For The Townsman
This past weekend, the Cranbrook Atom Players Bench Jets hosted an exciting weekend of minor hockey action at the Memorial Arena and Western Financial Place, welcoming seven out-of-town teams to the Key City.
The Jets cruised to a round-robin record of 3-1-0 heading into semifinal action, where they went head-to-head with the 4-0-0 Kimberley Dynamiters.
The two squads battled back and forth, with the Jets edging to a 6-4 victory over the Nitros, booking a ticket to the gold-medal game against the West Kelowna Warriors.
The Nitros were left to compete for bronze against Trail. Battling back from a 2-0 deficit, the game was tied 4-4 in the late stages, before Trail tallied late in the third period to claim the bronze medal with a 5-4 triumph.
In the gold-medal finale, the Jets were grounded by the Warriors 4-1 as the visitors from West Kelowna claimed top prize, leaving the hosts with silver.
The Players Bench Jets wish to extend a sincere thank you to all parents and volunteers who worked tirelessly to make the weekend a success, both on and off the ice. The Jet also extend gratitude to many in the Cranbrook business community for donating gifts and lending support along the way.