For the Newmarket Redmen Tyke Select team, it was a storybook finish at the Bradford Blue & Gold Tournament held from Feb 2-4, 2018.
After an unfortunate opening game loss, the team quickly rallied to defeat the Humber Valley Sharks, and then needed to beat a very tough Stouffville Clippers squad who had defeated us 3-0 earlier in the season. Propelled by the hot hand of tournament MVP Nathan Luimes', who scored a hat trick, and a game saver stop by goalie Mason Setterfield, the team won a hard-fought 3-2 battle. But little did we know the drama had just begun....
Meeting our arch-rival Stouffville once again in the Finals, the Clippers came out determined, and took a 2-0 lead into the 2nd period. The Redmen never gave up though, and with their backs against the wall, the boys played their hearts out. Nathan continued his scoring streak to put us within a goal, and after a great save by Christian Marleau, the team continued to press. With about 30 seconds left, and the goalie pulled for an extra skater, Jesse Flatt tied the game to send it to overtime.
Playing 4 on 4, the Redmen pressed onward, and nearing the 3 minute mark of overtime, a desperate pass by Elliot Chambers found Hantao Ozols alone in the slot, and he snapped it top shelf to win it, and sent the crowd into a frenzy.
What an electrifying game, and remarkable comeback victory for the Tyke Select team!
GRIT and DETERMINATION paid off with a Championship victory!
We are so proud of each and every one of our players! Go Team Go!
Written by Konrad Ozols, Trainer & Katie Evestaff, Manager