Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Last night, I went to my first-ever practice with the now-famous MLA Sharks, the perennial cellar-dwellers in the annual competition with the media. The practice was a very inspiring one. Unfortunately, there were a few absences. The honourable Don "I Am In shape" Morin wasn't there, but we look forward to seeing him there on Friday. The honourable Ed "Hard Luck Bay" Picco was also absent.
--- Laughter
The honourable Levi "Eat My Dust" Barnabas was absent as well. However, the people who were there had a very high energy level and lots of enthusiasm. As for the skill level, let's just say we all tried really hard.
There was an example of intensity of play last night. The honourable Sam "Lumberjack" Gargan had a small collision with Kelvin "Pretty Boy" Ng.
--- Laughter
The result being, Kelvin bravely soldiered on for the rest of the practice with blood dripping down his chin, inspiring us to greater effort and maybe making him realize he should invest in a face mask.
Jim "Elbows" Antoine was there flying about as well, letting everyone know that he was there and ready to play. I can't forget my colleague Roy "Huff And Puff" Erasmus...
--- Laughter
... with his helmet from the 1960s...
--- Laughter
... dribbling foam down his face as he skated valiantly up and down the ice.
--- Laughter
The Member for Hay River, Jane Groenewegen, was there as well giving us all support, especially in the dressing room when she came to watch us all undress.
--- Laughter
Then there was the late David Krutko, our goalie, who showed up once the practice was over.
--- Laughter
I am just grateful that we have, as usual, a very strong staff to support us in our efforts and a coach like Mr. Hamilton. I am confident that tomorrow we will acquit ourselves well. Thank you.
---Applause