I was sitting in Andy Krol's office last week at St. Joseph's going over some last minute details for the 7th annual Bishop Cup, Krol the long time Panthers assistant coach, shook his head in one of those "can't believe where the time goes moments" when the word seventh came up. Yes, it has been seven years since the dream for this little bragging rights game became a reality. Next Wednesday night at 6:30 the Falcons will try and wrestle the Bishop Cup back to Tyotown Road, from the defending champion Panthers. Considering the early hurdles of getting the first game going, the Bishop Cup has become one of those "circle the date" games and that's exactly what I envisioned, all those years ago. Sure, back then we had the sure fire atmosphere of the old Si, but a few years ago, the Complex proved very accommodating and the game just keeps getting bigger and bigger. As I reminisce about that first game, it's really hard to believe we actually pulled it off. Starting discussions in January for a mid March classic was a daunting task, ice time and planting the seed of making this more than just an exhibition game took some work. The players showed up and gave us a great night before a loud and appreciative group of fans. Funny thing about that night, the first goal was scored at 2:31 of the first period by Falcons Zac Guindon and through six games, it remains as the earliest goal to be scored from the start of a game. Oddly the first goal two years ago was at 2:31 and the only OT goal to date was scored by the Falcons Kevin Dionne at 2:31of the 4th annual game. It is little history moments like this that make the Bishop Cup a tradition, that these kids can be proud of and remember for years to come. I am inviting all the alumni to make an effort to attend and cheer on your school.
For the record, the Panthers have won four Bishop Cups and the Falcons two. This will be the first Bishop Cup to bear the name of our new Bishop, Marcel Damphousse. It's only a twoonie to get in or bring two non perishable food items for St. Vincent de Paul. Puck drops at 6:30.
