Have you ever asked the question “what is a Pete”?

Unlike many sports teams, the Peterborough junior hockey franchise is not named after an animal, a weather system, or an historical figure. Instead, the oldest continuously operating franchise in the OHL, and many hockey teams and other sport organizations that represented the city long before the OHL, is named after something that can only truly be understood by those that have put on the legendary maroon and white Petes sweater as a player or a fan.

 

 

So, what is a “Pete”?

A Peterborough Pete is . . .

1. A player who is competitive, pro-active, and gritty – one who consistently delivers physically, mentally, and emotionally.
2. A player who displays a high level of skill and ability in various aspects of his play on a consistent basis and within the framework of a team’s needs.
3. A player who demonstrates speed and tempo through skating skills in the areas of checking pressure, transition, offensive attack, puck movement, and hockey sense.
4. A player who respects and understands the importance of team first and his individual role, is coachable and able to adjust showing he is adaptable, resilient, and resourceful.
5. A player who is physically, mentally, and emotionally fit – one who takes care of himself on and off the ice and would represent a good example to his teammates.

 

 

The Petes are not just the players on the ice, though. A team would not last for over six decades without the dedicated fans, volunteers, and others who are integral to making the team function. These individuals are just as much “Petes” as anyone else. In the stands and following the team away from the rink, a Peterborough Pete is . . .

1. An individual who is passionate about their hockey team and their city.
2. An individual who is committed to supporting the growth and development of young people through sport, education, and community involvement.
3. An individual who maintains a positive attitude about their city, but who recognizes that work is always needed to help make Peterborough the best place to live in the world.
4. An individual who, regardless of age, race, religion, sex, or status of any kind, is devoted to hockey in Peterborough.
5. An individual who bleeds maroon and white.

A “Pete” is not a thing. A “Pete” is a feeling, a characteristic, and a common bond that ties together the best hockey community in the world.