Owen Sound is ready for the a battle on the ice.

Below is a letter on behalf of Mayor Ian Boddy, Council and the Senior Management team from the City of Owen Sound issued to London Mayor, Matt Brown and Council.

The challenge has been issued, battle lines have been formed and the City of Owen Sound is prepared for Game 1 this evening at the Bayshore Community Centre.

Your Worship Mayor Matt Brown and Council:

It was a pleasure speaking to you this week.

One of the many great things about Junior Hockey is that despite varying size differences and demographics the Ontario Hockey League markets, the game is still played in a 200 x 85-foot rink by young men giving it their all for the name on the front of their jersey. And before you (or your coaching staff) calls to question the size of the Bayshore ice surface, it is 200 x 85 so let us get that out of the way good and early in this matchup between one of the Ontario Hockey League's biggest cities and the league's smallest (but loudest) market.

We have confidence in our team and this group of young men. So much confidence, that I am willing to put a selection of products from our Grey-Bruce craft breweries, cider producers as well as some amazing smoked fish from the Saugeen Ojibway Nation on the line for this opening round matchup.

Owen Sound was the last city in Cañada to end prohibition, doing so just as Bobby Orr was winding down an incredible career. Therefore, we are catching up in the market with great beverages from Kilannan Brewing, Maclean's Ales, Outlaw Brew Co., Neustadt Springs Brewery, and ciders from Coffin Ridge Winery. Mudtown Station Brew Pub is set to open in our historic CP train station beside our picturesque harbour in a short while.
Given our public display of confidence in the Attack, I am sure that you, the London Council will never get a chance to taste any of these fine beverages unless you choose to travel here yourself. Which we strongly encourage you and everyone else in your community to do as visitors are always welcome!

Don't get us wrong, we are fond of your famous Labatt Brewery and its many flavours - but a beverage won in the spirit of a friendly wager always tastes better than a beverage bought, so we hope you and your fellow council members take part in our offering.

If there was any doubt of our commitment, please know that we stand with our team. Mayor, Council, senior management and the rest of the City of Owen Sound.

Losing is never an enjoyable experience, but you will have the consolation prize of cheering on a couple of fine, young London natives in Nick Suzuki and Ethan Szypula for the remainder of the playoffs. We are very proud of the fine athletes your City has produced and gratefulfor the work they have done in our community.

Sincerely,

Ian C. Boddy
Mayor, City of Owen Sound