As the Olympic Torch Relay is only a few miles away from its final destination of Vancouver, this morning (February 8th) the torch made its way through Maple Ridge, BC just a few miles outside of host city. 

(Right) 2010 U16 Assistant Coach and Olympic Torch Relay runner Dave Olafson with (left) 2010 U16/U18 Junior Team Canada Assistant GM - Gary Slavin, 'in a 2008 U16/U18 Junior Team Canada jersey'

What made this part of the journey more memorable for ball hockey members across the country is Dave Olafson carried the torch. Olafson was named by the CBHA High Performance Committee back in September 09 as U16 Junior Team Canada Assistant Coach and has been part of BC coaching staffs at the past three Junior National Championships. "I am extremely proud, honored and privileged in having been asked to carry the torch and be part of the 2010 Olympic Spirit and all it represents," said Olafson. 

As Olafson was in the middle of his 300 meter run along Lougheed Highway, he chanted "Go Team Canada" as he ran past some local ball hockey players. Olafson commented before his run, "this torch will be carried for all the kids past, present and future along with our association members, parents, grandparents and supporters involved with minor ball hockey.... Believe!" "Minor ball hockey has been a huge part of my life for the past 8 years and it is fantastic that I can take part in the Olympic Torch Relay knowing that my involvement in minor ball hockey has given me this once in a lifetime opportunity. U16/U18 Junior Team Canada Assistant General Manager,

Gary Slavin was on hand for this special moment. "You don't realize how big this is until you see it for yourself and knowing Dave, it made it that much bigger," said Slavin. "It was great to hear his inspiration for ball hockey as he ran, he kept yelling out 'this is for you Team Canada, Go Team Canada Go' as the flame grew brighter," added Slavin. Olafson concluded by saying, "In brief, I have worked at Simon Fraser University in the Athletic Department for 25+ years, my involvement with past, present and future Olympians, Professional and National Team members has given me the knowledge and experience to able to pass along what I consider to be valuable life lessons on and off the floor."

The next item Olafson hopes to hold high over his head is the U16 World Ball Hockey Championship trophy along with players and staff in the Czech Republic later this year.. "I look forward in working with all the U16 staff members and players to achieve this goal, the roster looks strong and I feel we are ready to take on the World," commented Olafson.