This past weekend, the U11 BB Jr. Rangers headed to Niagara to compete in the U11A Doug Robinson All Star Challenge, and they delivered a performance that showcased not only their skill on the ice, but their character as a team.
The tournament opened with a busy Friday slate, where the Rangers went 1–1. The boys kicked things off with a strong, hard-fought win over the Applewood Coyotes, setting an early tone of confidence and determination. That momentum was tested later in the day with a tough loss against a very talented Southeast Surge squad, a game that pushed the Rangers to regroup and refocus.
Saturday proved to be a turning point. Facing the West Niagara Flying Aces in a must-win game, the Rangers battled through a physical, high-energy game and came away with a crucial victory. That win secured a second-place finish in their pool and punched their ticket to the semifinals.
Sunday morning brought one of the most exciting moments of the weekend. The Rangers took on the number one seed from the opposing pool, the Norfolk Knights in the semifinals. With the game heading into overtime, the boys dug deep, showed poise under pressure, and delivered an impressive OT win to advance to the championship game.
In the finals, the Rangers once again faced the Southeast Surge. What followed was a back-and-forth battle between two very skilled teams. The Rangers showed grit, determination, and heart from start to finish, but ultimately fell to the Surge by a 6–3 score. While the result didn’t go their way, the way the Rangers responded spoke volumes.
That wasn’t where the tournament ended for them. With heads held high, the boys proudly accepted their silver medals in the U11A division before skating to the rink door to form a stick tunnel for their opponents. They waited patiently as photos were taken and gear was collected, cheering every single Surge player off the ice—a powerful display of sportsmanship, respect, and class.
The weekend in Niagara was about far more than wins and losses. It was about growth, resilience, teamwork, and becoming better teammates and people.
The U11 BB Jr. Rangers represented themselves, their families, and their organization with pride.
Congratulations, Rangers.