Longtime Langton volunteer Roger Demeester has finished second in the national TIMBER MART Local Leader contest, earning $8,000 for the Langton & Area Minor Hockey Association after a strong show of community support.
The contest wrapped up with Isabelle Boucher of Quebec winning the national title and the $10,000 grand prize. Final voting saw Boucher receive 8,909 votes, while Demeester finished with 7,922 votes.
Although Demeester did not win the top prize, reaching the final four means Langton Minor Hockey will receive an $8,000 donation. Long's Timber Mart says an official cheque presentation will take place at the store once the funds are received.
In a statement, Long's Timber Mart thanked everyone who voted and supported the campaign, saying the community should be proud of how it came together to recognize Demeester's decades of volunteer service.
Demeester, 87, has dedicated 55 years to Langton Minor Hockey. He helped found the association in 1971 and has served as president, vice-president, coach, referee-in-chief, announcer and timekeeper while continuing to volunteer today.
The association says the money will help reduce registration costs, making hockey more affordable for local families and encouraging more children to take part in the sport.
Written by Jeremy Hall
