Jr. Ringette squad heading to championship tourney

The North Bay Paramedics/CTS Canadian Career College Junior A ringette team left Wednesday for the Provincial A championship tournament in Sault Ste Marie.

With an impressive tournament record of four gold medals in as many tournaments this season, the West Ferris rep squad is a serious threat to bring home a medal from the
season wrap-up tournament.

In their opener Thursday morning, the Bayites will square off against the southern region entry from Hamilton. This team also has an impressive record this season and is presently ranked first in the Central Ontario Ringette League. They have not met the local squad this season.

The afternoon contest will pit them against rival Valley East, the northeast region champs. The two teams are evenly matched and are heavily favored to make it to the final on Sunday.

While the WFRA team has won all four tournaments, they have had losses to London, Nepean and Valley East. The competition at Provincials will be tough and the tournament itself could see the West Ferris crew play a potential eight games over the weekend.

Throughout the four day tourney, the Paramedics will meet provincial reps from all Ontario regions including Nepean (eastern), London (western), Ajax (central) and Thunder Bay (northwestern).

Coaches Karen Cook and Kaz Lutecki are very proud of the team.

"The team has prepared hard for the championships both on and off the ice. They have had a great work ethic throughout the season," said Cook.

"Their dedication and determination ensured them an opportunity to compete."

The Junior A squad has dedicated their season to Mrs. Agnes Jacks. Mrs. Jacks was an amazing woman that meant the world to all of them. Her presence at the opening ceremonies will be truly missed this year. She was present at last year's opening ceremonies in Pembroke two weeks before she passed away.

Team members include: Alexandra Parker, Amanda Storie, Courtney Whitwell, Melissa Closs, Drew Elliott, Brianna Belzile, Brittany Lamers, Trista Strange, Sarah Trottier, Janelle Martin, Jaimie Fitzer-Ross, Carolyn Closs and Tanesha Hamelin

Coaches: Kaz Lutecki, Karen Cook

Trainer: Nancy Trottier

Manager: Barry Elliott

Power Skating Coach: Tim White

Submitted to BayToday.ca