Prince Albert is an hour’s driving  distance from at least eleven lakes of which I am aware. No wonder it is called the ‘Land of the Lakes.’ The city’s proximity to the lakes is a major attraction when a person considers moving to Prince Albert. Not so for me. For us it was the opportunity of attaining a teaching position for both my wife and me. Only then did I become introduced to the natural beauty that surrounds the city. For a couple who came from Regina and Moose Jaw, where lakes were few and trees almost fewer, it was quite breath taking. 

The history of any place is, of course, constantly unfolding - but it takes human effort, commitment, and persistence to make that unfolding positive and life giving.

“What the devil is going on? Where is Meadow Lake’s fifth player?”

Before I continue this story, I will mention that a few readers of this ‘Column’ have contacted me to say they enjoyed my past stories about ex students. So, I thought I might relate a few memories I have of interesting sports events I witnessed during my high school teaching career. Now, back to my opening recollection.

I cautiously made my way along the school hallway. I was anxious. It was my first time playing Santa, but I thought my Santa suit looked pretty good. Just as I arrived at the cafeteria a boy about eleven came through the door. I quickly stepped back against the wall so that no one  could catch a premature glimpse of me. Dressed in his hockey jacket, the boy swaggered - a self assured tough guy walk. A grin came over his face, and he stated in a voice that clearly showed he felt too grown up for this nonsense.  “You’re too skinny to be Santa.” Now I was proud of the twenty- two pounds I had lost since July, but I didn’t need this back-handed compliment to boost my shaky ego. 

Glenn Dobbs, Ken Carpenter, Frank Tripucka, Gord Sturtridge, Larry Dumelie, Ron Atchison, Eddie Buchanan, Ron Lancaster, George Reed, Hugh Campbell, Kent Austin - these are but a few of my many favourite Riders. And yes, of course - there are Kerry Joseph, and Darian Durant.