LABRADOR WEST, N.L. — This was one of the best junior national ball hockey championships ever for teams from Newfoundland and Labrador.
The U17 men’s team were strong throughout the week. In one game they tied Ontario 2-2, and went on to beat Quebec 5-0 and Alberta 7-0.
On July 28 they beat Ontario in shootouts to advance to the final, where they won gold over British Columbia. This is the first time this province has won gold in Tier 1 play.
Five of the gold medal teams are from Labrador West. They are Ryan Barnett, Kyle Andrews, Nick Sexton, Nathan Grouchy and Mark Hillier.
“It was a great week for the N.L. teams, and the Labrador players were a big part of this provinces medal winnings,” Brian Barnett, who attended the games in Fredericton, told The Aurora.
Barnett is a ball hockey coach in Labrador West.
Not to be outdone, the U19 girl’s team picked up the silver for N.L. A large part of that team is from Labrador West. They include Mackenzie Curran, Katie Peddle, Madison Hancock, Hailey Hibbs, Mallory Martin, Kingsley Cormier, Josie Vallis, Jenny Soper Bessey, Julia Thomas and Cassidy Hedd. Their coach Chloe Tinkler is also from Labrador West.
Finishing the medal count was the U15 team, who picked up the bronze medal in their division.
Two of that team, Reggie Pike and Shane Delaney are from Labrador West.
Several texts to The Aurora from some of the Labrador West players and some parents said it was an excellent tournament, and a great accomplishment for all the young ball hockey players.
