This past weekend was a showcase of skill and spirit for the Kitimat Winterhawks, as teams from different age groups demonstrated their prowess in various hockey tournaments. From the U15 House team’s resilience and strategic plays to the U13’s impressive victories at the Upper Skeena Rec Center, and from the U11 Tan team’s dramatic comebacks and near misses for gold to the U9’s undefeated triumph in Smithers, the Winterhawks have left a mark on the rinks, thrilling fans and making their coaches proud.
U15 House Winterhawks Tournament
The U15 House Winterhawks hosted a home tournament, opening with a challenging 13-2 loss against Prince Rupert. Despite the defeat, Jacob Santano shone with two spectacular goals. The team bounced back with a 4-2 victory over Burns Lake 2, featuring outstanding plays from Brad Franklin and Braxton Hamilton. Their third game, a narrow 5-3 loss to Burns Lake 2, was marked by commendable efforts from Franklin and Santano. The team displayed great spirit and teamwork throughout the weekend.
Goal Scorers: Jacob Santano (3), Brad Franklin (2), Braxton Hamilton (2), Noah Goffinet-Forward, Zak Baldridge, Jude Mansbridge.
U13 House Winterhawks Victories
The U13 House Winterhawks traveled up the highway to Hazelton, clinching a 9-4 win in their first game against the Hazelton Capitals. Luca Colombo and Dominic Oliveira led the charge with hat tricks, while Storm Vedan also contributed significantly. Their second game saw another dominant 9-2 victory, with Colombo and Vedan again scoring hat tricks. Oliveira and Felix Regimbald also made crucial contributions, ensuring a victorious weekend for the team.
Goal Scorers: Jacob Santano (3), Brad Franklin (2), Braxton Hamilton (2), Noah Goffinet-Forward, Zak Baldridge, Jude Mansbridge.
U11 Tan Winterhawks Tournament
The U11 Tan Winterhawks participated in a tournament in Houston, starting with a dramatic 4-4 tie against the Houston Flyers 2. Their resilience was on full display as they overcame a 3-0 deficit. The momentum continued with a 16-4 win against Houston Flyers 1, featuring a remarkable seven-goal performance from Holden Guerreiro. The team also secured a 16-0 win over Hazelton Capitals and a 9-5 victory over Smithers. Despite a 9-4 loss in the gold medal game against Terrace Blue, the Winterhawks proudly took home silver.
Goal Scorers: Holden Guerreiro (12), Jacob Regimbald (5), Benjamin Tormene (4), Warren Bogaert (4), Keaton O’Neill (3), London Hanson (3), Zander Brady (3), Kasen Hovland.
U9 Kitimat Winterhawks Undefeated
The U9 Kitimat Winterhawks displayed exceptional teamwork and skill in Smithers, achieving an impressive undefeated record of 10-0. Coached by Ian Coleman, Brandon Guerreiro, Mike Tormene, and Ryan Stepp, the young team exhibited remarkable talent and sportsmanship. Their outstanding performance is a testament to the dedication of the players, coaches and supportive families.
- Information provided by the Kitimat Minor Hockey Association