WINNER
George Matwychuk
of Fort McMurray, Alta.
Watch their story
The banter across the backyard fence this summer, "Could last year's Noel family backyard rink get any bigger?" With two boys at the Matwychuk house, five boys at the Noel house, and three kids across the street, the rink had to be expanded.

In September, the joking became reality as rink construction began. The fence was torn down between the two yards and was expanded to cover both backyards. But there was one obstacle to deal with, a tree. It stayed and is known as Woody, the extra defenceman. You better keep your head up!

The boards were dug into the ground and painted white, benches and spotlights were also added. The first emblem to be painted on the boards was the Montreal Canadiens and since this is a neighbourhood rink, Toronto Maple Leafs somehow appeared later. Ice preparation started in November and finished in December when the lines were added.

What had started as a joke became a dream come true for ten young kids and two Dads. As the families got together and skated, it became evident that all the work was well worth it. Now we truly are Canadian!

We will worry about putting the fence back in the Spring!

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