The Delhi Norwich U11A 59ers captured a historic International Silver Stick championship this past weekend in Sarnia, competing against 15 elite teams from across North America, including teams from Colorado and Florida. With a challenging format allowing little margin for error, only pool winners and one wild card advanced to the playoffs.
The 59ers opened the tournament in impressive fashion, defeating the Littleton Hawks (Colorado) 5–2, followed by a strong 5–1 win over the Port Huron Flags (Michigan). On Day 2, the team continued its winning ways with two tightly contested 2–1 victories over the Whitby Wildcats and Upper Ottawa Valley Aces, finishing pool play undefeated and first in their group.
The 59ers faced Centre Wellington Fusion in a back-and-forth battle, coming from behind multiple times to earn a thrilling 4–3 win. In the championship final against the host Sarnia Sting, the 59ers struck early but trailed late into the third period. Never giving up, they tied the game with four minutes remaining, took the lead with just over two minutes left, and sealed the victory with an empty-net goal.
The team finished with a 6-0 record and the coaching staff was super impressed by the team’s determination, composure, and never-quit attitude throughout the tournament. A truly memorable achievement—congratulations to the players and coaches on a well-deserved International Silver Stick championship!