2008 Inductees

Berwick-Canning Tween Ringette Team 1989-90

Berwick Ringette was in its infancy in 1989 when the Berwick/Canning Tween team was formed. The Association had developed teams in the younger age groups and was in the process of icing a team in the twelve-fourteen age group. However, there were just not enough local players; coincidentally the Canning Association was experiencing the same situation. It made sense to Marlene Connell to contact Gary Pearl with the Canning group to form one team. According to Marlene, “What is incredible about this team is how the two Associations combined to make this happen.”

The Ringette Association's provincial championship was hosted by Berwick for the first time. After a solid season of playing teams throughout the province, the Tween team was entered in the ‘C’ Championship with teams from Dartmouth, East River, Mabou, and Sackville.

The event was not to go smoothly. At the Thursday practice before the tournament, tragedy struck. Coach Marlene slipped on the ice and seriously broke her ankle, landing her in the hospital for the entire weekend. Perhaps this was inspiration as the team went through round robin play undefeated with Gary Pearl as the only bench boss. They now had to face Dartmouth in the rematch. It was a seesaw battle with Berwick/Canning leading 1-0, then Dartmouth went ahead 2-1. Next, Berwick/Canning tied it at 2. Dartmouth scored late in the first half to go ahead 3-2. Dartmouth struck early in the second frame for a 4-2 lead. The determined squad fought back and, with 4 minutes remaining in the game, had the score 4 each. The go-ahead came quickly and Berwick/Canning held on to a 5-4 lead, fighting off several Dartmouth surges. The game ended with Berwick/Canning being declared the 1990 Nova Scotia Tween 'C' Champions.

After winning the Provincial Banner, the team was also awarded the Team Sportsmanship Award, a well-deserved accomplishment. In addition, not only were the Tweens successful as provincial champions, but the Petites won their respective division as well that same weekend in Berwick. This group of players was the first of a continuous number of players to go on to play provincially and at the Canada Games level. The Ringette dynasty had begun.

1989/90 Berwick/Canning Tween Ringette Team

Coaches: Marlene Connell, Gary Pearl

Angela Deal
Cathy Grimm
Heather Elliot
Tracy Kane
Jennifer Saunders
Kelly Kinsman
Sarah Pearl
Tanya Cleveland
Tara McBride
Rhonda Connell
Danielle Boudreau
Tenille Surette
Gillian Parker
Rochelle Simpson

It is with pride that the 1989/90 Berwick/Canning Tween Ringette Team is recognized by the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame.

Inducted June 2008