"It started as an idea between two high school friends now, a GTA fantasy hockey league is about to celebrate its 50th anniversary. The Kooly Memorial Draft has evolved from friends scribbling on a paper bag in a bar to a modern league that has drawn in sons, coworkers, and even the family of a Stanley Cup champion. "The special part is the friendships we've kept over the years," said Jim Barclay, draft commissioner and one of the two original members."
"It has had many homes throughout its lifetime, notably the Armstrong Camp, a cottage property that belonged to the late Toronto Maple Leafs captain George Armstrong, who, along with two of his sons, was a drafter. "The first time we had the draft up there in 2005 we were drafting by candlelight." said Brian Armstrong, one of George's sons. "Eventually we got a generator in there because of the transition from paper to computer."
The Kooly Memorial Draft began between two high school friends and is now approaching its 50th anniversary as a Greater Toronto Area fantasy hockey league. The league evolved from scribbling names on a paper bag in a bar to a modern draft that includes sons, coworkers, and relatives of professional players. Jim Barclay serves as draft commissioner and remains one of the original members, emphasizing enduring friendships. The draft is named for late member Mike Kukulewich and traditionally takes place the weekend before the NHL season. The league has used venues such as the Armstrong Camp and transitioned from paper to computerized scoring.
Read at www.cbc.ca
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