Lakehead Thunderwolves issue challenge to York Lions

Lakehead University Thunderwolves and York University Lions hockey competition to get chilly

The Lakehead University Thunderwolves men's hockey team will visit Orillia this fall to face off against one of their rivals, the York University Lions. The game is set for Saturday, October 30 and will take place in Rotary Place at the new West Orillia Sports Complex on University Avenue, next to Lakehead's new campus facility.

On October 13, at a media event hosted by game sponsor, Jim Wilson Chevrolet Buick GMC, Tom Warden, Lakehead University Athletics Director, issued a challenge to the York University Lions coach, Jim Wells. "The Lakehead Thunderwolves challenge the York University Lions to agree to a dip in Lake Couchiching," announced Warden. The challenge would see the athletic director of the losing team's university participate in the polar bear dip event held during Orillia's annual winter carnival on February 13. Lions Coach Jim Wells agreed to the challenge on behalf of York University Sport and Recreation Director, Jennifer Myers, who was unable to attend the media event.

Wells confirmed that the team is up for the challenge. "We are looking forward to our upcoming game against the Thunderwolves." Lakehead University has become one our biggest rivals and we are ready for a great competition."
The Lakehead Thunderwolves men's varsity hockey team enjoyed a strong season last year, finishing third in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) west division and making it to the OUA finals.


Ready for the challenge: (from l to r): Jim Wilson, of Jim Wilson Chevrolet Buick GMC, the title sponsor of the Thunderwolves vs Lions hockey match, along with Brian Jeffs of Lakehead University; "Wolfie," the Thunderwolves mascot; and Jim Wells, York University Lions coach.

"This is the second Thunderwolves hockey game held in Orillia," noted Warden. "It will be a great opportunity for Lakehead - Orillia students and the community at large to enjoy a "varsity" experience." We are also pleased to be supporting our varsity program through the new rowing and curling programs at the Orillia campus and look forward to cheering on these athletes in the coming years."

The October 30 game will include a pre-game pep rally at the new 500 University Avenue campus from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. This will be an opportunity for spectators to enjoy a barbeque, meet "Wolfie," the Thunderwolves mascot, and take part in a variety of fun events and win prizes.
Lakehead - Orillia Athletics and Recreation Facilitator, Liz Ross, says she expects the game will be a sell-out, with 700 spectators. "This game will be a chance for the community of Orillia to come out and see some high calibre hockey, while cheering on the Lakehead Thunderwolves to another great season."

Ross added that she is extremely pleased with the community support for the event and thanked the game's many sponsors, including title sponsor, Jim Wilson Chevrolet Buick GMC and media sponsors, The Packet and Times and KICX 106/104.1 The Dock.

Tickets for the game are on sale at Lakehead's 500 University Avenue campus and at Manticore Books on Mississaga Street in downtown Orillia. The cost is $15 for adults and $12 for youth, students and Lakehead alumni. On October 30, doors open at 7:00 pm; the puck drops at 7:30 pm.