Hockey on Third Parade scores big in Marquette

Squirts, Pee-wees, junior hockey players, NMU hockey players, a few old-timers and some former semi-pro players all charged Third Street in Marquette today for the fifth annual Hockey on Third Parade.

The parade, of course, was for hockey lovers and supporters, but with the entertainment that came with this march, it was time to pucker up. Everyone was in the zone as the spirit of Marquette faced off in support of the Old Timers Hockey Tournament.

Pom-pom dancers, bicycling gorillas and kids throwing candy made the day a fun one.

“Hockey is awesome, I like protecting the net and not letting the puck go in, just trying to win. I got the most goals last year so hockey is just awesome,” said Owen Riipi, 10 years old.

“I love watching hockey because I get to see my brothers win and seeing them happy. The parade is a lot of fun, you get candy and stuff like that,” said Bella Deemattia, 11 years old.

Goofus got things started as the parade kicked off at the NMU parking lot, headed down Third Street, over to Ash Street and then back to NMU. The parade started just five years ago and today has 30 teams.

“Police officers and fire trucks are leading the way down the route. We have downtown businesses area non–profit groups involved, plenty of hockey teams. This event started with a group of people who had a passion and moved it forward to create this wonderful event,” said Lizzie Corser, Marquette Downtown Development Authority.

The Old Timers Hockey Tournament kicked off tonight at the Lakeview Arena and ends on Sunday with the championship games. The tournament does include some novice as well as women games. For the full schedule visit, www.mqtbeerleaguehockey.webs.com.