First Market Days Classic a success

by Ross Forman, Windy City Times

About 30 Chicagoans played in the inaugural Market Days Classic ice hockey tournament, held Aug. 12-14 in suburban Lincolnwood, as the Chicago Gay Hockey Association (CGHA) fielded two teams among the eight participating.

The three-day tournament attracted 150, which included players and guests, including skaters from Boston, Toronto, Ottawa, Vancouver, New York City and Denver, among other cities.

“The tournament was a ton of fun. It seemed like everyone had a great time and, most important, everyone loved the city of Chicago,” said Andrew Sobotka, 25, the president of the CGHA. “The entire tournament was fast-paced and action-packed. It could have been any team taking home the medals because the games were so tight.”

Take, for instance, the playoff game between Vancouver and Ottawa that ended 7-7 after overtime and went to a shootout before Ottawa ultimately won.

Toronto, though, won the championship in the top-tiered Northside Division, while Boston won the Southside Division.

“Both Chicago teams placed third after the round-robin games and then we both lost in the playoff round,” Sobotka said. “While it is always fun to win, we don’t mind losing since we have so much fun along the way.”

Brian Hull, who played on the Chicago 312 team, was the leading scorer on his team, while the Chicago Crew had several players scoring multiple goals.

“I think every night of social events presented something different and were fun in their own right,” Sobotka said. “The Market Days festival was a big draw for everyone and I think people really enjoyed seeing the city.”

Sobotka said the CGHA donated $250 to the Dr. Peter Centre, which does care and outreach for people with HIV/AIDS.

“I just want to thank every player, guest, sponsor and volunteer for coming to play and enjoy Chicago,” Sobotka added.