Youths skate alongside their OHL idols in ‘Colt for the Day’ event

Young hockey players from around the Barrie area got to experience a day in the life of an OHL hockey player in Sunday’s ‘Colt for the Day’ event.

The annual event was in its 20th year, giving 160 local youth the chance to play alongside Barrie Colts players and perhaps get inspired to become professional hockey players themselves.

“We get to come in and meet some of these younger kids and be role models for them and be able to give back to the community, so it’s always something the guys look forward to and have fun with,” said Sam Hillebrandt, goaltender for the Colts. “We’re grateful to have this opportunity to give back to our fans and community.”

In addition to the scrimmages, the kids got autographs and photo opportunities with their favourite Colts players.

“They’re very good at playing hockey, so I learn lots about them so I can become just like them,” said Logan Henderson, a seven-year-old participant.

The event has supported Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Barrie & District (BBBSOBD) for the past 20 years and was looking to raise $15,000 from Sunday.

Around 30 from BBBSOBD take part each year, kids who may not otherwise have the means to play organized hockey.

“It’s been a great giveback,” said Rob Wilcox, chair of the event. “Our partnership with the Colts has been amazing. They’ve been an amazing sponsor for us for the past 20 years with this event, and so we’re super happy to be able to continue this event year after year.”

The Colts play their next game on Wednesday night against the Storm in Guelph.