It’s the biggest weekend of the season for Richmond Ringette and no family will be busier than the Takasakis.
The 23rd annual West Coast Classic will feature 73 teams from throughout B.C. and Alberta doing battle over three days. To accommodate so many, all six rinks at the Richmond Ice Centre will be utilized, along with some ice time at Minoru Arenas and even Tilbury in Delta.
Laura Takasaki is the longtime tournament director. It’s just a tip of her involvement in a sport that has been a big part of her life since she started playing in her hometown when she was six. The 41-year-old also serves on the Ringette B.C. executive and is actively involved in the development and promotion of the game.
Her husband Troy will be busy coaching two teams — including a talented U19A squad that includes their daughters Hailey and Tayah. Richmond is looking for its third tournament win of the season that includes a rare triumph for a B.C. team in Edmonton. They will be a serious gold medal contender at the provincials in early March.
Troy also oversees an open age team — coaching many of the same players when he began this unexpected journey over 20 years ago.
He grew up playing basketball and was an assistant coach at the high school level when his future wife convinced him to come out.
“I was 19 at the time and we were looking for a coach,” recalled Laura.
With little knowledge of the game, Troy figured he could portray the role until he learned more.
“Originally, I wanted to just stand behind the bench but, of course, I’m competitive. After watching the game, I realized it’s a lot like basketball with a 30 second clock and how the teams format in the zones. I started pulling these players aside to learn what to do in different situations,” said Troy.
“I was very lucky in that one of the girls I had in my first year was coaching a younger ‘AA’ team and running camps too. I got a lot of knowledge from her and her dad who became my assistant coach.”
When a national team player joined his squad, it presented another opportunity to enhance his game and practice plans.
Troy also worked with Dennis Minns for six years — the legendary coach who lost his battle to cancer in 2012. His daughters Meghan and Carly are still playing for him.
“I learned a lot from Dennis and all the players through the years. I was very lucky to have great coaches and players help me and I’m one of those persons that really wanted to learn the game,” continued Troy.
When Hailey and Tayah were old enough to play, it was Laura who initially guided the team. That was until she called a parent meeting one night and Troy stepped in to run a practice. There would be no turning back.
It has given Laura the time to be involved with the younger age groups. She is currently coaching a U7 team and tirelessly promoting ringette.
“My passion is the younger ones. I just want kids to come and try it and I love getting them involved. We started a gym program and are going to different schools. I wanted people to know what the sport is all about.”
For more information on Richmond Ringette visit www.richmondringette.com.
