Interview with Steve Posavec

1. As a past President of the CBHA, what where some of the key things that were done, started or completed in your tenure?
There were a few I was very proud of … the biggest one was being part of the group involved in the creation of the International Ball Hockey Federation and the first ever World Ball Hockey Championships. Another one was being able to help guide Quebec and Manitoba back into the Canadian Ball Hockey Association after they drifted away … look at them now, two of the strongest Provincial groups in Canada.  Being involved in the decision to create the “B” or Tier Two Westerns was also something I was happy to be part of. The Westerns-Easterns have become a big part of the CBHA. 

2. Alberta has always been a huge part of the CBHA.  What do you feel your home province has done in years past and will provide in years ahead?
Alberta’s contributions to the sport have been many … we were strong supporters when the Women’s Nationals were formed, we fought hard for the creation of the Western B & C Championships, and we have been proud hosts of 6 Adult Nationals, 2 Junior Nationals,  and 9 Men’s Western B-C events. Our kids program is one of the strongest in Canada. Look for many more great contributions from Alberta in the future… there are a lot of good people involved behind the scenes
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3. What did it mean to you to be a CBHA President?
It was an honor to be part of the CBHA Executive for 5 years. Being able to contribute back to the sport that gave me so much, it really meant a lot to me. I always tried to be fair to everyone, and my open and honest policy was something I was proud of. My mentor was Gerry Crewe of Newfoundland … he was a man of integrity and honor, and he taught me a lot about dealing with people. He passed away last year, and I do miss my friend … I hope he is inducted into the CBHA Hall-of-Fame in the near future.

4. What was your favorite Nationals and why?
Hard to pick just one … 1990 in St. John’s was my first trip to Newfoundland. I went early and was able to see so many great parts of the Province. Watching the final in an old arena packed with over 2,000 fans was tremendous.  1991 in Edmonton, watching the success of Edmonton teams as we won 3 of the 6 medals up for grabs. The western theme banquet was a huge hit and everyone had a great time. 1988 in Moncton, great hospitality by the hosts, and the level of play was outstanding. Edmonton Old Abbey won their first ever Women’s National title and the great party that took place later that night was very memorable.

5. As a expert of our game what players and charachters made a impact on you?
I have had the pleasure of watching so many great players play at Nationals, on the Men’s and Women’s side. A few players that top my list include Shirley Cameron-Angela James-Val Dion on the Women’s side, while on the Men’s side, Rick Magee-Michel Perodeau-Claudio Lessio were tremendous players. Not only were they great players, they were tremendous leaders.  I also had a lot of respect for the great Fernview Rangers club. They played like a true team and they had a lot of great leaders … that’s why they have had so many players inducted into the CBHA Hall-of-Fame.  
 
6. What is the most memorable CBHA game you recall and why?
It was 1995 in Edmonton  … Montreal Black Knights vs. Burnaby Bulls. The Men’s Gold medal game went into overtime, and both teams had many chances to win. It was back and forth before Montreal scored the winner, as Quebec claimed their first ever National Championship title with a 2-1 win. It was a great finish to what was a very competitive tournament. 

7.  Ball Hockey is truly a family affair for you…   
Yes it has been just that. My brother John played a few years of ball hockey and I had a chance to be his team mate. I coached my wife Cynthia’s competitive Women’s team for 6 years, and even played with her on a co-ed winter league team for a season. My son has played ball hockey for 11 seasons, and I have had the pleasure of coaching him all those years. I have made many friends in this sport, and I am truly grateful to be involved in ball hockey. 

8. You were a key player in bringing the sport your and a and Canada forward on the International Arena.  What are your thoughts and recollections on that historical process from CBHA perspective?
Meeting the gentlemen from the Czech Republic and Slovakia was a memorable experience. They were just as passionate about ball hockey as we were, and it clicked right from the start . Tony Iannito of Quebec played a large role as well. I could not attend the first World Championships because my wife was having our child during the event. Tony went over to Europe and was a  great ambassador for Canada … he should be commended for his efforts. I was very proud when I got the call that the boys from Canada had won gold! 

9. What do you see as the future of our sport and the CBHA moving forward?
I see nothing but positive things for ball hockey … the newly elected CBHA Executive has a lot of passionate people on board. I was able to attend the recent CBHA General Meeting, and the positive attitude around the room showed unity amongst the Provinces.  Our National Championships should always be our top showcase, and we should concentrate on making Nationals the best they can be. On the floor, we have no problems. The talent level on the floor continues to rise at the Men’s-Women’s-Minor levels, and the World Championships continue to grow. Let’s all continue to spread the word that ball hockey is the greatest sport to play, and that all Canadians, no matter what their skill levels are, can enjoy our  great game!