The Stirling Blues U9MD team has plenty to celebrate this holiday season, heading into their Christmas break with an undefeated record (unofficial) after a strong showing in two road games over the weekend. Demonstrating resilience, teamwork, and determination, the young Blues continue to impress as they build momentum for the second half of their season.
Saturday morning saw the Blues take on the Napanee Stars in an early matchup that didn’t start as planned. A slow opening few minutes put the Blues on their heels, but they quickly found their rhythm and dominated the game from there. The team skated away with a convincing victory, a testament to their ability to bounce back under pressure. Special recognition goes to Eli Gunning, who stepped up in a big way, altering his plans to join the team in goal. With regular netminder Elliott Eady under the weather, but still showing incredible team spirit by supporting from the bench, Gunning’s presence ensured the Blues were ready to compete.
Sunday’s game was the anticipated showdown against the Brighton Bolts, and it didn’t disappoint. Both teams brought energy and intensity to the afternoon contest, exchanging goals in a tightly contested first half. The Bolts briefly took the lead, but the Blues maintained their composure, rallying together with their trademark teamwork and determination. Despite a slimmed-down roster for the game, the Blues showcased their depth and chemistry, eventually grinding out a hard-earned victory.
With back-to-back wins on the weekend, the Stirling Blues head into the holiday break undefeated and full of confidence. Beyond their on-ice success, the team continues to embody the spirit of the season with their camaraderie and collective effort.
Looking ahead, the Blues will play their final half-ice game shortly after the break before embarking on an exciting new chapter in their season. The team is set to compete in their first full-ice tournament in Haliburton, a milestone moment for this talented group of young players.
As the Blues take some well-deserved time to rest and enjoy the holidays, they do so with a strong sense of pride in their accomplishments and plenty of anticipation for what’s to come in the new year.