The girls went undefeated in round-robin play, not allowing a single goal in their three games. This remarkable feat was the result of hard work, discipline, and a strong commitment to playing as a cohesive team.
Every player played not just for themselves, but for each other, making the team’s success truly a collective effort. In the semifinals, we faced Kingston, who were also undefeated going into the match.
Kingston had scored 10 goals and allowed only 2 in their round-robin games, so we knew we were up against a tough opponent. But once again, our girls displayed incredible teamwork, playing a complete game. With just 15 seconds left in the third period, we scored the game-winning goal, clinching a 1-0 victory in what was truly a nail-biting match.
The finals saw us take on Clarington. After scoring first and going up 1-0, we felt confident in our chances for the championship. But Clarington responded with a goal about five minutes later to tie it up — our first goal conceded all tournament. The game became an intense back-and-forth, with both teams creating chances, and after regulation, the score remained deadlocked.
We moved to 4-on-4 overtime, but no one could break the tie. Then, in the 3-on-3 overtime, the game took an unexpected turn. A controversial penalty was called against us, and with the resulting 4-on-3 power play, Clarington scored, clinching the championship.
Though our hearts sank in the final moments, we couldn’t be prouder of the girls and their performance throughout the tournament. Every player, and every coach, gave it their all, and there were no regrets. The girls put everything they had on the ice, and regardless of the outcome, it was a tournament to remember.