The Novice Black team arrived in Bothwell Saturday morning pumped up and ready to play. It started straight away as the team and their parents hit the change rooms. There were good tunes and some good dance moves - and not just from the kids ...
The first game against Blenheim was a good one and lots of goals coming in the first period, the second and third was just as entertaining but Blenheim was no match for the Cougars strong defense and awesome goaltending from Ava. Novice Black kept the Blenheim goalie busy and the team was rewarded with a 5 – 3 victory much to the delight of the family and friends who had travelled to the game. With the first game over, it was time to chill before the skills competition …
The Skills competition saw James H and Will S shoot it out with some of the best, while Luke D, Liam G, Jill I and Ashton B took on the obstacle course relay. Ava P picked up a trophy for the best goaltending in the skills competition …way to go Ava!
The second game was against the Ridgetown team. As in previous games, the Novice Black played an awesome defensive and offensive game. The game started fast and ended fast with every player getting at least one goal. The teamwork between the players is amazing and this was evident in the final score of 17-1! This win meant that the Novice Black team was heading to the “A” Championship game on Sunday and would be playing the Sarnia Sabres.
It was an incredible team effort in every game that contributed to this success. Will S was amazing on defence while his brother Sam, played an awesome offensive game. Ava P was awesome in goal. Jill I played strong and that was reflected in her multiple goals. Taylor J came out fighting and played strong. Congrats to Ashton B who scored his first goal and then added another. Braeden J was strong on both forward and Defence. Owen B was hungry for goals and got them in each game. Luke D brought his usual brilliance to the tournament. James H skated hard and fast throughout the whole tournament. Liam G played strong and fought hard in all 3 games. Liam P played a strong solid game.
The “A” Championship game was incredible! The team was pumped up ready to get the trophy and their family and friends were excitedly watching and cheering from the stands. Novice Black started strong and never looked back. Goals from Liam G, Owen B, Luke D and Braeden J ensured Novice Black got the 5-1 victory and trophy that they deserved!
It was time for the team to line up on the ice and receive their hardware. The presenters were Ron Horvat and his Mom, Joan Horvat. Our very own Ava Persin, was also presented with a special award. She was the winner of the John Horvat Memorial Optimist Tournament - All Around Best Player Award. This award is given to the player who demonstrates Sportsmanship, Dedication and Ability. Ava, the team is very proud of you!
After the excitement of winning the team headed back to the change rooms for more pictures with the trophy, music and timbits that were provided for all by the Ireland and Jones families……thanks!
Throughout this whole tournament the team played a fantastic game of hockey. The whole team gave 100% and this showed in the amazing goals and passing that took place in each game.
Congrats Novice Black you truly deserve your title of John Horvat Tournament Champions!
Please check out the Photo Gallery on the website for pictures of the weekend.
Reporter – The Georgeson Family :-)