Tyke Novice Black, 2016-2017, MD (Kitchener Minor Hockey)

Sadly, this past weekend marked the end of another year of hockey for our 2009’s.   This year’s Novice Blacks went out in style against some of the best MD talent in Ontario.  The boys held leads in each game during the tournament and ended up first in pool play before losing in the finals to tough Richmond Hill Stars team.  Lasting memories were created on and off the ice – walking taco and a side of Jell-o anyone?

On March 18th and 19th, the Kitchener Rangers Novice Black and the Guelph Junior Gryphons Tyke 'A" hockey teams met for a home-and-home weekend at the Kitchener Auditorium and Sleeman Centre. 

What a weekend!   5 games over 3 days and a fantastic 4-1-0 record against 32 of the best Tyke hockey teams in Ontario.  Our 2009's displayed sportsmanship, humility, conviction, and even shed a few semi-final tears on their way to a 3rd place finish.

Our Novice Black Rangers defeated all comers this past weekend in the Annual Bob Stark Classic in London, Ontario.  A dominating performance, Kitchener’s finest 2009’s outscored opponents 40-5 over a four game stretch.  The onslaught was the result of organized play, a commitment to playing at ends of the ice, and an extremely hard-working team effort.

Our Blacks got the tournament season started off with a bang with their 4-3 OT championship win against a skilled and seasoned North York Duffield Devils squad.  Looking to avenge an earlier 2-1 loss vs. the Devils and down 3-1 late in the third, the Rangers whipped the crowd into a frenzy with two beauties to get to the extra frame.  Early in OT, swarming back-pressure led to a Duffield turn-over, a quick transition and hard wrister which squeaked by a stunned Duffield goaltender.  Bedlam ensued on the ice and in the stands.