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Kinistino cruises to Wheatland Hockey League title

Mar 26, 2018 | 7:50 AM

For the first time since 2013, the Kinistino Tigers are champions.

The senior hockey club claimed the Wheatland Hockey League title Friday night in Allan with a 5-2 win over the Flames, sweeping the WHL best-of-five series three games to nothing. Captain Steve Jack, who has been with the club for 16 seasons, said the team had their eyes on the prize throughout the year.

“We had a great group of guys this year, everyone stepped up in different roles. It was nice to see everyone come together in the end to win a championship. That was what we were aiming for all year,” Jack said.

The Tigers swept the Foam Lake Flyers in three games during the semi-finals and beat Allan in three straight games as well to claim the title. Jack said the roster played into the final result.

“Everyone knew their role and knew their place on the team. We had guys for every situation and everything clicked,” he said.

Brendan Turner, 29, was named the playoff’s most valuable player for the Tigers. The Tisdale product now calls Prince Albert home and won a Telus Cup with the AAA midget Mintos in 2008. He said winning a senior hockey league championship was special for him and his teammates.

“To see the look on their faces was awesome. Regardless of what calibre it is, winning is always the goal. It’s a special feeling at the end of the day,” Turner said.

Turner scored twice and added an assist in the game five victory, Tanner Schultz also added three points in the decisive win.

 

clark.stork@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @ClarkStork