Broomball is experiencing a resurgence in Makkovik, Newfoundland, much to the delight of residents in the area. The sport, which involves playing on ice without skates, was once a popular pastime at the town’s outdoor rink until its closure in 1996, leading to a decline in its popularity over the years.
In January, the Makkovik Arena allocated ice time for broomball, sparking optimism among locals for a revival of the sport. Laura Martin, the recreation director, mentioned that the idea stemmed from community discussions and social media interactions, prompting them to give it a try with the available equipment.
The goal now is to establish regular broomball nights and engage younger community members in learning the game from experienced players. Barbara Andersen, a seasoned broomball player, reminisced about the sport’s heyday when the town had multiple men’s, women’s, and youth teams competing on the outdoor rink.
During the recent game in Makkovik, 18 players, ranging from 12-year-olds to individuals in their 60s, participated, including Andersen playing alongside her family members. While some players were novices, Andersen’s experience shone through as she guided them in the game.
The buzz surrounding broomball in the community has been growing, with many expressing excitement about the sport’s return. Martin highlighted the mix of nervousness and eagerness among participants, emphasizing the learning opportunities from seasoned players.
In the past, broomball teams from Makkovik used to travel to Newfoundland for tournaments, with some even competing at regional and national levels. The revival of broomball in Makkovik has reignited interest in the sport and its potential for community engagement and competition.