NOTE: Shauna Fukes and Cheryl MacPherson are co-managers of the New
Glasgow Bombers, an Atom team in New Glasgow, N.S., that is part of the
atoMc Hockey program.
After the success we had with the atoMc program last year, and a visit by
Tessa Bonhomme where she spoke of taking lessons learned about teamwork and
sportsmanship to the community, we decided to do just that!
On Remembrance Day, after the formal ceremonies, our atoMc team met at the
home of the widow of a World War veteran. Armed with rakes and gloves - and
cookies and bags provided by our McDonald's atoMc sponsor – we set off to
clear a large lot for a deserving individual.
Helen MacDonald is the widow of Hughie MacDonald, who passed in October
2014. He served in Italy during World War II from June 1942 to February
1946, and played senior hockey in Nova Scotia in the 1940s and 1950s (even
playing at Maple Leaf Gardens during Allan Cup playoff action).
Hughie was also an accomplished coach, leading the Trenton Scotians to the
Maritime Junior B championship in 1952.
As a start-of-the-season team builder, our team decided to go into the
community and spread the Golden Jersey message. On Remembrance Day, who
deserves the Golden Jersey more than the family of a veteran?
Who is a better representative of a team than a soldier and his partner
left at home, with a family that supports and a community that welcomes
them home?
Helen was delighted, and surprised, to watch a “little army” of atoMc
players attack the leaves on her property. She was so thankful and
appreciative.
On Remembrance Day, we are so thankful and appreciative for not only
Hughie’s service, but Helen’s as well. You see, in order to do amazing
things you have to be surrounded by an amazing team.
Thank you to Larry and Stephanie from McDonald's in New Glasgow for
providing supplies, sustenance and support, and a special thanks to
restaurant manager Michelle ‘Mick’ Corcoran, who is always an important
part of our team.