The floor hockey program at Mayfield City Schools has established itself as a venerable 50-year-old tradition, a testament to the vision of its founder and organizer, Phil Weinburg.
Originally a fifth-grade teacher, Weinburg introduced the floor hockey program at a time when the game was still relatively obscure. Reflecting on its humble beginnings, he remarked, “It was a new game at the time. I had never heard of it.” Despite the initial uncertainty, the league has thrived and evolved significantly since its inception.
Of particular note is the fact that the league has maintained a co-ed structure from its inception. While the first season only saw one female player, girls now constitute an impressive 40% of the participants. According to Weinburg, the league has been a work in progress, with rules being developed and refined over time. Nevertheless, the game has endured and continues to prosper.
As the league commemorates its 50th anniversary, Sam Nass, an eighth-grader, expressed her enthusiasm for the sport. “I think what’s really fun about floor hockey is all the teamwork and you get to make new friends,” she shared. This sentiment is echoed by Nico Gentille, a former player turned coach, who has been involved with the program for nearly 16 years. “I love the program,” said Gentille. “It’s really fun. It’s good to hang out with the kids, get them started in something.”
Additionally, this season holds particular significance as the students are donning special 50-year-anniversary jerseys. Weinburg expressed his surprise at the enduring popularity of the program, stating, “We don’t do kindergarten yet. We start from the first through twelfth grade.”
The success and longevity of the floor hockey league have surpassed Weinburg’s expectations, with the program not only enduring but also growing in popularity over the years.
The Mayfield City Schools floor hockey program has become an integral facet of the school’s heritage, promoting teamwork, sportsmanship, and a sense of community amongst the students. As the league celebrates its 50th season, it is evident that this cherished tradition shows no signs of waning and will continue to enrich the lives of students for years to come.