Bismarck “For The Love Of The Game”-As Pure As It Gets ( Photos )

Someone asked me "WHY are you writing an article on this?"

I have a billion reasons WHY, but just one will do - because it is "As pure as it gets". Almost every kid growing up has emulated their favorite heroes and dreamt about scoring the winning touchdown, the sad reality is that MOST will never make it to the pros. They eventually get a job, raise a family, and just stick to watching sports on television. Here in Bismarck, there is a group of people who get together Sunday nights "For The Love Of The Game" -  at the new Capital Ice Complex/Schaumberg Arena and Wachter Arena. Like getting together for coffee at their favorite place, these men and woman of all ages lace up their skates, put on a jersey, and do what they LOVE to do the most - play hockey.

The Bismarck Adult Hockey Slow League

Don't expect a full house of spectators here, but that's the last thing anyone cares about. The sound of a puck barreling into the back of the net is what attracts these people the most. Bill Schmid has been playing in this league for over 25 years, plain and simple - it's his passion. He is one of the older veterans, but once again, nobody cares about your age - if you have the same color jersey as I do, just pass me the puck, will you?

The perfect answer to "WHY" they do this...

...was given by 59-year-old Ray Knutson. "I love the camaraderie of our league, and there are members of our group today that I have skated with for the entire time I have played. We all play hard and as fast as each of us is capable. Our original league was set up as an over-35 league, but that has changed over the years. We have had players who played organized hockey, and some that were just learning to skate. We simply ask that those who have played organized hockey in the past, tone it down and concentrate on passing rather than scoring at will. Our main goal is to have fun and get in a good workout, with no checking or fighting allowed"

Take a couple of seconds and notice the smile on these players' faces - This is what it's all about:

Here is what Bill Schmid said about these cage protectors - "In this league, the goalies are the stars. Gloving a fast puck out mid-air or stopping a breakaway coming in from the blue line is exciting to see no matter which team you are on"

I'll leave you with this 37-second video

What better way than to get together with your friends, and play the sport you love? To laugh, to fall, to feel your blood flow in good healthy sportsmanship - These men and women are my new heroes.