The Atom Triple “A” Minor Trappers got a big surprise in North Bay Thursday night. Former NHL’er Steve Larmer dropped by the West Ferris Arena just as the eight and nine year olds were getting ready for practice. The former Chicago Blackhawk and New York Ranger right winger posed for pictures with the young players. Then he stuck around and gave them some basic hockey tips including shooting the puck and passing. He stressed the fundamentals because that’s what you need to teach young players. Needless to add, the players were surprised with Larmer’s visit. As for youngsters playing hockey today, Larmer’s advice is the same that he got when growing up, and that’s to enjoy the game. He said it was never work for him and it’s something he had a passion for as a youngster. Larmer says having a passion for the game is something you can’t teach that’s why he stresses enjoy the game above all else. Scotiabank sponsored the event as part of its kids’ community hockey program across Canada.
