Julie Smith

“Ringette has been a very important part of my life for 35 years. A friend of mine dragged me to a practice when I was 11 and I never looked back – this was when we had assigned stick colours, I was a red stick – and in fact most of my career has been at defense. Ringette has been a constant presence in my life. I dabbled in all possible roles; including one memorable year as a referee (yikes I’ll never do that again!). Playing ringette, reffing, coaching, executive member, Team Canada, learning facilitator, instructor…but always, unless motherhood prevented it, I played – and still do. My involvement in ringette has provided me with so many important life skills that have helped my personal development in innumerable ways. No matter how hard things got, I always had ringette to lean on. That magical time in the dressing room and on the ice, it is the only time when nothing else matters. I’ve been to every province, to the states and as far as Finland, thanks to ringette. I conquered a fear of flying, again, thanks to ringette. I have met so many amazing people – an international network. There is something special about this sport played only by girls with speed, teamwork, decision-making and bonding – it encourages me to work harder, reach higher, and have the confidence to be successful at life. Thank you Sam Jacks for your vision, and Agnes Jacks for your devotion.” – Julie Smith (Pointe Claire, Quebec)