Tamara Wong – Grad 2014

When and for how long did you play with the Ravens/RGIH?

My first year with RGIH was in 2003. I was 7 years old and started on a Novice team. I graduated from the Midget A team in 2014, and played an additional year of Juvenile for a total of 12 years in the association.

Why did you start playing?

I’m honestly not sure why I started playing hockey. I think I just wanted a sport to play, so I tried hockey for the first time when I went to an RGIH Intro night that my school was promoting.

What’s your best memory/highlight from being with the Ravens/RGIH?

My best memory with the Ravens came from my first season with the Midget A team when we were able to win the Provincial Championships in Salmon Arm, BC.

What are you up to now/what have you been up to since graduating from the Ravens/RGIH?

Since the Ravens, I have played 4 years of hockey with the Richmond Devils Hockey Club in the South Coast Women’s Hockey League. I have also gone back to the Ravens as an assistant coach with the Midget A team for the past 5 years. Outside of hockey, I have been studying at the University of British Columbia for 5 years, getting my Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology. Having recently graduated from UBC, I am now continuing my education at the University of Toronto and will begin my first year in the Master of Occupational Therapy program.

Why would you recommend girls sign up to play hockey?

I would recommend playing hockey because it allows you to experience things like teamwork, commitment, and hard work, which are skills that will translate to other aspects of life. Even more, it’s a fun sport to play with your friends, and will keep you active.

What prompted your interest in coaching and what advice would you have for girls interested in coaching?

Coaching was a great way for me to transition out of playing Midget A hockey, and gave me the opportunity to give back to a team that had given me so many memorable experiences. For those interested in coaching, I would say that it is a great way to take on a leadership role and be involved in the community. Once you are in a coaching position it really gives you a different perspective on the sport, and helps you appreciate the coaches you have had in the past.