In a thrilling conclusion to the 2024 Central Canada Cup in Flin Flon, Manitoba, the St Paul Jr. B Canadiens emerged victorious, clinching the championship title after a hard-fought battle against the Saskatoon Royals on Sunday, April 21.
Representing the North Eastern Alberta Jr. B Hockey League (NEAJBHL), the Canadiens kicked off their campaign with a victory over Manitoba’s Peguis Juniors, defeating them 5-2 in the tournament’s opening round-robin match.
“As we headed into the tournament, we knew we had to give it our all,” remarked Dean Smyl, General Manager of the St. Paul Canadiens. “And I can’t be any prouder of these boys… we fought through some adversity all week, but the boys left everything on the ice.”
The Canadiens continued their winning streak as the tournament progressed, triumphing over the opponents. Notable victories include a 6-3 win against the Current River Storm and a dominant 7-0 shutout against the host team, PBCN Selects.
In their last two pivotal matches, the Canadiens competed against the Saskatoon Royals on Friday, April 19th, clinching the number one seed with a hard-fought 7-5 victory. The following day, Saturday, April 20th, they faced the PBCN Selects in the semi-finals, winning 4-1 and advancing to the finals.
“The emotions were very high, as you can imagine, and we saw it all the way until the end,” Smyl reflected. “And listen, we didn’t start the line brawl at the end, but we definitely finished it.”
Advancing to the championship game on Sunday, April 21st, the Canadiens faced off against the Saskatoon Royals again. In a riveting game, the Canadiens displayed their prowess and resolve. Despite a line brawl erupting in the final seconds of the championship game, they emerged victorious with a 3-1 win and were titled the 2024 Central Canada Cup Champions.
“The most memorable moment for me would definitely be the final game,” said Canadiens defenseman Damian Langevin-Whitford. “The adrenaline rush I got at the end watching my teammates in the line brawl, then seeing Webb come out of his net and fight the Royals goalie. It was electric and a moment I will never forget.”
Amidst the celebration, the Canadiens were honored at the Central Canada Cup Banquet, with several players receiving accolades for their outstanding performances. Quinn Szpak, William Chemago, and Mitch Webb were named First Team All-Stars, while Jacob Leroux and Kayden Morrison earned Second Team All-Star honors.
Looking ahead, the Canadiens announced a leadership transition for the 2024-2025 season, with Rylan Cardinal set to take on the role of Captain.
“Rylan has been a leader since we signed him,” Smyl remarked on Cardinal’s transition. “We know he is going to do a great job next season. He is a player who says it and shows it on the ice.”
As the Canadiens return home with the Central Canada Cup trophy, they carry the pride and gratitude of their fans, who have steadfastly supported them throughout their quest for glory. “It’s amazing to leave our home province and return as champions with a trophy. We all want to thank the fans who have supported our team on and off the ice since the beginning,” said Langevin-Whitford.
With their sights set on future triumphs, the St. Paul Jr. B Canadiens stand poised to continue their legacy of excellence on the ice.