Slough Jets fly past for one last legendary match at The Hangar

The Hangar was once again packed to the rafters as fans travelled from far and wide for Slough Jets’ final fly past on Saturday.

They came from just around the corner, and from around the world, to celebrate the club’s legacy, watch an enthralling match between legends spanning several generations, and raise money for Spice (Special People On Ice) and the Lymphoma Association.

Many of the legends on show may have long since retired from the game, but their competitive spirit still burned brightly as Gary Stefan’s side defeated Craig Moran’s team 12-11.

With less than a minute remaining all of the players rushed the ice and the traditional five versus five became 30 v 30 for the final seconds.

“On the scoreboard Team Stef were the winners by a single goal but in truth the Jets Legacy and family were the winners,” said organiser Mark Denholm.

Afterwards the celebratory atmosphere continued with a party at the Copthorne Hotel which concluded in the early hours.

Denholm reflected: “Seeing so many happy faces in the Hangar spanning the generations of the Jets was a great way for the day to start.

“The rink went above and beyond the call of duty in the build to and execution of the day so massive thanks have to go to Matt Schofield and his team.

“Players united from various places around the country and the world and put on a spectacular show. We had well supported auctions, raffles and duck throwing too before the party moved to the Copthorne Hotel.

“It was great to see both the Hangar and the evening function exceeding anything we’ve seen of recent in terms of support and attendance.”

He added that it was great to see such a large crowd celebrate the occasion.

“I’ve made many great friends through ice hockey, many of who were with me yesterday to celebrate and that was shared by the huge Hangar crowd who all got to celebrate among friends.

“Along the 28 years some of the Jets family have been taken from us but yesterday they were there in our hearts.

“It was a happy end to a sad situation, it showed what the Jets mean to so many people and on behalf of Gary, Tammy and Craig I thank everyone for their support.

“I hope we’re in a position to make decent donations to both Spice and the Lymphoma Association following a fantastic event.”