Warmer temperatures and sunny days means time at the rink is now over for the Ecofish Whalers women's hockey team.
The season ended this past weekend in Whistler for the annual Spring Fling Hockey Tournament. Twenty-two players jumped aboard the ferry and made up two teams playing in the same division.
The hot sun, some roof repairs and very poor ice conditions affected the tournament schedule and made for some frustration for both players and organizers.
Team White was first on the ice on Friday with an astounding 6-0 win over the Vancouver Blue Ice. The game was followed by an entertaining last minute 2-1 win from Team Black against the Abbotsford Warriors.
Next morning Team White met the Warriors but a tough game resulted in a loss of 6-2. Due to the melting ice, games were pushed back and some serious team bonding happened at the hotel pool.
Later that evening Team Black battled The Crush but couldn't capitalize and was only able to beat the Crush's goalie once resulting in tie of 1-1. Shortly after that Team White also went up against The Crush and yet another entertaining game of end-to-end action and a beautiful game winner late in the last period. Team White beat The Crush 4-3.
Due to all the problems with the ice surface, a few of the games were cancelled but Team Black's final round robin game pitted them against the Warriors again in a winner take all battle. Team Black spent more time in the oppositions end this time around and finally were able to put the puck in the net just over half way through the game. They held that lead for the rest of the game to come out on top with a win 1-0, becoming tournament champs.
The Whalers players thank their sponsors in Ecofish Research Ltd. and Brian McLean Chevrolet Buick GMC for their constant support. Hats off to team organizers whose dedication and hard work does not go unnoticed and is greatly appreciated by all team members.
Have a great and safe summer, keep an eye on the blog https://courtenaywhalers.wordpress.com for information coming for the 2016-2017 hockey season. The Whalers are always looking for new players, beginners or experienced.