The Alberta Junior Female Hockey League (AJFHL) witnessed an epic battle for supremacy in the 2023-2024 season's championship game as the Edmonton Wolves squared off against the Cochrane Chaos on March 16, 2024. In a match filled with suspense and adrenaline-pumping action, the Wolves emerged victorious, clinching the coveted championship title with a final score of 2-1 against the Chaos after finishing first overall in the regular season and undefeated during their playoff run - sweeping the series in 3 straight!
Highlights:
1st Period:The Wolves drew first blood in a fiercely contested opening period, with #14 Logan Basterash finding the back of the net. Assisted by Nayha Johal and Brooklyn Piebiak, Basterash's goal set the stage for an intense showdown between the two teams.
The Chaos' #23 Emily Fries incurred a penalty for body checking, setting the tone for a physical battle on the ice.
2nd Period:Undeterred by the Wolves' early lead, the Chaos fought back in the second period, showcasing their offensive prowess. #7 Erika Wenzel delivered a crucial goal for the Chaos, courtesy of an assist from Kelly Stanford, levelling the playing field and reigniting the Chaos’s hopes of clinching victory.
Both teams faced penalties as the stakes escalated. The Chaos received a penalty for a delay of game, while the Wolves' #10 Brigitte Hetu and #15 Kelly Stanford found themselves in the penalty box for cross-checking and tripping, respectively.
3rd Period:With the championship title hanging in the balance, both teams raised their game to new heights in a thrilling third period. It was the Wolves who ultimately seized the moment, as #16 Carolyne Lavoie capitalised on an opportunity to score, with Rory Bothwell providing the crucial assist. Lavoie's goal proved to be the decisive moment of the game, propelling the Wolves to glory and securing their status as champions of the 2023-2024 AJFHL season.
As tensions reached a boiling point, penalties continued to be a factor in the game's outcome. The Chaos' #7 Erika Wenzel was penalised for interference, while the Wolves' #3 Ainsley McCoy-Birk received a penalty for head contact, underscoring the intensity of the championship clash.
Despite the challenges and setbacks faced by both teams, the Edmonton Wolves showcased resilience, determination, and unwavering teamwork to emerge triumphant in the face of adversity. Their victory serves as a testament to their skill, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence throughout the season.
As the curtain falls on another exhilarating chapter of AJFHL action, the Edmonton Wolves etch their names in AJFHL history as the champions of the 2023-2024 season. Congratulations to the Wolves on their remarkable achievement, and hats off to the Cochrane Chaos for their spirited performance in a hard-fought championship battle. Until next season, the AJFHL continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling displays of talent, passion, and sportsmanship on the ice.