U18 Eston Ramblers take provincials

By Jordan Parker

The U18 Eston Ramblers have won the C Division provincial championship.

In the deciding game last week, the downed the Kipling U18 Royals 6-1 in Saturday night action. Previously, the Ramblers beat Kipling 5-4 during the first game of the series.

“Winning provincials was so special. That doesn’t come around every year. For some of our guys, it’s the first time they’ve ever won anything,” said Coach Darcy Morrice.

“The team played a perfect game. We skated hard, cycled down low and passed the puck. When they play like that, it’s hard to beat them.”

He said the Kipling team had a lot of upside, and they were a great opponent.

“Their goaltender was pretty good, and that had three lines that just don’t quit. If we didn’t match their effort, it could have been a different series,” he said. “But we stepped up and the whole team played really well.”

Morrice said the team’s play changed throughout the year, and got better as things went along.

“We came away from that thought we needed to play as individuals. They started playing as a whole team,” he said.

“The way they clicked was impressive to watch. Also, Colby Watson might be the best Midget goalie I’ve seen play in some time.”

He said the team has been on “cloud nine” since their provincial win, despite being knocked out of the league playoffs by Dinsmore the other night.

“We would have liked a different result there, but we have had so much success,” he said. “Winning provincials was so special. The parents should be proud, and I know I am.”

He also expressed his thanks for the Town of Eston, where there’s been so much support.

“It’s a hockey-rich community. This town supports everyone on the team like they all have a kid playing,” he said.

“It’s amazing how everyone rallies around. The rink was full for home games the entire year. I feel lucky we get to play in this community.”

U18 ESTON RAMBLERS

Coach: Darcy Morrice

Asst Coach: Kelly Smith

Trainer: Jason Beckstrand

Eston

• Colton Simpson

• Colby Mathers - A

• Nigel Byrnes

• Quintin King

• Carver Beckstrand - A

• Cort Tunall

• Cooper Hallborg

Elrose

• Colby Watson

Plenty

• Hayden Hilderman

• Nik McLeod

• Foster Stephens

• Derek Smith - A

• Boston Dipple

• Landon McDonald

Fox Valley

• Carter Wagner

• Owen Wagner - C

• Noah Bosch

• Ryan Hudec

• Jake Hudec

Leader

• Evan Watts

Eatonia

• Kearin Wagner