Indian Time - A Voice from the Eastern Door

The Wayne Castor Award is presented each year at the last Salmon River Central School's hockey game. Former recipients of this award all have represented and reflected the true spirit and devotion as a SRCS ultimate hockey fan, and that of Wayne Castor himself. Castor, who passed much too early in life but left a legacy not only for his wife, Elaine and his sons, Peter and Kevin, but for anyone who knew and remembers Wayne. After living a life consumed by alcohol, he found love, and an odd mix of inner calm and outwardly passion for life that permeated everything he did onward. This calm and passion lead Castor to be an amazing husband, father, brother in law, friend, co-worker and mentor. So much so, that after his passing, those who knew him often wondered, "What are we going to do now, who are we going to talk to, share unbelievable yet candid stories with?" In the end it was, "Who are we going to counsel with?"

All translated, Castor made such an impact as a parent, fan, and supporter of the SRCS hockey team, this award/trophy is named after him.

People from all walks of life have been presented with the Wayne Castor award, from young dedicated students, to financially patronizing fans, to those who have spent their lives helping children skate. It may sound simple and not important, but encouraging a life long love of skating can only lead to better things. Mr. John Cantwell III embodies all of those qualities and characteristics, he is committed, dedicated, and passionate about what he does. He made sure that every child, student, and player could skate as best they could - no matter what kind of skate they brought to him, Cantwell would sharpen their skates as if they were the top of the line. If they walked in with an old worn out pair of skates, they walked out with skates sharpened well enough for professional hockey players.

There to be with their father, John Cantwell III, Cynthia Cantwell said, "My father was so honored and emotional. He has done this for 30 years, not for the money, but for the kids. We always knew where he was, in the cellar sharpening skates. He was meticulous about every skate, no matter how bad the condition it was in. He was determined to have these children be able to skate on what they had. I'm not sure anybody could do the job he could do for 30 years on the old machine he has worked with. He has a big heart. Thank you from all the family for such an honor."

Sincerely, Thank you, Niawen:kowa, from the Castor Family, the SRCS hockey family and the community of Akwesasne.