CARHA Hockey recently had an opportunity to speak with Ray Vallee, the founder of The Classics, a recreational hockey team out of Alberta that has had an incredible journey over the past 50 years. Ray shared some fascinating insights into the history of the team, its evolution, and what the future holds for this beloved group of players. As The Classics celebrate its 50th anniversary this year, we’re thrilled to share Ray’s story and the team’s remarkable milestones.
CH: How did The Classics get its start, and what inspired you to create the team?
RV: In 1974, I was 26 years old and could barely skate, but I had a passion for playing hockey. At that time, there weren’t many options for someone like me to get involved, so I decided to start my own team. Initially, we were called the Eagles, and we played home and away against pickup teams in the area.
CH: Where did The Classics first play their games, and how did the team’s ice time locations change over the years?
RV: We started playing out of Parkland Arena in Winterburn, then moved to Spruce Grove, where we played at 11:45pm on Sunday evenings. As we sought better ice time, we eventually moved to Edmonton and played out of West Edmonton Mall. In the years that followed, we settled at K.C. Arena, where we now enjoy great ice time on Monday evenings at 8:45pm.
CH: How have the costs of ice time evolved over the years for The Classics?
RV: When we first started, ice time at Parkland Arena was just $25 per hour. Fast forward to today, and we now pay $358 per hour for ice time at K.C. Arena. It’s incredible to see how much the costs have risen over the years, but it’s all part of keeping the game going!
CH: At what point did you decide to change the team’s name to The Classics, and why?
RV: In 1999, we were struggling to get players for our away games, so we decided to just play amongst ourselves on Monday evenings. It was during this time that we also changed our team name to The Classics, which better reflected the team’s evolving nature and focus on fun, recreational hockey.
CH: The Classics have expanded their playing schedule over the years. Can you tell us more about that?
RV: In 2005, we started playing summer hockey on Monday evenings, which meant we played year-round. We’re also hoping to add Thursday evening games in the summer starting in 2025, something we did before Covid in 2019. It’s been a great way to stay active and keep the camaraderie going even in the off-season.
CH: You’ve been with the team since the very beginning. Are there any original players still with The Classics today?
RV: I am the only original player left, but I’m still in contact with some of the players who have moved on over the years. Sadly, seven of our original Eagles members have passed away. It’s been a long journey, but I’m grateful to still be part of the team and continue playing the game I love.
CH: What has starting The Classics meant to you personally, and how has the team impacted your life?
RV: Starting the team was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s allowed me to stay in good shape and maintain my health, and it’s given me the opportunity to build many long-lasting relationships. I’m incredibly grateful to all the team members who’ve come and gone over the years and for allowing me to keep playing hockey. It’s been an unforgettable experience.
CH: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of The Classics?
RV: My hope is that the team continues to grow and maintain the spirit of fun and camaraderie that has always defined us. We’re looking forward to adding more games, especially in the summer, and keeping the tradition of playing the game we all love alive for years to come.
CH: Aside from playing with The Classics, are you playing with any other groups?
RV: I am happily also playing with the Edmonton Vintage Hockey Group who are a very well-established 55+ league in Alberta as well as across Canada. They have been around since 1989, and I play in their Level 2B Division. During the winter months I spend much of my time in Las Vegas and for the past 11 years I have been playing 3 times a week with a great group of guys called the ElderSkatesmen.