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London sportsfiles TM Healthy sitting .ca By Gwen MacLean for Living Balance Clinic March/April 2021 We are sitting a lot these days. London & Area Edition There are fewer opportunities for GWEN MACLEAN RMT, CSI sports activities, and we are spending 551 Knights Hill Road, Unit 2 more time in our homes going from the London computer to the couch. That’s a lot of 519-601-6602 sitting! www.gwenmaclean.ca thelineup Our bodies are not designed for sitting. @structuralintegrationlondon Ancient humans did not sit in chairs. fitness...... pgs 4-5 & 22 They walked, hunted, gathered, built and How do we sit comfortably and dismantled camps, squatted and knelt. ...... pgs 6-9 healthfully? Not many of us squat in North America. Here are some foundational tips you gymnastics...... pg 10 Our hips don’t have adequate mobility, can use to sit in a healthy way to de- as we don’t squat much after the age of 4 martial arts...... pgs 11-12 crease back, neck and shoulder pain: and don’t move our bodies enough in the 1. Use a chair with a firm flat surface. way they are designed to move. soccer...... pgs 13-17 2. Make sure the chair is tall enough However, working up to squatting that your hips are higher than your knees. football...... pg 18 could be a new habit to add to your daily 3. Sit on the chair as if it were a stool regimen. It would be easy to work it in hockey...... pgs 19-21 without a back (you will be upright with a to TV watching. You can start off with curve in your low back). a book or two under your heels if your cycling...... pgs 22-23 4. Roll forward off your tailbone and calves are tight. This will allow you to get onto the front edge of your sitting bones, cheerleading...... pg 23 into the squat position more comfortably allowing your upper thighs and feet to until your calves release. have more weight in them. But when you have to sit, there are These tips will ensure you have a wide Special thanks to YMCA some tips to make it less taxing on your base of support with your pelvis. As long for the cover photo body. as your pelvis is tipped back, like it is A little test to try: Sit in your chair when we slouch, no amount of muscle with your feet on the floor and slouch will improve our ability to keep our trunk like you would at the end of a long day. erect and keep pain and discomfort at Does your weight fall to the back edge of bay. your sitting bones? If you take note, your Let’s talk about when you want to kick tailbone will be tucked under between back and recline during a movie. The your sitting bones, and the weight in your trick is to lean back on the backrest with- feet will be light. Your shoulders will be out rolling back on your sitting bones, rounded, and your chest dropped. Your without bringing your tailbone under- head will be forward, and this creates neath you, and without flattening the A proud supporter of a bulge at the base of the back of your curve in your low back. You can do this neck. This type of sitting could potential- local sports in St. Thomas by leaning straight back from your hips. ly lead to joint degeneration and back, Start the healthy sitting position with and the surrounding areas neck and shoulder pain. your buttocks into the back of the chair since 1954. and lean straight back until your upper back touches the backrest. Then you can let your low back relax. At this point, you will still have a slight curve in your low back. You will feel the weight in your sit- ting bones – not your tailbone. You will find that your chest stays open, and your shoulders don’t round forward. It will take some practice to build up your mus- cles to sit comfortably in this position,

My weight is on my upper thighs and I am rolled onto the back of my sitting but once you do, it’s pretty wonderful. the front of my sitting bones, my chest bones, the curve is gone from my is lifted, and I have a nice curve in my low back, my chest is dropped, my www.dougtarryhomes.com lower back. shoulders have rounded forward, www.livingbalanceclinic.ca and my neck has dropped into my upper body.

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Fitness that’s accessible! March/April 2021 Submitted by 9Round London PUBLISHER/SALES: Greg Matthison [email protected] · 519.619.6029 9round London is happy extend a free 1-week pass to anyone that London.SportsXpress.ca to be open again and would like to come try out our gym! running classes daily. We are lucky enough to have About 9Round London 9Round London is proud of its com- a small member base of mitment to its members’ health and around 200 members, so we are able to wellness, and to the education of its still have a lot of class bookings available trainers. The diversity of our staff, with and keep a small safe atmosphere for our backgrounds in personal training, fat members. loss coaching, professional fighting, We run classes every 45 minutes. We physiotherapy, and sports psychology, allow up to four members in the club creates the blend of experience at a time and have one trainer to guide Greg Matthison and family: Sam, Jack & Kate for members. our members through their workouts. Working out at 9Round is always a SALES Walter Browning Class times run throughout the morn- [email protected] unique experience. The 9Round circuit is ing (6:30am-12pm), and we re-open at 519.777.7322 focused on both losing weight and build- 3:30pm and start it back up again until ing lean muscle, using a blend of kickbox- EDITOR Todd Devlin the late evenings. ing techniques with high intensity interval WEB Alyssa MacLeod We are happy to be able to still offer training so that it’s a killer workout every great services and help all our members GRAPHIC DESIGNER Britt Cobean time. Members at 9Round have seen keep their fitness/workout results and be progress in their cardiovascular health, CONTRIBUTORS able to book times every single week. general mobility, flexibility and mental Gwen MacLean, GOT GAME Marketing, 9Round We know that sometimes it’s tough acuity! London, , London Western Track & to get into the regular gym right now, Field, Forest City Youth Slopitch, Pro Function Sports with thousands of members and only 50 www.9round.com Injury Clinic, Elgin Middlesex Soccer Association, booking slots per hour. We would like to LDBA Baseball, The Hockey Studio, Staff, Family Karate Centres, YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, London Mens Baseball League, London TFC Academy, Attack Racing, London Minor Football As- sociation, CheerStrike, the SportsXpress Team and local sports enthusiasts. PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS Johnny Zhang, Katie Gordon, Matt Hiscox Pho- tography, Family Karate Centres, Living Balance Clinic, London Knights, London Minor Football Association, Elgin Middlesex Soccer Association, LDBA Baseball, London Mens Baseball League, The Hockey Studio, Forest City Youth Slopitch, Attack Racing, YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, London TFC Academy, 9Round London, the SportsXpress Team, various sports group photographers and community sports fans.

London SportsXpress is an independently owned and operated member of the SportsXpress Network Editorial Contributions: Submissions are welcome from writers, photographers, athletes, coaches and individuals. Please contact the publisher. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. Contributors are responsible for obtaining all approvals for publication of photos and content prior to submission. All submissions may not be used. We may edit, publish, reproduce, distribute and archive submissions in any form or medium without any compensation. We are not responsible for lost or damaged submissions. Contents copyrighted. All rights reserved. Reproduction or transmission of any article, photograph or artwork in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher is prohibited. London SportsXpress is published six times per year. London SportsXpress is committed to protecting your privacy as our customer. We may collect personal information only if it is required for the proper functioning of our business and only share this information with our business partners. The editors and contributors who write for London SportsXpress attempt to provide accurate and useful information and commentary. However the editors, contributors and London SportsXpress cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. We assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions The 9Round London team is thrilled to be running classes and allowing people the opportunity to get in shape, get healthy, and live active lifestyles! taken by any readers based on the information provided.

4 London.SportsXpress.ca Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! sportsfiles Bandits back in action Submitted by London Western Track & Field and photo by Johnny Zhang

Though this past year has been sparse World Half-marathon Championships Gary Westgate, is a recent addition to for competition, good things come to in Poland (unfortunately, the event was The Bandits. Her personal bests are cur- those who seize the day. For instance: cancelled due to COVID); Connor Black rently 4:13.39 and 15:52.71, respectively. Phil Parrot-Migas’ fall half-marathon claimed a bronze medal while represent- The Bandits also welcome Mike qualified him to represent Canada at the ing Canada at the NACAC cross country Tate, reigning Canadian Cross-Country championships; Champion and Jenna Westaway, 800m Chris Balestrini national indoor record holder. Both ran a 2:17:05 athletes are coached by Dave Mills marathon on a at London Western Track Club, as are rainy cold morn- Connor Black, Jack Sheffar, and Phil ing in Waterloo; Parrot-Migas. and Jack Sheffar As we moved past the one-year an- made the most of niversary of COVID-19, we made sure to the Texas Qualifier reflect on the resiliency that our local Trials of Miles with running community has shown. It has a new London inspired us as Bandits to dig deeper Western 1500m ourselves and persist. Thank you for your club record of support. When you see us on the paths, 3:43.49. shout hello. We’ll stay positive, test Alexandra Lucki negative, and spread goodness. Backroads Bandits runners have managed some impressive accomplishments despite the lack of competitions in the of Toronto West, COVID-19 era. That includes Phil Parrot-Migas, Connor Black, Chris Balestrini and Jack Sheffar, shown here setting a new www.londonwesterntfc.com London Western 1500m record at the Texas Qualifier ‘Trial of Miles’ event. coached by

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Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! London.SportsXpress.ca 5 sportsfiles Ball welcome to all! Contributions by Forest City Youth Slopitch

It’s a league that has a place for every 18 to play slo-pitch baseball. child or youth. For 39 years, in fact, If you are looking to learn slo-pitch, Forest City Youth Co-ed SloPitch has enhance your skills, better your fitness, been offering a place for kids aged 4 to or make new friends in a team environ- ment, this is a place for you! Every skill level is welcome! Skill development /enhancement; Bats Everything is located available to borrow; Team sportsman- at Vauxhall Park (49 ship; and lifelong memories. Price St.), with a canteen The T-Ball (ages 4-5) and Tyke (ages and washrooms on-site. 6-7) divisions play one game per week Thanks to the help of our at 6:00pm, while the Midget (ages 8-10), local sponsors, we are Senior (ages 11-13) and Senior Plus able to offer a slo-pitch (ages 14-18) play twice per week (at season at the cost $50.00 6:00pm or 7:15pm). per player. That $50.00 Come be a part of the community as registration fee includes a a player, coach, umpire, or sponsor! full season that runs from Volunteer hours are also available. To May to August, as well register, or for more information, contact as: Jersey shirt and hat us at [email protected]. to keep; Season-ending Let’s PLAY BALL! event with BBQ, games, in- The Forest City Youth Co-ed SloPitch league has been offering children and youth fun and fitness on the diamond for nearly four decades! And it’s soon time to play ball once again! flatables, food and more; www.forestcityyouthslopitch.ca

6 London.SportsXpress.ca Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! sportsfiles Resolutions for new year, new spring

Submitted by London Mens Baseball League

With 2020 now well in the rear-view ‘righty’ out of the bullpen and get the 5. Spend more time outside. mirror, and spring (and hopefully next out/make the next meal a healthier 6. Try a new hobby. baseball) on the horizon, the LMBL is one. 7. Take more ‘me-time’ and practice celebrating both a new year and a new 2. Get more quality sleep. Nothing witty ‘self-care.’ season – and we’ve put together 7 on this one, it’s really tough, just try and Resolutions 4 to 7 are easily accom- Resolutions for a Baseball Player (7 do it. plished by simply registering to play in Resolutions because we play 7 innings): 3. Don’t be a hero. You can’t do it all, all the LMBL! It is a family friendly activity, 1. Eat healthy. We hear this all the time, the time. Trust your family/friends to help as we only play one day a week and you but I am asking you to eat healthy ‘like out more. Just like in baseball, you can’t get to play with a great bunch of guys a baseball player.’ A no-hitter is a rarity, always throw out the guy at home, so just outside. so don’t beat yourself up if you give in hit your cut-off person. www.lmblbaseball.ca to that extra dessert. Just bring in the 4. Do more physical activity.

The LMBL, an over-30 baseball league in London, is looking forward to a return to the diamond after a long layoff due to COVID-19 restrictions. The ‘boys’ of summer are ready to play!

Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! London.SportsXpress.ca 7 sportsfiles Baseball in the Forest City Submitted by LDBA Baseball

After a tough 2020, members of the lo- As we move into 2021, there has been cal baseball community are optimistic for more planning and discussion on what a a better 2021 on the diamond! Plans are season might look like. From league play, underway to return to play for the chil- and the formation of bubbles, to tourna- Also includes Aylmer, Delaware-Komoka-Mt Brydges, Dorchester, Exeter, Lucan-Ilderton, Ingersoll, Mitchell, dren of the London and District Baseball ments and championships, there is no Sarnia, Strathroy, Tillsonburg, and Wyoming Association (LDBA). Registration is un- doubt that it will look a little different derway across the region, workouts are then normal. and its member associations is the taking place, and everyone is hopeful we In the LDBA, the strategy has been to health and wellbeing of all its players, can return to action this summer. plan as our group always does, and pivot coaches and families,” says Brooks. LDBA President Derek Brooks says and adjust as needed. Baseball Ontario, More information will be available in things were difficult in 2020. “It was a as the governing body, will release a re- the coming weeks, and updates will be challenge in 2020 for obvious reasons. turn to play protocol in the coming weeks posted on the LDBA website at www. Many associations across the province after consultation with government of- ldbabaseball.ca and also on the Baseball made the difficult decision to cancel ficials and health units to determine what Ontario website at: everything, and we really couldn’t blame the baseball season will look like. www.ldbabaseball.ca them,” Brooks said. “The number one priority of the LDBA LDBA was no dif- ferent, with all but two local groups (the London Badgers and the St. Thomas Cardinals) choosing to sideline the season for 2020. “The Badgers and Cardinals formed mini bubbles with the Intercounty Baseball Association to get the players on the field,” Brooks said. “It was a very short season, but it allowed for some activ- Players in the London and District Baseball Association (LDBA), as well as coaches and parents, are optimistic that baseball – with some restrictions and health and safety guidelines – will be ity for the players.” played in 2021. It would be a welcome return this summer to play ball!

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8 London.SportsXpress.ca Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! sportsfiles Players eager after long layoff Contributions by London Majors Staff and photos by Matt Hiscox Photography

This offseason has been unlike any Kandel, utility player Chris McQueen, Alongside the young talent will be that Roop Chanderdat (co-owner, GM and outfielder Humberto Ruiz, and right- Julian Johnson, who some may remem- field manager) has been through since handed pitcher Dylan Brooks – each of ber from his time with the IBL’s Toronto taking over the Majors with co-owner whom took time off from the team. Maple Leafs – as well as his stint on Scott Dart. By the time the first pitch is Meanwhile, each year the team sees the Majors’ roster for last year’s Legacy scheduled to take place on June 4, 2021, additions to the roster with the likes of Classic game. Joining the pitching staff is it will have been 660 days since the new locals returning from school or new Jose Vasquez, a young, tall hard-throwing Majors last played in a league game (of imports. With the travel restrictions, im- right-handed pitcher from Cambridge course, there was one game played in ports have committed to the Majors but who most recently pitched for a DI school there that preserved the 144-year legacy will not be confirmed to join the roster (Northwestern) in Louisiana. of – the Legacy Classic back until closer to the start of the season Chanderdat has focused his time on on Aug 21, 2020). when restrictions are better known. preparing his local talent – when able Not only did this lengthy break give The team has added some Canadian to – with keeping with COVID restrictions Chanderdat time to look at the talent he talent in the form of local catcher Hayden and ensuring everyone’s health is the top had on the roster, but it allowed him to Jaco, who played for Cameron University priority. The players, and the coaching ponder what he could add to it. Returning in 2019. Other additions to the roster in- staff, are working hard to get ready for for the 2021 season are many local clude a former teammate of Jaco, infielder Opening Day, which is scheduled for June talents, such as infielder Carlos Arteaga Tyler Wood from Winnipeg, MB, and fel- 4 against the . (5th season), pitcher Owen Boon (6th low Winnipegger Adam Filmon, who will www.londonmajors.com season), outfielder Byron Reichstein (8th be deployed in the outfield. season), DH Cleveland Brownlee (11th season), and first basemen Josh Williams (2nd season). The Majors also brought back OF/P Robert Doyle (4th season) and utility player Evan Britt (3rd season), who add versatility to the roster. The team will also see some familiar faces return, in veteran shortstop Keith Hayden Jaco Carlos Arteaga

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sportsfiles Competitors across the world Submitted by Family Karate Centres

Throughout the last year, the Family continuing to train despite the pandemic Commission has been running interna- Karate Competition Team has been affecting their plans and schedules in tional tournaments for over a decade, a multitude of which has brought together many dif- ways. Luckily, ferent countries across North America, the team has South America and Europe. been able to The WKC Virtual Series allows any com- stay motivated petitor to register and compete alongside and keep push- people of their same skill level and age ing towards group from all across the world live on improving their Zoom. With the feel of a real tournament, forms and skills. competitors prepare themselves as they The announce- would if they were in-person to compete. ment of the WKC With eight different countries participat- Virtual Series lit ing in the first tournament, WKC plans on a fire under the hosting five more virtual competitions team members, until the summer. These competitions not so they are now only help with motivation for the com- able to compete petitors, but they will also measure how against people much everybody has progressed since from all across the start of the year. the world. The www.familykarate.ca Jada Sang competing her creative weapons form in the team’s first virtual tournament. World Karate

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Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! London.SportsXpress.ca 11 sportsfiles Is your business ready for prime time?

Submitted by GOT GAME Marketing

Serial entrepreneurs Greg Matthison team of our own to create a digital mar- means that we understand the chal- and Walter Browning are excited to an- keting agency that includes industry ex- lenges faced by many business owners. nounce the next evolution in their series perts who not only understand the power Partnering with us will give you peace of of marketing businesses: GOT GAME of digital marketing, but who understand mind knowing that your business is win- Marketing. the process and can effectively communi- ning the game. “With our past businesses, we’ve ex- cate with business owners and marketing perienced the confusion associated with directors.” digital marketing, and we've dealt with A Straightforward Approach experts who ended up making it more In the world of digital marketing, the frustrating at times,” said Matthison. game is always changing. Not keeping “But we still had hope, and we knew up with the latest trends means you are there was a massive opportunity to grow missing out on growing your business. our businesses in the digital world. So, Our team’s combined 30 years of market- we persevered and assembled an all-star ing and business management expertise

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sportsfiles Back on the field in 2021 Submitted by London TFC Academy

During these unprecedented times, “It is great to be involved with such anticipation of a full season ahead.” one thing remains constant: The desire a dedicated group of individuals, with Several London-based clubs have to get on the field and kick the ball. Like one common goal,” says Loucks. “Every recently announced they will not be run- other soccer leagues and clubs around player and coach is focused, and we want ning programming in 2021. the world, London TFC Academy and FC to make sure there is alignment from the “We can certainly understand the hesi- LONDON continue to keep players on the youngest players to the top of the club. tation for some recreational clubs in the field as much as possible – in a safe and With my experience at Ontario soccer, we region to run programming this summer,” healthy environment. will be continuing training and expand- says Ian Campbell, FC LONDON CEO. “It’s After wrapping up the indoor season ing our coaching staff as we focus on the a big undertaking and a lot of responsi- with a false start at BMO, the club has all player pathway.” bility, especially with the volunteer staff. teams back to training on their new Tricar As the club looks over the horizon, We are hoping that by continuing to run, field. Tricar field is an outdoor training they are optimistic that competitive players and parents will still have an facility including a full-sized state-of-the- play will be reinstituted at some point in avenue to pursue their passion for the art turf field, fenced and with energy- 2021. “It will probably start out region- game.” efficient lighting. The field also has a ally and expand from there,” says David Keep checking the website for further clubhouse used for strategy and lecture Debenedictis, GM of the club. “In the details (www.fclondonacademy.ca and sessions, storage, a club office, conces- interim, we will be focusing on training, www.fclondon.ca). sion area, and change rooms. Adhering which is already actually 4/5 (80 per- www.fclondonacademy.ca to provincial guidelines, the field and cent) of the curriculum when you think clubhouse are already in heavy use for about it. Practice makes perfect.” the 2021 season. Provincial guidelines, in tandem with To kick-start things this spring, the Ontario Soccer, allow the program to run club had a Tuesday night snow shovel- full training at levels Orange, Yellow or ing party attended by about 75 players, Green. parents, and coaches, who shoveled for League One and League One Reserves three hours while Mother Nature did the for both Men and Women are also look- rest. ing toward a competitive summer. Head Starting the new season, Londoner Coach of League One teams, Michael Chris Loucks has taken on the role of Marcoccia, explains that “They hope Technical Director, bringing his Ontario to have the league up and running by Soccer experience to the club. Chris mid-June at the latest. If it's much later is a seasoned National level coach than that, it may be tough with players who will now keep the club focused on going back to college and university. Ontario and Canadian youth club soccer Fingers crossed that we’ll see everyone

standards. in the stands soon. We’re training hard in Chris Loucks, Technical Director of London TFC Academy

London TFC Academy players, parents and coaches took part in a snow Tricar Field – dreaming of summer A post-workout conversation in the clubhouse at the new Tricar Field shoveling party/team-building exercise this winter at the new Tricar Field.

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sportsfiles Returning to the pitch Contributions by Elgin Middlesex Soccer Association

The top priority for the Elgin Middlesex which may mean fewer games as we work Soccer Association (EMSA) is maintain- within the 50-person competitive bulletin ing the safety of all participants while we restrictions and the two-week quarantine return to playing soccer in the District. The period when we need to change competi- communication between clubs, leagues tive bubbles. and local health units is extremely impor- The situation has brought out creative thinking, where leagues have looked at tant if we are going to have a successful John Laverty, President of EMSA return to play in 2021. There are seven 9v9 – and even 7v7 – models of soccer for fantastic, and the guidance from Ontario Public Health Units that impact the EMSA some of our older groups. Our clubs and Soccer has been great. District, and we are also following Ontario leagues need to be commended for the Soccer’s return to play guide for a suc- creative thinking and planning they have The downsides of COVID soccer cessful 2021 season. done to engage as many players as pos- We prefer to see the ‘downsides’ rather We are seeing registration numbers sible during a very difficult time. Ontario as challenges. These include: the 50-per- at about 75% pre-COVID levels on the Soccer has also been very supportive and son competitive bubble outdoors, which competitive side. Our WOSL (senior men’s) encouraging. is challenging; Enhanced cleaning require- is closer to 90% of its pre-COVID registra- The ‘positives’ out of COVID ments for teams, clubs and municipalities, tion numbers, although our recreational What has become clear during the as it relates to facilities and their use; registrations are only at 30% of pre-COVID COVID-19 era is the resilience of EMSA Keeping up with the changing require- levels. However, we expect that number to clubs and leagues to offer programs ments of the colour-coded system and not be higher as more clubs register their play- its members are requesting – even if it being able to plan for a full season (as the ers and we get closer to 2021 play. doesn’t necessarily look like traditional number of COVID-19 cases in a particular These are numbers close to what both soccer. The willingness of our players, par- local health unit may change and, thus, the District and the Ontario Soccer 2020 ents, clubs, leagues and match officials to change its colour designation). survey results predicted. work together to plan for a successful and However, everyone in the EMSA soccer People want to play soccer in 2021, and safe 2021 season has been impressive. world understands the need for safety we are excited that we have so many who Another positive aspect to come out of protocols to protect our communities want to play. We also believe that as the the unique COVID situation have been the from COVID. We know and understand vaccine becomes more available, more effective communication with local health that 2021 will be a transition year to what participants will return to playing soccer. units and municipalities (and their willing- we believe will be a more normal soccer A different look ness to work with the soccer community to experience beginning in 2022. For the most up-to-date information, Soccer may look different between provide for a safe 2021 outdoor season). visit our website at: the various leagues this year. Our senior The willingness of all participants to be players prefer a return to the 11v11 game, good listeners and to be helpful has been www.emsadistrict.com

16 London.SportsXpress.ca Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! CALL: 519-451-8342 EMAIL: [email protected] 555 Third St, London, ON N5V 2C1 www.discountdrain.ca

Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! London.SportsXpress.ca 17 sportsfiles Great start to season Submitted by London Minor Football Association

As we continue to react and adapt to the ongoing pandemic, we first of all want to thank all the front- line workers and medical staff who continue to work so hard keeping everyone safe. No one yet knows what the rest of 2021 will look like, but starting the year finally with a modified indoor football program at Centrefield Sports was a great feeling for the London Minor Football Association (LMFA). By following all of the gov- Kalib Chapman and Robert Moody ernment rules and best practices, we were able to run a safe program to keep young players active and engaged. The number of players was very limited, but this program was just a start. All the players and coaches had fun and were very happy to return to the field. We are hopeful for bigger

and better programs later this year – Ryder Migchels, Keaton Papple and Tyler Pickering Ryder Migchels, Keaton Papple, Tyler Pickering, Liam Swanson, Gage Lincoln if we are able to run programs safely. and Mason Craftchick Information on our Under 10, Under 12 and Under 14 age divisions can be found on our website. We will also have all the latest information on our fall programs posted there. Please visit www.lmfafootball.ca or call 519- 852-4465 for more information. www.lmfafootball.ca Charlie Barnes, Ethan Bouchard and Jacob Wilson Jacob Chilvers, Aman Hassan and Teagan Middegaal

FOR AN IN-HOME DESIGN CONSULTATION CALL 519 661 - 6895

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SXP_Z02_London_14SO.indd 44 2014-08-26 1:39 PM sportsfiles Is your body ready for golf season? Submitted by Pro Function Sports Injury Clinic

Most of us have prepare beforehand? Here is some advice not golfed since on what to do … the end of last First, get moving. In the weeks to season. Many of months before the golf season opens, us missed out on being able to travel walking, cycling or any form of exercise to play golf this past winter. Regardless can be beneficial to your body. By being of the last time you played a round, it active, you are preparing the muscles is likely that you’ve been more inactive and tissues in your body for some of the than you would have preferred over these motions you will perform on the course. last six or seven months. Second, warm up. Head to the driv- We attribute this inactivity to things ing range a couple of days before and like not being able to go to the gym and hit a bucket of balls – but don’t overdo playing our favourite sport. This lack of it! Before you swing the club for the first movement during the winter months is time, perform a warmup routine consist- one of many contributing factors that ing of upper and lower body movements, can increase our chances of injury during as well as trunk rotations from side to the golf season. If you become injured, side to mimic a golf swing. An example of Dr. Josh Macedo and Pro Function professionals can take a look at your golf you can’t golf at your best. So, why not this could be high knees with arm circles, swing and help prevent injuries this season. and high knees Injury is the last thing you want at the with a trunk twist. beginning of your golf season. Take a Perform this same proactive approach and prevent an injury routine each time before it happens! before you play a Looking for more guidance on how to round. help prevent an injury or enhance your Third, cool down. golf season? Follow us at @profunction- Before sitting london on Instagram and Facebook for down after your tips on how to prevent golf-related inju- round, perform a ries – or book an appointment to see Dr. similar drill as your Josh Macedo. Bring your clubs, and we’ll warmup. Go for a take a look at your swing at our indoor light walk, incorpo- training facility at Centrefield Sports. rating arm and leg www.profunction.ca movements.

Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! London.SportsXpress.ca 19 sportsfiles All-in-one hockey training Submitted by The Hockey Studio

The Hockey Studio is coming to How does Billingsley aim to meet his London, and owner Chris Billingsley, a mission? By providing a place where elite former Junior hockey goalie and veteran athletes can: Get intensive all-in-one elementary school teacher, believes the training with qualified coaches; Train on facility’s offerings will be a welcome the ice, fuel up with quality foods and addition to Forest City hockey players hit the gym to train their body; Leave the looking to achieve their goals. building knowing they are leaving better At its core, the philosophy of The than when they walked through the door. Hockey Studio is ‘to provide London That building is a 6,600 square foot and area athletes a training centre that facility with a training rink (real ice) in the offers programs that focus on a player’s Northwest corner of London (1828 Blue developmental journey. The Hockey Heron Drive, Unit 30-31). Construction Studio is dedicated to players chasing continues, and a tentative target open their dreams.’ date has been set for May. The facility features: an NHL-style coaches room for video and game analy- sis; An OES Scoreboard for an exciting 2 on 2 league; Four dressing rooms; SPARX PRO Skate Sharpener and an essentials pro shop; A 500 square foot turfed area for dryland/fitness/mobility training; with Jon Elkin, at his NHL camp with Stars and an indoor Golf Studio featuring a such as Mackenzie Blackwood and Matt Uneekor Golf Simulator (yes, The Hockey Murray. Studio will also offer golf training with its An elementary school teacher by day, ‘Thirteen Under Golf Studio’). Billingsley is adept at using students’ Billingsley was a by trade strengths and individual learning styles during his playing days, winning Rookie to help them reach their potential. And of the Year honours with the OHA’s Junior he’s dedicated to providing personal A Brampton Capitals in the 1990s. He attention to each of his clients, ensuring went on to play in Senior leagues for 15 that he takes on fewer clients to give his years and created first ever goalie school players everything he has. in the Elora/Fergus area (Elora Rocks goalie school). Most recently, he worked Chris Billingsley, Goalie Coach www.thehockeystudio.com

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20 London.SportsXpress.ca Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! teamprofiles Don Brankley HOF Class announced Submitted by London Knights

Medium Green - PMS 349 RGB 4 106 56 HEX/HTML 046A38 CMYK The90 12 95 40 London Knights “The pandemic has changed a lot of in London’s first ever Jr. A season as Sunflower Yellow - PMS 123 RGB 255 199 44 HEX/HTML FFC72C CMYK 0 19 89 0

areBlack proud to announce things, but our rich history and long team captain,” says Rick Doyle, London RGB 0 0 0 HEX/HTML 000000 CMYK 100 100 100 100

White theRGB 255 255 255 Don Brankley list of successful alumni on and off the Knights Alumni Foundation President. HEX/HTML FFFFFF CMYK 0 0 0 0 London Knights Hall of ice will always be a part of the London “We are proud to announce, along with Fame Class of 2021. Knights,” says , London the London Knights Hockey Club, six This year’s Class Knights General Manager. “We are outstanding alumni who will be inducted includes Darryl thrilled as an organization to continue on alongside other Knights greats and Don Edestrand (1965-66), (1975- this great tradition and recognize six men Brankley in this special way.” 78), Dave Simpson (1977-82), Tom who have made outstanding contribu- A traditional in-game ceremony hon- Kostopoulos (1996-99), tions to the London Knights.” ouring the inductees will take place at a (2001-05) and (in the builder “Darryl, Pat, Dave, Tom, Danny and Bill later date. category). represented the London Knights well, www.londonknights.com and in Darryl’s case the

ABOUT THE DON BRANKLEY LONDON KNIGHTS HALL OF FAME

Named after the London Knights’ long-time trainer, the Don Brankley Hall of Fame was established in 2019 and honours outstanding alumni for their career accolades during their time with the London Knights. The Don Brankley London Knights Hall of Fame is located between sections 309 and 310 at . The London Knights Hockey Club and the London Knights Alumni Foundation work in collaboration to determine induct- ees on a year-to-year basis.

10 locations to serve you in Southwestern Ontario

Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! London.SportsXpress.ca 21 sportsfiles The best of both worlds Submitted by YMCA

During the most recent closure, the interactive way for us to continue to con- work out, these virtual programs make a YMCA of Southwestern Ontario launched nect with our members. great addition to your fitness and social Virtual Group Fitness and Children’s The program was so successful, in routines – and add even more value to programs to everyone in our community. fact, that as we opened our branches your membership! These programs quickly grew in popu- on February 19, we continued to provide larity, and they offered an exciting and virtual programming. We are currently The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario The YMCA provides a place for families offering Group to enjoy a fun and healthy environment Fitness classes, – where everyone is welcome. The YMCA Children’s prides itself on enriching the community Karate, Family through ‘growth in spirit, mind, and Cooking classes, body’ for people of all backgrounds, Babysitting beliefs, and abilities. courses, and Busy families need a place designed various Social just for them. At the YMCA, families programs – such receive all-in-one programming and as a monthly schedules that suit the whole family. Trivia night. With The YMCA means welcoming, it means the branch now belonging, and it means opportunity! open and mem- bers coming in to www.ymcaswo.ca

YMCA of Southwestern Ontario TWO WEEK GUEST PASS

Valid at Bostwick Community Centre, YMCA & Library This GUEST PASS Guests must abide by all policies and procedures applicable to members. entitles you to Photo I.D. required one consecutive Expiry date: two week visit at the YMCA. Authorized by: The YMCA began virtual programming during the second COVID-19 lockdown, and it was such a hit that they’ve continued to offer a variety of virtual offerings to the community. Shown here (left to right): Bethany Stigge and Natalie Minda; Gemma Carleton; Janice MacDonald; Rebecca D'Souza. The kids – on the bike – are alright Submitted by Attack Racing

Attack Racing is London’s only youth- virtually together at focused cycling program. We offer a home using plat- variety of programming, from introduc- forms like Zoom, tion to mountain biking to National level Discord, Zwift and road and velodrome racing. While there RGT. are opportunities to race, our focus is on “Since taking up fun and skill development, always in a road cycling in 2013, safe environment. I had heard about Our team ranges in age from 9 to 18, this team. It wasn’t and while some riders focus on cycling until a few years as their sport of choice, others use later that I joined cycling as cross training for other sports and felt like part of a like hockey or speedskating. We ride family full of positiv- year-round, whether at the Forest City ity, encouragement, Velodrome, on the roads or trails, or and teamwork, both

22 London.SportsXpress.ca Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! sportsfiles Royals are resilient Submitted by CheerStrike and photos by Katie Gordon

Season 8 at CheerStrike has been well as between teammates), to making missing a few key elements of a normal sure they keep participating in the sport competitive season: no stunting, no in- they love, and, most importantly, keeping person competitions, and, for many, no our athletes, staff and families healthy full team practices. But the key elements and safe! of what we offer at CheerStrike, and what Season 8 will be coming to an end it means to be a member of our Royal with our teams filming routines for Family, have remained the same. virtual competitions – it is time to see Throughout ever-changing restrictions our athletes recognized for their achieve- and shutdowns, we have continued to ments, in spite of the pandemic. Team be dedicated to training our athletes any Placements for Season 9 will begin early way we can, to preserving the relation- in May, with Season 9 training beginning ships between coaches and athletes (as in June 2021. Why choose cheer for your child? Cheer offers incredible physi- cal and mental training; the combination of encouraging environment. physical skill with We offer competitive programs for chil- the performance of dren from the ages of 3-18 and for all skill a memorized and levels: Novice for those just starting out perfected routine in the sport; Prep for those with interme- offers benefits to diate skills; and All-Star for experienced your child’s growth and highly skilled athletes. and ability to Come find out that no matter what focus, remember changes come our way, it will always and problem solve. be great to BE ROYAL. If you’d like more Cheer also builds information, email us at info@cheerstrik- self-esteem and eroyals.com. confidence in a Nothing – not even a pandemic – has been able to stop CheerStrike Royals athletes from participating in the sport they love, improving their skills and developing relationships with their fellow teammates! supportive and www.cheerstrikeroyals.com

Attack Racing offers youth aged 9 to 18 the opportunity for fitness, fun and skill development. Some athletes enjoy the competition, while others enjoy the benefits of cross-training for other sports (Note: Photos taken before COVID!). on and off the bike,” says Matthew, who Watch our website (www.attackracing. Contact [email protected] for is now in university and coaching with ca) for registration for spring and summer information on getting started. the team. “And all this while achieving programs in mountain and road cycling. www.attackracing.ca goals and still having fun!”

Use #LondonSportsXpress and get FEATURED! London.SportsXpress.ca 23 1350 Driver Lane London • (519) 455-6200 www.macmasterchev.ca