The Hamilton Tiger-Cats could have a greater presence in Ancaster this year, thanks to a renewed partnership with the Ancaster Village Core Advisory Committee.

The committee will oversee the installation of overhead Tiger-Cat banners in Ancaster's village core area to promote the local Canadian Football League team heading into the 2008 season.

The team has also been approached by the Ancaster Heritage Days committee to enter this year's Heritage Days parade on Saturday, June 14. The committee hopes to invite team mascots, cheerleaders and players. The team's participation has yet to be confirmed.

Up to 15,000 spectators are expected to line the parade route for the 30th anniversary Heritage Days parade.

In exchange for the partnership, the AVCAC will receive 200 tickets for 2008 Tiger-Cat games. Committee chair Walter Buckho said the tickets could be distributed to various community groups, or used as prizes for fundraisers for a variety of worthy causes.

Mr. Buchko said he's looking forward to the renewed partnership with the Tiger-Cats.

"We just hope this year is better than last year," Mr. Buchko said, alluding to the team's dismal 3-15 record during the 2007 season.

Last year, tickets were awarded as door prizes during the popular Music at Fieldcote summer festival.

Banners to be installed this spring in village core

Royals hockey set for SOSSA

The Ancaster Royals boys hockey team was scheduled to compete at the Southern Ontario Secondary Schools Association championships in Welland this week.

Competition took place following the Ancaster News press deadline. In opening round play, the Royals were slated to compete against Denis Morris High School of St. Catharines. Denis Morris, an experienced SOSSA competitor, also qualified for the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations championships last season.

The Royals qualified for their first appearance at the SOSSA AAA/AAAA championships since 1994 after beating the Waterdown Warriors 6-2 in the March 5 Hamilton city final.