Ringette's Ambassador Agnes Jacks
passed away
April 1, 2005
On Thursday March 17, 2005 I had the pleasure of sitting besides Agnes for the Opening Ceremonies at the UOV Provincial "A" Championships in Pembroke. Agnes was lifted to the podium in her wheelchair and a blanket was draped over her knees. Agnes settled in to be part of the celebration. The procession of players and coaches ensued with about one half of the players and coaches located to Agnes' left and a bit behind her. As the ceremonies progressed, Agnes took my arm in a matriarchal manner and was adamant that I do what I needed to make sure that all her girls be in front of her when it was her turn to speak. Following Agnes' directions I excused my self and went and spoke to a few of the coaches that I knew and passed on Agnes' instructions. Agnes' wishes were seen to and as Agnes addressed her girls for the last time, I do not believe there was a dry eye in the building. As G&T chair for the event I had a very hard act to follow! Fortunately all I needed to do was declare the Event open. The scene that followed was absolutely magical. For the next 45 minutes Agnes was engulfed by a sea of players from every team and region in attendance. The players were having pictures taken and Agnes was signing anything and everything that players were putting in front of her. Agnes was adamant that every one of her girls had the opportunity to have a visit.
Agnes was a true inspiration and a wonderful ambassador for our GREAT GAME
Rest in peace,
Bob Swan
ORA G&T
Thank you, Sam, for the great sport of Ringette
Without the foresight shown by Mr. Sam Jacks with his idea for a winter
ice sport for girls, we would not have a game that we could call
our own. Through the years, the game has continued to evolve, rules
have been fine-tuned and we can now boast that we are
the "Fastest Game on Ice".
Thank you, Sam!
Portrait is the property of West Ferris Ringette
For complete story on history of our sport click here.
