Woodstock Minor Hockey Association says auctions preserve memories and raise funds, but some families argue the banners belong in the arena, not in private hands
The Woodstock Minor Hockey Association (WMHA) is auctioning off some of its older banners, and the move is drawing mixed reaction.
The idea came from WMHA Treasurer Margo Dickinson. The board had been looking for sustainable ways to raise money for a new scoreboard at the AYR Motor Centre.
Nathan Stokes, the WMHA President, says the responses have been nothing but positive. He noted that the auction has even generated conversations about memories.
“People have been sharing memories, reconnecting with former coaches and teammates, and talking about the experiences those teams and seasons represent. It has highlighted just how much history and meaning these banners hold for our hockey community, including people who are no longer living in the area,” said Stokes.
The hockey association has listed banners from 2006 to 2014 online and is asking for bids. The auction will close on Sept. 13 at 8 p.m. local time.
However, Brent Clark is a former minor hockey coach, assistant coach, and former WMHA board member; he’s also the parent of three daughters who played minor hockey in Woodstock. He says he’s never heard of this happening elsewhere and is disappointed that the association auctioned the banner.
“Everything the teams did was funded by fees or money raised by teams to cover costs. Teams earned the banners through hard work and commitment from coaches and players. The banners were presented to the Civic Centre to be displayed and viewed for years to come,” Clark told the River Valley Sun.
“They are part of town history and a reminder of childhood memories and milestones in shaping our youth. They still serve as a reminder of accomplishments and friendships formed, as well as a tribute to people who are no longer here.”
Alana Bowden-Ball, the Communications Officer for the Town of Woodstock, said the banners were reviewed for age, condition, and cleanliness. The WMHA agreed to remove any banners over 10 years old. Instead of disposing of the banners, the WMHA was given the opportunity to conserve banners.
Bowden-Ball says the association then decided that auctions were the best option, as they could raise funds and pass the banners on to interested players or families.
Stokes sees the auctions as a thoughtful and sustainable way to manage the association’s history and resources. He believes auctioning the banners benefits current and future players while giving people the opportunity to “take home a piece of Woodstock hockey history.”
“We have a finite amount of space to recognize past accomplishments, while every year new players and teams are creating their own memories and achievements,” said Stokes.
