The Dauphin Clippers hockey team is on a roll to start the season.
After opening the campaign with an 8-1 drubbing against Virden, the Clippers put up a seven-spot against the Neepawa Tigers. Come Friday, the team will hit ice for their third game of the year as they host the Sandy Bay Badgers. And while two big points are up for grabs, Friday's contest will be bigger than just a game.
For the second year in a row, Norman Lacquette has organized 'Every Child Matters'. This event is about bringing everyone together. Norman grew up in Mallard and once moving to Dauphin, had to deal with many racist remarks and all he truly wants is for everyone to come together.
"Racism is something that has impacted my life, I was bullied. Some days I came home crying and there were many days that I didn't want to go to school," said Lacquette. "I want to spread awareness. There is so much hate and that upsets me. We need to have the ability to work together to make our community great."
Norman says he loves Dauphin but he knows some people are hurting.
Friday's game against Sandy Bay will begin with ceremonies at 12:45 p.m. followed by puck drop 15 minutes later. Schools in Dauphin have been invited as Credit Union Place is expected to be packed for the annual game.
This is Norman's second year with the Clippers and he's thrilled to represent the Green & White.
"It means a lot to me to wear the school logo on my chest, I'm very passionate about it," said Lacquette. "We take great pride in hitting the ice to win hockey games and bring a championship banner to our gym. We have an incredible fanbase behind us."
While Sandy Bay (0-0) has yet to hit the ice for a game, Friday's contest marks the start of a busy month for the team as they'll play eight times in November. Dauphin (2-0) will also play eight league games in November, four of which come at Credit Union Place.
"We're looking very strong to start the year, we have a great group of guys and we're close in the dressing room," ended Lacquette. "I believe we can achieve special things this year."
The Vincent Massey Vikings have set the pace so far with nine straight wins to start the season, scoring 74 goals.
