Taking another shot at title
Charlottetown’s Kiara LaBobe playing for second time at national aboriginal championships
Kiara LaBobe hopes the second time is a charm as the 16-year-old hits the ice for another crack at national Aboriginal hockey championships glory.
LaBobe, a defenceman with the host Team Atlantic, begins the title quest bright and early on Friday against Ontario North. Puck drop is 8 a.m. in the first game of the tournament in Membertou, N.S.
“I’d say I’m a lot more confident. Last year I wasn’t sure how it all worked. I wasn’t on that level and I didn’t know what they we looking for. It was a little bit of a surprise,” LaBobe said. “I think I improved my speed a lot (from last year).”
LaBobe, who’s from Charlottetown, plays her regular season hockey with the Sherwood Falcons midget A boys team. The Grade 11 student at Charlottetown Rural High School played in the girls division last season, but has taken to the switch and the more physical game.
“There’s a lot more contact, a lot more fights. I maybe pushed them around a little bit,” said LaBobe. “I’ve improved my speed and ability, learned a proper slap shot.”
She’s also moved to the blueline from her normal rightwinger slot where she made Team Atlantic last year. LaBobe, a right-hand shot, tried it when her Falcons team was short on d-men, liked the position after a few shifts and it stuck.
“On defence there’s a lot of communication. You have to know where your teammates are at all times, make good passes and protect the net. Playing defence you get to see a lot more of the ice.”
The tourney is a Hockey Canada-sanctioned showcase for elite bantam and midgetaged Aboriginal hockey players from across Canada. It’s been on the national hockey docket since 2001 and it serves as a focal point for grassroots and regional Aboriginal hockey development.
Ten women’s and 10 men’s teams are in the event and vying for the titles. Team Atlantic, seeded fifth, is in a pool with top-seeded Manitoba, fourthseeded Alberta, Ontario North (seeded eighth) and ninth-seed Ontario South.
Labobe said she likes the event and will always remember it for what it offers on and off the ice.
“I like meeting all the new people… players with the other teams. It was in B.C. last year and this year we get to host. It’s nice.”
Pool B in women’s division includes Saskatchewan (second), B.C. (third), Eastern Door and North (sixth), North (seventh) and New Brunswick (10th).
The relegation round and semifinals go Friday, May 11. The bronze and gold medal games are Saturday, May 12.
On the web at www.nahcmembertou.com.