Message From the Family:
Thomas Roderick Marshall (Tuma) was born to Albert and Murdena Marshall on September 17 1963. From the time he was able to walk he wanted to skate. He was mesmerized by the speed and the skills involved in playing hockey.
In the fall of 1969 he was introduced to playing hockey and belonging to a team. He worked hard and was very succesful. His love of the game placed him in a category
with far older players. He played for the County of Cape Breton Minor Hockey Association for almost 9 years.
Tuma wasn’t meant to have a career in hockey.
His role was recognized but then hockey for kids was barely heard of. On
January 14, 1978
he succumbed to cancer. But after reviewing his life many times over, we realized
that there is a difference between a career in hockey and love of the game. He chose the latter or Niskam chose.
In 1994, Patrick Marshall brought Tuma’s dream to life.
He organized a tournament that showed the importance of having children from different communities playing each other.
Teaching them the game and having feelings for it produces players who are dedicated and helps them build their young lives,
and being proud Mi’kmaq. To Patrick Marshall and all of his volunteers and workers over the years we are eternally grateful.
We would also like to acknowledge the family of Sheldon Googoo who we lost tragically last year during the tournament. We would also like to thank
all the players and teams who have participated over the years.
Welaliek Msit Ma’slaq
