U18AAA Sutter Fund Chiefs vying for Esso Cup berth in best-of-three on home ice

The Chiefs recently capped off a fantastic season, winning the provincial title over the Calgary Fire, who had finished atop the AFHL in the regular season with 74 points.

The Chiefs, at 63 points, finished third with a record of 21-7-2-0.

The Rush, meantime, finished atop the BCEHL, winning 30 games and losing just twice, with a goal differential of +123, and 5.34 goals per game.

The Chiefs had 3.00 goals per game in the regular season.

“Our girls fought hard to win provincials,” says Head Coach Brett Wold, adding that the 4-3 shootout win to be named Alberta’s top-team was well-earned.

“We have a team that can just battle. For fans to come out this weekend would be awesome. In terms of female hockey in the province, it’s some of the best that local fans could get to watch. Come fill the rink and give us that hometown advantage.”

Home-ice for the Pacific Regionals simply alternates each season, instead of being based on records or other statistics.

Wold shares that he’ll be counting on all to contribute.

“At provincials, our big players led by example. Rylee Mcleod had a big game with a goal and two assists, plus the shootout winner in the final. Our rookie goaltender Taya Christie stood on her head, and she’s only 15. Jaecia Joyce and Ryann Holbein on defence both played over 40 minutes. Everybody played so well,” says Wold.

“This means everything to these players. To be recognized as a top team in the country, and to have the chance to fully compete for that national championship, it’s a dream these girls have had growing up. It would mean the world.”

Admission to games is by donation, which go back to the team’s operations, including travel costs.

Whichever team wins the best-of-three series in Red Deer this weekend will head to the Esso Cup, to be held April 23-29 in Prince Albert, SK.

by Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

U18AAA Sutter Fund Chiefs vying for Esso Cup berth in best-of-three on home ice

What's Trending