Even the “Battle of Alberta” had to start somewhere.
From the spirited level of play, the good-natured cheering and the smiles evident on everyone’s face, it seems the seeds of a rivalry were planted recently at John Davidson School in Coaldale.
The kindergarten to Grade 9 school, which offers an alternative program for Low German-speaking Mennonite children, played host to a floor hockey game between students and adults.
The adult squad featured all stars from the local RCMP detachment, Town of Coaldale office, and staff from both Palliser Regional Schools central office, and John Davidson. Buoyed by chants from the student body of “go kids, go,” the Grade 7-9 students were served well as they battled their seniors to a hard-fought draw.
The event followed in the footsteps of a similar contest of basketball between the two sides last year. The goal was two-fold, according to John Davidson Principal Janice Loitz. The game was a leadership initiative where good sportsmanship and friendships were fostered, and also a means for the school to strengthen ties with the local community.
After students took on adults last year in basketball, plans are in the works for next year’s challenge.