Walker did not receive one of the coveted invitations. However, he was selected as an alternate player in the event one of the goalies was unable to play due to injury or dropping out.

As fate would have it, the team representing the north was in need of a goalie. Walker was asked if he would consider playing for them.

Walker jumped at the chance. He was happy to change jerseys for an opportunity to participate in the games.

The MWG tournament took place from March 2-4, involving eight teams – two from the west, two from the south, two from Winnipeg and one each from the east and the north. In those three days, Walker’s team played four games (two round-robin games and two playoff games), with Walker starting two of them. In one of the other games, he entered at the midway point to relieve the starting goalie.

All the games were close and competitive, but unfortunately, his team fell short each time. The tournament was eventually won by one of the west teams.

The losing record in no way dampened Walker’s enthusiasm. He loved the athletes’ village in R.D. Parker Collegiate, hanging out with his new teammates from the north. He enjoyed the bus trip from Brandon to Thompson with other athletes from the area, including six of his teammates from the Southwest AA Cougars. 

 “It was lots of fun,” Walker said. “I really liked it! And it was really well-run. I really enjoyed the experience with my teammates.”

The MWG may not have been the Winter Olympics, but for Walker and his family, it was pretty close.

by PAUL KIMBALL