hockey League generates such popularity.
“And to think it started two decades ago with some buddies who love hockey,” Murray said.
With 18 scheduled games in the regular season and playoffs happening in the spring, the Nassau Street Hockey League is the best place to catch that hockey action. Be sure to check them out Wednesday nights at The Sandtrap, right next to Arawak Cay. Game 1 is at 7:30pm and Game 2 is at 8:45pm.
Stay updated with the Nassau Street Hockey League. Visit their Facebook page and their website: http://www.nassauhockeyleague.com/
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