Thousands of people took to the streets and parking lots near the Videotron Center very early this morning to watch Team Ukraine’s first game at the Tournoi international de hockey pee-wee de Québec.
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People had been waiting since 6:00 a.m. to get a place in the amphitheater which should be full for the start of the meeting of the Ukrainians against the small Boston Bruins.
Some did not want to miss their chance to buy one of the 2000 tickets kept for the day of the match. The ticket office was about to close its doors a few minutes from the most anticipated meeting in the history of the Tournament.
Paul Ferlatte and Odette Delisle de l’Islet drove more than an hour to encourage the little Ukrainians. The man who is a great hockey fan admits that it was the presence of the Ukraine team that convinced him to come and attend his first ever Tournoi pee-wee de Québec.
Louis Deschenes
Paul Ferlatte and Odette Delisle de l’Islet
“I’ve played hockey since I was young and I’m very touched to see that sport brings young people together and it’s nice to see people in the stands supporting young people,” said Mr. Ferlatte.
“It’s everyone who wins today regardless of the result of the game. I hope people will also cheer for the opposing team [les Bruins de Boston] adds Ms. Delisle.
Supporters from Ukraine struggled to express themselves with their neighbours. Anna and Rosa were already showing their colors a few hours before the meeting.
“It’s the first time I’ve seen a hockey game [sur place]. We’re excited and it’s heartwarming to see people. Already the atmosphere is extraordinary,” they said in rudimentary English.