Silver medals, golden memories

A team of Conception Bay South minor hockey players who made their way to Ottawa last month for a national tournament returned with silver medals and golden memories of how perseverance pays off.
That’s because the Under 15A Renegades’ trip to the 21st Annual National Capital Tournament, held Feb. 20-22, was memorable for far more than just the hockey.

Travel challenges bookended the weekend, with significant weather-related flight delays both at the start and end of the trip. Some families took extended routes — including flights as far as Calgary before returning to Ottawa — while others relied on PAL Airlines milk runs or drove to Gander to secure departures. Following the tournament, it took some players and families two to three days to finally make their way home.

Despite the travel disruptions, the team remained focused, said team manager Lori Buckle.

“Several delayed players were unable to arrive in time for Game 1,” said Buckle. “When they reached Ottawa ahead of Game 2, their luggage — including their hockey equipment — had not arrived. In a strong show of teamwork and community support, parents quickly gathered spare gear so the players could take to the ice. The borrowed equipment carried them through the game until their bags arrived hours later.”

The team also relied on a local call-up goaltender for their opening game while awaiting the arrival of their own goalie.

Throughout the weekend, the Renegades demonstrated composure and determination, Buckle said, competing in tightly contested matchups and battling through overtime play. Their effort earned them a Silver Medal finish in the highly competitive tournament.

“Off the ice, the players made the most of their time in the nation’s capital, skating on the Rideau Canal and sharing team meals, strengthening friendships that extended beyond the rink,” Buckle added. “What could have derailed the tournament instead strengthened the group. The Renegades returned home with silver medals — and with a shared experience that showcased resilience, teamwork, and community spirit at its best.”