Squadron of Spitfires Victorious in Rayside-Balfour

RAYSIDE-BALFOUR - With the 2008-09 hockey season soon coming to a close, the Partner’s-in-Law Major Bantam AA Spitfires flew into Rayside Balfour and captured the Tiger Invitational Tournament on the weekend. With all cylinders firing, the Spitfires went 3-0 in the round robin with wins over the Blind River Bulls (6-2), Timmins Ready Quip (9-1) and the host team Rayside Balfour Tigers (4-2). This record earned the team top spot going into the semi-finals.

As part to this annual tournament, selected players from each team competed in a skills competition. With the Spitfires’ hard work all season long on the ice and at North Bay’s Elite Hockey paying off, the players were able to bring home 4 out of a possible 6 awards. Winners included, Brad Cauchy-Forward Agility, Ryley Valade - Accuracy Shooting, Kenny Appleby - Goalie Agility, and Danny Desrochers – Shoot Out.

The Spitfires fought hard to win the semi-final game over the Valley East Rebels (2-1). With overflowing confidence and pure teamwork the Spitfires captured the championship with a 6-1 victory over the Nickel Center Flyers.

Having grown as a team from the opening face-off of the season, the Partner’s-in-Law Spitfires are now on the push to capture the regional N.O.H.A. Championship in March. Representing North Bay, the N.O.H.A., and WFMHA at the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) Major Bantam AA Provincial Championships in April has been the team’s goal all season.

Members of the Spitfires’ team include; Kenny Appleby, Tyler Besner, Mike Perrin, Travis Rose, Jim Tulloch, Owen Polson-Mowatt, Joey Boulet, David Ford, Danny Desrochers, Garrett Hatherley, Brad Cauchy, Anthony Celebre, Jordan Sutcliffe, Ryley Valade and Michael Carr. Coaching staff includes Trevor Vienneau, Jamie Vienneau, David Rose and Robin Boulet (manager).

Submitted to BayToday.ca