The Okanagan’s only U19A team, the KPSW Destroyers, managed to go undefeated at the Provincial A Championships in Burnaby, from March 10 to 13, winning the gold and bringing the banner home to the Okanagan.
Playing on the team was Lauren Pierce, who played for Shuswap Ringette until this year when she moved to Kelowna.
It was only upon winning the provincial championship that the squad officially became Team BC U19 representatives for the Westerns. Because two other teams from the Lower Mainland had also committed to attend, the team had to earn that title, and they did.
Then the work really began. The team had only had nine days to organize flights, local ground transportation, accommodation, daily itinerary, meal plans, etc., as well as physically prepare for the Western Canadian Ringette Championships in Sherwood Park, Alta. on March 23 to 27. Teams from B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba in the U16, U19 and 18+ age divisions were represented.
The girls played really well, had lots of fun and made awesome memories.
The competition was very good and the Okanagan team of dedicated players just wasn’t at the same level as the other provinces. But the team had many personal and team achievements during the tournament, so it was well worth the trip.
The girls practised many hours to reach this extraordinary level and demonstrated work ethic, enthusiasm, team play, dedication and sportsmanship.
The team appreciates the generous support of its dedicated community partners.