The High Country Rockies Under 11 Tier 3 team wrapped up their season in thrilling fashion, clinching the league championship on March 15 at the Oilfields Regional Arena in Diamond Valley.
The Rockies, made up of 9- and 10-year- olds from Diamond Valley, Priddis, and surrounding areas, began their season in early September. Over the months, they steadily improved, hitting their stride just in time for the playoffs. Entering February, the team was in third place in the league, but with a strong team effort, they were determined to make a championship run.
The road to the title was no easy feat. The Rockies’ regular-season scoring leader, Felix Ference, contributed 33 goals in 16 games, but the team knew it would take more than individual effort to succeed. The league was highly competitive, with every team capable of an upset on any given day.
In the first round of playoffs, the Rockies defeated Vulcan. They continued their momentum in the second round, edging out the second-place Okotoks Oilers by a single goal in a hard-fought series where Ivan Mitchell scored the series clinching goal.
The championship series was a best-of- three format, with the Rockies facing Cardston, who had just eliminated the top-seeded Claresholm team. In the first two games of the series, the Rockies’ had goals from six different players including Asher Flynn, Cole Boisjoli, and Connor Hindbo, showcasing the depth of the team’s offensive power. The series was tied 1-1 after two games, setting up a winner- takes-all showdown on March 15.
In the final game, the Rockies showed grit and determination, shutting down Cardston’s potent offense. Key defensive plays by Paislee Foley, Logan Francis, and Oakley McCowan were instrumental in securing the victory. Goaltender Edin Trejic, who had been stellar throughout the season, saved his best for last, delivering an outstanding performance when it mattered most. Both Edin Trejic and Kevin Labarge were recognized for their efforts, earning the Player of the Game and Heart and Hustle awards.
Throughout the seven playoff games, the Rockies posted a 5-1-1 record. They were led offensively by Austin Duckering, who recorded 21 points, and Augustino Dumelie, who added 18 points.
This victory marks a memorable achievement for the local team, and their championship banner will soon hang in the rafters of Oilfields Regional Arena, a lasting reminder of their hard work and dedication.
