This message was written by our Team Historian, Bob Cummings in September 2021 as the hockey club celebrated their 50th Anniversary.
The Elmira Sugar Kings have been a part of the sports scene since 1971. This came out of a desire from local sports and business people for skilled hockey players who wanted to play at a greater level other than Minor Hockey without leaving town. Their goal was to give local kids a chance to play Junior Hockey at Home.
I had the honour to be part of this hockey club from day one starting as a timekeeper and doing stats. As a result, I have kept the annual records of the team and now our archives fill 70 binders. The team’s history has been a real roller coaster ride for local hockey fans. There have been great accomplishments in past winnings of the Cherrey Cup and Sutherland Cup.
The Kings have met the goal of the founding fathers in achieving competitive hockey at the Junior level. Over 185 former Kings have moved on to play at a higher level of hockey. 50+ players in Junior A, 10 in the NHL, 62 Semi-Pro, 85 in Sports (CIS), 55 in NCAA, 27 in Europe, and 38 as coaches. Many are graduates of the Waterloo and surrounding area programs.
Hockey as a team sport provides players with discipline and strong work ethics to achieve their goals. Outside of hockey many former Kings have moved on to successful careers as doctors, lawyers, and business owners. As part of the Kings family, I hope that along the way I have helped the players as an educational consultant to their schooling.
Since 1997 I have produced a Yearbook for the players. For the 25th and 40th anniversary of the Kings, I wrote a history book that now resides in the Hockey Hall of Fame. In maintaining the Alumni List, I often have the opportunity to speak to the past players and reminisce about their time as a King. It is always great to see Alumni at events, reunions, and at the golf tournament. I know the Alumni hold a special place in their hearts from their time as a Sugar King.
For me, I have so many memories of my time, the greatest was our first championship and the joy on the players faces. I’m proud of the Elmira Sugar Kings for all of their past accomplishments. Players make friendships that they have the rest of their lives. My wife Alva and I have travelled all over to watch our former players at the next level.
The Sugar Kings are well respected in the hockey circles for their dedication and strong leadership that will keep the organization strong for years to come. Our team is developed with a family atmosphere. I’m sure the future will be the same and the motto goes…”Once a King, Always a King”.
