ICE BREAKER! U11 Knights 3 Red Kick Off Season with Thrilling Exhibition Match vs. Raiders

ICE BREAKER! U11 Knights 3 Red Kick Off Season with Thrilling Exhibition Match vs. Raiders

CALGARY, AB – The silence of the offseason was shattered last night as the U11 Knights 3 Red skated onto the ice for their first test of the new hockey season, facing off against a formidable opponent in the Raiders 3 Black. The exhibition game, a crucial tune-up before the official league play begins, delivered high-octane action and a massive wave of enthusiasm from players and parents alike.

From the moment the puck dropped at the VIVO 2, the energy was palpable. For many of the young athletes, this was their first taste of full-ice, 5-on-5 hockey, and they did not disappoint. The Knights, led by Head Coach Chris, demonstrated the relentless forecheck and team speed they've been working on in practices, jumping out to an early lead.

The "Red" Rush Takes Flight

The opening goal came midway through the first period. Knights forward Lewis Schaal (#17), a standout with quick hands, battled hard in the corner and whipped it pas the Goalie. Next  the puck chipped free to sensation Spencer Monette (#18), weaving through the neutral zone with surprising agility, unleashed a wrist shot that blew past the helpless Raiders Goalie. Not to be outdone speedy winger Aydin Jiwa (#13) rushed the net and buried a beauty ! With multiple Breakaways Alston Ferrier (#10) finally not only got 1 past the goalie but 2 GOALS! Ahead by 2 Goals Parker Curley (#19) decided to put the nail in the coffin with amazing shot that was assisted by Alyan Jiwa (#8).

The Raiders, known for their powerful counter-attack, could not muster anything against the motived Knight R3D!

A Defensive Battle and Clutch Saves

The second period turned into a defensive clinic, with both teams tightening up their coverage. Knights defenceman Bella Wallace(#3) being is great position and Blocking a key shot, drawing cheers from the packed stands. The highlight of the period, however, belonged to the Knights' netminders. Facing a flurry of shots during a Raiders rushes, Jacob Gordon #31 and Kingston Perrella (#1) stood tall, flashing the glove on a spectacular sequence of saves to keep the game locked down.

The final minutes were a nail-biter as the Raiders pulled their goalie for the extra attacker. The Knights' defense held strong, absorbing shot after shot and battling for every inch of ice. When the final buzzer sounded, the entire Knights bench erupted in celebration.

More Than Just a Win

While the final score of Knights 6, Raiders 3 was a thrilling victory, the true takeaway was the incredible team effort and the display of sportsmanship from both sides.

"That was a fantastic effort for our first time out," said Coach Chris after the game. "The kids were fast, they played smart, and they never quit. This is exactly the kind of passion we want to bring all season long. We still have a lot to work on, but the R3D (Ready, Relentless, Dedicated) spirit was on full display tonight!"

The U11 Knights 3 Red have set an exciting tone for the season. With the official schedule just around the corner, this opening exhibition victory provides a huge boost of confidence for the young squad as they prepare to battle in the Hockey Calgary Tier 3 South division.