MISSISSAUGA, ONT -- It was
billed as North America's largest hockey expo and it certainly lived up to its billing. The first annual Hockey Expo at the
International Center in Mississauga, Ontario Canada brought over 100 businesses from the hockey world in one location for
fans, players, parents, coaches as well league and team executives. There were jersey companies, skate sharpening businesses, hockey associations, on-line scoring businesses that had well
organized displays. Synthetic ice companies also were on hand showing off their technology, and even one group allowed players
to take turns skating on it. Children could take turns shooting the puck to test their accuracy and speed and there were
seminars ranging from food concessions, to injuries and even how to clean hockey equipment. Several hockey celebrities
were also in attendance to sign free autographs and even promote their books. Guests include hockey broadcaster Nick Kypreos,
former Hockey Night In Canada producer Ralph Mellanby, former NHL players Steve Ludzik, Ron Ellis, Dennis Maruk, Gary Leeman,
as well as Canadian Olympic Women's hockey gold medalists Jayna Hefford and Vicky Sunohara. Enjoy some of the photos
that were taken of this first annual event that will grow in popularity every year.
Dr. Joel Bunn of Bunn Sports Gear was one of the many guest speakers during The
Hockey Expo. He spoke about MRSA Infections in Athletes. Bunn Sports Gear was featuring a hockey airflow self-drying equipment
hanger and organizer.
Many companies that sold hockey equipment such as jerseys, sticks, blades,
hockey tape, bags were at the show. Families, players could buy equipment on site at the event.
One of the big hits at The Hockey Expo was the Synthetic Ice which is becoming popular
for players to train on during the off-season. Skate 365 Synthetic Ice even gave children an opportunity to try on skates
and then go test out the ice. The sheet of synthetic ice was available for purchase once the show had concluded.
The Hockey Hall Of Fame located in beautiful downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada was
at The Hockey Expo. They had on display the Lady Byng Trophy as well as goalie masks from several big names including Martin
Brodeur of the New Jersey Devils.Fans could even test their knowledge with hockey trivia and win prizes.
The children had a blast testing their speed and accuracy at the many shooting stations that were
set up. There was quite a line-up at this location for youngsters to take their turn.
The Ontario Hockey Association had a large display of championship trophies such as the Sutherland
Cup for the team that wins the OHA Junior B title. There were also old photos on display that fans could look at, and a video.
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