Bantam A Stars Victorious in Colorado

The Mission Bantam A Stars hockey team returned from Colorado February 21, 2006 with the first place trophy from the 29^th annual Presidents Day Hockey Tournament in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

After months of fundraising with the support of the Mission residents and local businesses the Bantam A Stars set out on a memorable journey to Colorado. Leaving by bus to Seattle from the Leisure Centre at 3:00AM then by plane to Denver and another bus ride to Colorado Springs they arrived at their hotel by 2:00PM. Fortunately no games were scheduled and they could get used to the 6000ft elevation. They attended a lively opening ceremony at the 5000 seat World Arena where the 1700 participants were paraded onto the ice with fireworks and a display of good will and sportsmanship as the teams threw souvenirs into the stands and marched proudly onto the ice. Mission tossed Canada ball caps.

The first game of the round robin Mission played a team from Fort Lauderdale, Florida final score 4 -2. The same day they played against the Colorado Jr. Tigers, final score 3-0 in favor of Mission. The next day Mission had their hands full against the San Jose Junior Sharks. Mission scored a buzzer beater to defeat them 5-4.

The last game of the round robin was against a team from Virginia with the winner advancing to the final. Mission played a sound defensive game coming out with a 2-1 victory.

The final had them facing the San Jose Jr. Sharks. With both goalies splitting the chores they came up with another defensive gem, defeating the Sharks 2-0.

During the trip the team visited the U.S.A. Olympic Centre. This proved to be an interesting and inspirational tour.

All of the boys displayed sportsmanship and camaraderie. They were true ambassadors. They took part in trading pins with the other teams whom were impressed with the enthusiasm from the players and parents.

Members of the Stars are Curtis Adams, Dyson Barnes, Mitchell Bessette, Cole Bullock, Trevor Cameron, Riley Cook, Jared Crockett, Donny Danroth, Spencer Doduk, Justin Glashauser, Joe Kellington, Kyle Naylor, Rhyon Olson, Clinton Renaud, Carson Thornton, Brett Turner, and Greg Vinnish. Their coach is Kosie Galos assisted by Ryan Chornick, Dale Vinnish, and Troy Walsh. Their manager is Renée Jonker.