Melissa Lapalme

“I joined ringette as a teenager, but low numbers forced teams to fold. I hadn’t heard of ringette in years, but one of my daughters came home from school asking to try it. I soon realized that I wanted to play an active role in promoting the sport and became involved in the Sudbury Ringette Association. Within the association, I served as secretary, ref in chief, coaching coordinator, and eventually president where I am currently serving my fourth year. I have and currently coach at either the house league, provincial, or AA Level and sit on the Northeast regional board as vice-president. I have assisted at our annual tournament for the past eight years. I decided last year to become an official as well. I’ve had the opportunity to work with many like-minded individuals who are also interested in advancing the sport. One of the biggest challenges has been bringing people together to grow the sport. Helping develop players to become the best competitors and players they could be has been my motivation. Ringette has given back and has enriched my life in many ways. I truly enjoy having the opportunity to teach players new skills and witness their development. Ringette has given me quality time and memories with my daughters, that I could not imagine having otherwise. We have spent countless hours together travelling to tournaments, practicing, and competing. When I think of the word ringette, the words that come to mind are fun, friendship and teamwork.” – Melissa Lapalme (Sudbury, Ontario)