On Friday February 9th, 2024 the Oakville
Rangers Hockey Club lost one of our own, Finlay van der Werken last played with
the Rangers in the 2020-2021 hockey season- yet his impact can still be felt
across the organization today with many former teammates, coaches and friends
in the 2007-born cohort still playing with the Rangers crest on their jersey
today.
Finlay was as perfect a teammate and opponent as you could imagine.
Kind, helpful, considerate, friendly and supportive, all the
characteristics you would hope to have in any player or teammate. When it
came time for hockey, though- watch out! Finlay played with an incredible blend
of skill, determination, and power. He would make the most unselfish of plays,
but when the moment called for it could lift the team on his shoulders and help
them fight to victory.
From Finlay's Coach:
Our House League team was nicknamed the "Ogres", and I had the immense privilege of coaching Finlay on three iterations of this team. Playing with the 2007 cohort, Finlay was the template for what it meant to be both an incredible competitor and teammate. In 2017-18 Finlay was "Mr. Everything" to the Ogres, serving as our team MVP and a shining example of succeeding both on and off the ice.
Finlay was beloved by teammates, coaches, and families alike. Once Finlay moved to Burlington following the 2020-21 hockey season, he played his hockey locally. Yet Finlay's legacy carries on for both his 2007 born teammates and the 2012 born teams I coach. When I assess the character of players that join our team, I use Finlay as the measuring stick and gold standard as to what I aspire all our players to become.
Finlay was always there to support others going through a hard time. It was just but one of his super powers. We find it only fitting to choose a charity whose mission it is for young leaders (like Finlay) to revolutionize mental health. Donate to Jack.org (akaraisin.com)
Far too many friends and family have suffered at the hands of cancer, we honour them in Finlay's name by offering the Canadian Cancer Society as a donation option.