JOHN THERIAULT PRESENTS THE CHAPLEAU INTERMEDIATE "A" HUSKIES - A TEAM FOR ALL SEASONS

The Chapleau Intermediate "A" Huskies, who came to be known simply as "The Intermediates" were important players, in community life, both on and off the ice, from their founding in 1974 until they played their last game in the Northland Intermediate Hockey League in 1979.

John Theriault kindly provided the photos you see here that capture part of what life was like with them during those years.

They were an integral part of my life, and I hope as you look at the photos, you will have fond memories of "The Intermediates" --- the team for all seasons!

Let me just add that while I am most closely associated with the team, it was Doug Prusky, who was either coaching  or managing the team, as we changed roles at times, that brought them their greatest on ice success.

I am bringing up the rear as the players participate in "A Taste of the North", the Chapleau Winter Carnival.

I am going to leave it to you to identify the players -- at least for the most part!

Rub a dub dub, three men in a tub.

The Intermediates participated in many summer activities, including the annual Summerfest sponsored by the Festival Chapleau Committee. Yes, that is Graham Bertrand on the right -- the team's trainer.

On the ice and on the ballfield behind the Chapleau Civic Centre, The Intermediates could always attract a crowd. Were you there watching RP?

Those donkeys could be ornery critters just like the Timmins North Stars. We faced them four times in the NIHL semi-finals and finally beat them in the fourth attempt. It was like we had won the Stanley Cup.

Looks like Ron Larcher has his work cut out for him here. In the background you can see the  golf clubhouse and Dr. G.E. Young's boathouse.

Over you go! Up! Up! And away!


When I was in first year at Wilfrid Laurier University in 1960, I was the organizer with some of my buddies of a bed push from London to Waterloo. We set a world record

The best we could do in Chapleau was have bed  races down main street. I got to ride on one bed and the guys made me wear a helmet.

Ernie Gilbert, a long time Chapleau councillor, and a great hockey fan, on the left, was Carnival King. I am there with Ernie and Bonhomme because at the time I was reeve (mayor) of Chapleau.

Once again to John Theriault, thanks for the memories and for letting me share your photos here.

I just can't resist closing with a comment Jamie Doyle made to me, "Chief, we were a real good hockey team, and would have been even better if we had ever had a practice with everyone there." Indeed Jamie, and that's a story for another day.