Nov 27, 2023 | Denise Dejong | 162 views
Clinton Optimist Tournament Champions
It took some grit, determination and a lot of persistence but it all paid off when the final buzzer sounded and the scoreboard showed a 3-0 victory for these gold medal champions!
The tourney got started Friday night against a strong Wingham team. The boys knew this game would be fast and physical but they were up for the challenge. It took overtime to do it, but they came out victorious!
Saturday was a test of endurance; three games in one day against all strong opponents, Kincardine, Ilderton and Mitchell. We had faced Kincardine two times already this season, falling to them each time, but each time, improving the finish. This game was no different - a tough battle ended in a 4-1 loss. Ilderton brought a strong offensive game and gave us our second loss of the day. The team knew that game three against Mitchell was a must-win. Despite tired muscles, they dug deep and brought their "A game", winning 7-2. That big win gave us the edge in a points tie breaker and sent us to the gold medal game.
It's an accomplishment in and of itself to have earned the opportunity to play Sunday hockey in a tournament. Kincardine, undefeated all weekend, would be the opponent. The boys knew to expect a fast game and coaches took all we had learned playing them three times before to strategize. It was an outstanding performance to say the least. Our boys had us cheering all game long as they showed us some of the best hockey we've watched so far this season. They had a no-give-up attitude and worked collectively as a team to come out with a 3-0 win!! Special mention to our goalie, Tyler, on his shutout!
Congratulations players and bench staff - well deserved.