What started as a normal trip to a weekend hockey tournament turned into a scary situation for the U-17 AAA Southwest Cougars, who found themselves stuck for hours on the highway after a multi-vehicle crash near Oakville.
Shianne Mc Kay, a mother traveling with the team to Winnipeg, shared that they got caught behind the accident and were unable to move as conditions worsened.
“We’re in Oakville because we are on our way to a hockey tournament this weekend in Winnipeg,” Mc Kay said. “We got caught behind the accident that happened with the multiple vehicle collision, and we’re just happy that Oakville opened up their doors and their community hall.”
According to Mc Kay, some of the team members were stuck on the highway for about two and a half hours, including her and her son. The visibility was really poor, making things even more stressful.
“I was driving very, very slow prior to the accident,” she said. “You could not see anything in front of you. It’s like everything just disappeared.”
Travellers stranded for the night at the Oakville Community Centre. (Brittany Boschman/PNN)
Mc Kay mentioned she was able to stay in touch with a teammate driving behind her, while another teammate was nearer to where the crash occurred.
“Another mom, Nikki, was right behind me, so we got to keep each other company,” she said. “Our other teammate was a little bit further ahead and she was kind of involved a little bit in the accident. She got nicked.”
That mom wasn’t seriously hurt and is expected to be okay, Mc Kay confirmed.
The most challenging part for Mc Kay was feeling scared and uncertain about being stranded far from home with limited information.
“It was a very scary feeling,” she said. “There was high anxiety at times… You just had to go on blind faith.”
The situation improved when the Oakville community stepped up by opening their local community centre to offer food, shelter, and a safe place for those affected.
“We’re well entertained, well fed, and we’re going to be okay,” Mc Kay said, showing appreciation for all the support.
This experience reminded Mc Kay about slowing down and focusing on safety.
“There’s nothing in this world that’s that important for your life,” she said.
As cleanup efforts continue, the Cougars hope they can resume their journey once conditions improve and head back home to Souris with lasting memories of community kindness during this tough time.
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