Ann Arbor Amateur Hockey Association

The Ann Arbor Cougars 12U team participated in the Waterloo Ravens Fall Challenge Cup on November 7-9, 2008 in Waterloo, Ontario.  There were 4 teams in our division, but overall, an impressive ninety teams (all girls) enrolled in the tournament, including our very own Cougars 10U team.  The atmosphere was charged, exciting, and very friendly.

Our key criteria in selecting a fall tournament was that the tournament be competitive with our level of play.  We were not disappointed, as the Cougars took third place with a tournament record of 1 win, 1 loss, and 2 ties.  The game highlights are listed below:

• *The first game ended with a loss of 6-5, with the opposing team scoring their final goal in the last 29 seconds of the game.  There was action up and down the ice, with incredible saves by both goaltenders.
• *In game 2, the Cougars were behind 2-0 against Waterloo (the host team), but had two quick goals at the end of the second period to tie the game and took the lead early in the third period.  A late third period goal by Waterloo tied the game.  The girls received pins from the Waterloo Ravens as a welcoming gesture to the tournament.
• *Once again the Cougars were neck and neck in game 3 against Brantford.  There was an amazing goal by one of the Cougars that included a rebound opportunity, diving towards the puck, and an on-the-knees shot to put us in the lead until the final seconds of the game.
• *The fourth and final game was won with a score of 3-1, as the girls held their ground with a two goal lead most of the game.  One of our players had her first goal of the season and was enthusiastically congratulated by her teammates.
• *In the end, the Cougars ended the tournament with 14 goals, 15 assists, and many, many saves from our incredible goalie.

Our team also had a great experience off-ice as the girls and parents bonded with swimming, group meals, and nightly board and card games.  The girls have become great friends and respect each other tremendously and it shows on the ice!

Thanks to Coach Sandy Hurd and Assistant Coach Kate Pinhey for their continued dedication to the team, and for making this tournament a huge success.

GO COUGARS!