Submitted by Jacky Snyder
The tournament started Friday night with a full round robin of all who participated; Newtown, Ohi:yo’, Pinewoods, Tonawanda, Buffalo, Cayuga Lakers and Rochester/Bandits Brigade were the 7 teams represented for this 40 and over Master’s tournament. While one team didn’t show, the guys had a good time exhibitioning in the spirit of the game at the end of the night.
Saturday featured a full day’s events; many fans and spectators joined us and contributed to the 50/50 raffles, Chinese auction and vendors set up throughout the arena. On the last day of the tournament, the smell of Icy Hot was prevalent as everybody was determined to win that prestigious Mr. Man Cup! Tonawanda and Ohi:yo’ faced off for third place which ended in a 2 point game won by Tonawanda.
Following the game, the family hosted a skills competition. Fastest Master was awarded to Nick Benjamin from Ohi:yo’. Hardest shot was awarded to Gregg Miller also from Ohi:yo’. Top Master Goalie Skills was a close race between two, but Findley Wilson pulled through with the win. All winners received beaded golden lacrosse stick medallions made by Jeff’s daughter Jacky.
The final game of the day, was a long time rivalry between Newtown and Pinewoods. Though intense at times, it was definitely worth watching as the scoreboard showed both teams’ determination goal after goal. Ultimately, Newtown Masters took the win with a 1 goal lead over Pinewoods. The entire weekend was filled with many hugs, many stories, and most of all, an overall love and respect for the game in honor and memory of these two brothers.
The conclusion of the tournament featured trophy presentations and speeches by various members of the family and the lacrosse community. Speaking on behalf of the family was Jacky Snyder who thanked everyone for their outpouring show of support for her dad. She presented the tournament awards chosen by Jeff and his siblings. Congratulations to MVP Scott Lay (Newtown), MVP Goalie Howie Lay (Newtown), Sportsmanship Gil Stout Sr, Referee appreciation Clint Doolittle. Tim Cooper, Chucky Brown, Ed Snyder, Louie Laborgne, Findley Wilson and Kervin “Huck” John all spoke and presented the Mr. Man cup as representatives of the Buffalo Indian Athletic Club. Jeff thanked everyone for coming out and said he wished he could be out there playing with the players as well. Finally, Elwin’s eldest daughter Bobbi also thanked the players and fans who came out to come honor and remember her late father.
On behalf of the late Elwin Jones, and Jeff “Jazzy” Snyder, we would like to thank those who helped make this 3rd memorial tournament a success. All proceeds will benefit his brother Jeff relocate to his daughter’s home on the Cattaraugus Reservation, who has been living in a nursing home in Amherst. With the help received, he will have his own place to call “home” with all of the handicap-accessible amenities needed for a comfortable stay.
Thank you all to our sponsors of the tournament:
• SNI President’s Office
• The Family of Kevin White
• Smoke Rings Smoke Shop
• Beege
• Newtown Golden Eagles Sr. B
• Dennis Isaacs
• Paul Winnie
• Michael Smith
• Gil Stout Sr.
• Chickie
Thank you all to those who donated items or for the Chinese auction:
• Can Am Executive Board
• SNI Tribal Council
• SNI Clerks Office
• Rez Creations
• Lester John-Pierce
• Native Pride
• Jan’s Sah da koh nee Restaurant
• LaNova Pizzeria
• Niagara Café
• JoAndy’s Place
• Gary Nephew & Paula Hill
• Sara & Dave Isaac
• Cayuga Agricultural Center
• Cayuga Nation & Tim Twoguns
• Capozzi’s Pizzeria
• Newtown Masters
• Bandits Brigade
• Rochester Rivermonsters
• Joe Hill
• Eddie & Lucille Stevens
• Herbie John
• Mike & Sue Abrams
• Dawn & Peter Gray
• Mona Reuben
• Kelly Wesaw
Finally, thank you all for helping make this tournament a success!!!!
• Tim Cooper
• Courtney John-Jemison
• Nancy Maracle
• Tim Twoguns
• Terry Thompson
• Rhonda Powless & gang
• JD Gardner
• Les Pierce
• Garrick Jimerson
• Clint Doolittle
• John Szabo
• Lee Jimerson, Jr.
• Herbie John
• Frank Wesaw
• Chris Tallchief
(Not pictured: Tonawanda and MVP Goalie: Howie Lay)
