Sideline Stories: Johnny Mehler

As a #hockey player, there is no better environment or experience that can match what the Maine Pond Hockey Classic offers in this, the great state of Maine. In what will now be our fourth year in a row participating in the tournament, it’s a weekend that I look forward to each winter. For me, this event is about more than just hockey. I have a group of friends and former teammates that make the trek up from Philadelphia and Boston to spend the weekend on a lake catching up and playing hockey in what seems to be one of a handful of times each year that we get to see each other.

From year one, we were hooked. Walking down the path from the Snow Pond Center for the Arts at sunset and seeing close to a dozen games taking place simultaneously was a sight to see. The sound of skates carving up the ice, and pucks bouncing off sticks, wooden boards and nets, was music to our ears. Hockey, and sports in general, can really bring people together and I can see that not just with our team but all who participate year after year. I’m excited at how this event continues to grow year after year with the hardwork of the tournament director Patrick Guerette, the volunteers, sponsors, and all who play a part in putting this together because it’s all for a great cause as it benefits the Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCA at the Alfond Youth & Community Center of Greater Waterville

For us, this has become more than just a weekend with the boys — its has become a tradition.

And maybe, just maybe, this year we will make the playoffs!