RED DEER – Team Alberta players piled onto their goalie after winning the Western Hockey League (WHL) Cup.
They won in an 8-1 victory against Manitoba in the championship final.
The WHL Cup is an under-16 hockey tournament held annually across Western Canada, showcasing all-star players from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba who are prospects for WHL teams.
This tournament, held in Red Deer from Oct. 23 to Oct. 27, began in 2009 in Blackfalds, Alta. Many notable NHL players played in this tournament over the years including Morgan Rielly, Brayden Point and Mathew Barzal.
Winning the trophy is an achievement, but the main goal is for players to prove they’re ready to make the jump to the major junior ranks — and beyond.
“This is the entryway into the Hockey Canada system,” Team Alberta goalie coach Theodore Zubot said during the tournament. “Buy into your role.”
It is important for these young athletes to realize they are no longer going to be the stars on their teams and will now be with athletes at the same level or higher.
“We have 20 players that are all really good on their club teams,” said Zubot. “But I think when you come here on a best-on-best tournament, your role might be a little bit different.”
Zubot is also the goalie coach for the Calgary Hitmen, allowing him to see the lineup of players throughout the entire season.
“It’s a big opportunity playing here — showcase our talents,” said Team Alberta forward Ossie McIntyre, a Spokane Chiefs prospect.
Confidence is an important factor for players during this tournament. It will help them excel on ice and put their best foot forward.
“You can’t tell him he’s not good,” said Ossie’s mom Deanne. “Could come across cocky sometimes — his confidence is amazing.”
The beginning of the tournament started out rocky for Team Alberta, with two losses and one win. The Alberta boys roared back and beat Saskatchewan 9-5 on Oct. 26 to advance to the finals.
“We knew we had them,” said Team Alberta’s Matthew Hilderman. We just had to keep pushing them on their heels and keep going.”
The excitement from Saskatchewan game carried into their outstanding performance in the final.
“The team has huge momentum right now,” said Hilderman.
The big win will help propel the athlete’s careers and show their skills to potential recruits.
Scouts at this tournament range from junior to pro leagues. Playing well and showing off your skills may lead to huge opportunities, including playing for Team Canada, or even in the NHL.
“Next step would be U17, U18, then the World Juniors,” said Zubot. “It’s kind of the start for them.”
