Feb 21, 2025 | Matt Gagnon | 605 views
NORFOLK U9MD TIER 1 MAKES HISTORY WITH SILVER STICK CHAMPIONSHIP!
For the first time in Norfolk Knights history, a team has captured a Silver Stick Championship, and the U9MD Tier 1 squad did it in dominant fashion.
The journey began with a slow start in Game 1 against Elmvale, as the Knights found themselves trailing 2-0 heading into the second period. But once they hit their stride, there was no stopping them. Norfolk stormed back to secure a 5-3 victory, setting the tone for the rest of the tournament.
With momentum on their side, the Knights put on an offensive clinic in the next two round-robin matchups. They overpowered the Wasaga Area Stars 14-1 and followed up with a 7-0 shutout against the Owen Sound Attack, finishing the round robin with a perfect 3-0 record.
In the semifinals, Norfolk faced the South Grey Spartans and didn’t take their foot off the gas, delivering an 11-1 statement win to punch their ticket to the Silver Stick final.
The championship game saw the Knights go up against a talented Mid Huron Huskies team in what was expected to be a battle. Norfolk executed their game plan flawlessly, working hard, playing as a team, and stepping up when it mattered most.
Keegan Wentzel opened the scoring with a beautiful breakaway goal, but Mid Huron responded quickly, tying the game at 1-1 heading into the second. The Knights continued to apply relentless pressure, testing the Huskies' goaltender time and time again. Mid Huron held strong for much of the game, but Ezra Bezzo delivered in the clutch, finishing off a perfect one-touch pass from Lane Smith late in the third to seal the Silver Stick championship for Norfolk.
Through five games, the Knights outscored their opponents 39-6, showcasing an incredible team effort at both ends of the ice. Desmond Silkiewycz and Emma Lavallee were rock-solid between the pipes, providing the goaltending backbone that fueled Norfolk’s historic run.
Playing five games in two days, the Knights’ determination never wavered. From Game 1 to the final buzzer, they refused to be denied. This championship was built on hard work, execution, and a true team-first mentality—a performance that will be remembered as a defining moment for Norfolk Knights hockey.
Congratulations to the Norfolk U9MD Tier 1 team—Silver Stick Champions! 🏆🔥