
Participants in the 23rd annual Silver Totems Sports Camp at 19 Wing Comox were treated to a special visit by first all-around draft pick of 1976, Mr. Mel Bridgman. The Canadian centre played 14 seasons in the National Hockey League, from 1976 until 1989. MWO Rock Ferland, Silver Totem #27, and vice-president of the club coordinated the visit to the camp. One hundred athletes, ages 7 to 13, participated in the week-long camp that provided three on-ice instruction sessions per day, for a total of 15 ice times in the week. Mr. Bridgman donated his time to address the athletes in the Silver Totems Sports Camp, sharing a wealth of experience from a long and successful hockey career. The annual camp is a highlight for hockey families in the Comox Valley. Priority is given to serving families, but the camp is open to all residents of the Comox Valley. Intra-squad games are held on the Saturday as an official end of the camp. “These events are really enjoyed by the parents, and the kids,” shared Silver Totems spokesperson Maj Francis Laplante. “Some of the proceeds of the camp, and all donations, go to the Soldier On program.” Camp athletes are busy with other activities between on-ice instruction, including time in the swimming pool, playing dodgeball, and visiting numerous units at 19 Wing Comox. “This year we were able to offer visits to 442 Squadron, the firehall, the tower, and the Comox Air Force Museum,” said Maj Laplante. “These visits require significant support and effort from 19 Wing and we’re grateful for the Wing Commander’s support of the camp.” Silver Totems hockey club is the official Old Timers’ team of 19 Wing Comox, and the team faces old timer teams from across Vancouver Island through their regular season. The Silver Totems also represent 19 Wing Comox at CAF regional tournaments, and when all goes well, at nationals.