The Strathroy Jr. Rockets PeeWee AE team, sponsored by DJM Controls Inc., travelled to the International Silver Stick Tournament in Pelham, Ontario over the weekend and came away with the Championship Trophy and Banner.
This was a huge accomplishment as the team faced off against other regional qualifying championship teams from both Canada and throughout the United States.
The Jr. Rockets got off to a slow start in the round robin finishing with 1 win, and 2 losses. After that they found their groove and played undefeated hockey on their way to the championship title.
In the quarter finals, the team played a hard fought game against the Wonderland Wizards from Bridgeport, Connecticut and emerged with a 3-0 victory.
In the semi-final game the team faced the Bisons from Boulder Colorado. A balanced offensive attack combined with a relentless back check and a strong defensive zone effort resulted in a 5-1 victory for the Strathroy team.
In the finals, the team was matched up against a very strong and fast New Mexico Warriors team. Jackson Dawson opened thescoring for the Jr. Rockets five minutes in to the 1st period. Dante Brock tallied another one for the Jr. Rockets late in the 2nd period. Although the Jr. Rockets were outshot for most of the second and third periods, they dug deep and gave everything they had to secure a well deserved 3-0 victory with Evan Townsend scoring an empty net goal to cement the victory. Special recognition to goalie Lucas Goulart who recorded 3 shutouts in the tournament, including the Championship game.
Congratulations to all of the players and the coaching staff of the Strathroy Jr. Rockets Peewee AE team. You earned this with your hard work and determination. You will forever be International Silver Stick Champions!