On a recent shopping trip to where else – a sports shop, I noticed it had changed ownership. Rod has since moved on, but he was honest and ran a great store.
Upon inquiring I was told it was a change for the better for the outgoing shop.
One individual who worked at the location decided he wanted to venture out and own his own business, so he took over and is working long hours to make it a success.
Knowing him on a personal basis – I know he will do just fine. Change in all areas is good and depending on his approach, it could just work.
I have had work on equipment done by him before and he continues to sharpen my skates. Strange, but I have never had a problem from him.
Nothing is more frustrating when you get your skates sharpened and you are missing an edge, and the shop is closed or you are no where near the store.
At this point it’s only frustration and this clearly doesn’t help.
The change is at the Great Pacific Forum in Delta and formerly known as Cyclone Taylor’s the new name to remember is “Rocket Rods”. It might take a while, but it’s catchy!
Owner Rod Moore has agreed to assist “Sportswave” and the athlete’s in a variety of areas. He will be giving tips to you concerning a variety of areas.
His expertise in the sports industry will prove to be worth while and beneficial to you if you chose to use them. So relax and put the “tips” to use – it’s of benefit to you.
When sizing and fitting new hockey equipment for you or your kids a couple of basic guidelines may help.
First – don’t buy everything and anything two sizes too big in the hopes that it will last that extra year, just in the name of saving a dollar!
As an example, helmets and face cages need to be an exact fit for safety reasons and – as per the rules. A loose helmet won’t protect anyone from anything if it falls off or shifts out of position.
The nice thing about helmets is that they all adjust.
But in the name of safety and a note to the parents – please ensure the chin strap is properly fastened.
This can be completed by adjusting the chin strap so it will not come over the players chin.
If is comes over the chin it is clearly too loose and hopefully the game officials will have it properly fastened and not overlook it!
Accidents can and will happen – so take the necessary precautions prior to having one happen.
Note to game officials – if the players do not properly fix it, let the Coach know. He should be pleased you did. It all is in the name of safety!
Skates need to be no more than half an inch larger than actual foot size (for growing room only) otherwise you may end up with blisters or worse yet that clumsy collapsing at the ankle skating style you see on so many beginners.
If it’s a fully grown individual that’s being fit up for new skates than there shouldn’t be any growing room, just your heel right in the back and your toe brushing against the toe cap.
The shoulder pads, elbow pads and shin pads can all have a bit of growing room but again, to be most effective and comfortable they need to be as close a fit as possible.
Gloves and pants probably have the most room to work with. If you fit into a 13″ glove you can get away with a 14″ as well.
It doesn’t affect the safety provided the glove isn’t too large it won’t stay on the hand. The way the glove interacts with the elbow pad is probably more important.
Pants can also be a size too big without any safety hazards being of major concern.
They just become difficult for the individual to skate in if they are too big and can also become awkward.
Small items like neck guards and cups need to be an exact fit – no exception!
Next time you are in the area – tell Rod “sportswave” sent you! Oh –
Congratulation on the store Rod!
