Laughter and applause filled the room when the Bonnyville Bandits celebrated their year-end banquet.
On Sunday, Dec. 8, players joined their friends and family at Notre Dame Elementary School to celebrate the past season and everything the team accomplished.
“I’d like to thank God for this incredible opportunity to instill some important values in these young men and women so they may carry them over in their lives to bless others,” expressed head coach Robbie Cole.
Although Cole wasn’t expecting to step into the role of head coach at the beginning of the season, he was grateful he did.
“Three weeks prior to this season starting, I found out that I was going to have the chance to be head coach. I’m not going to lie, I wasn’t ready or looking forward to the extra work considering we had just had a new baby two weeks prior. I figured I’m a pretty spontaneous person with everything in my life, and after talking to a few people, I figured I was the best candidate available at the time considering my eight years with the team. That’s when I decided I was going to be the best that I could be with this opportunity.”
The Bandit who showed the most development over the season was Sean Faithful. He received the most improved award.
The rookie of the year honour went to Alex Maruniak.
The linemen were next to be recognized. The defensive lineman of the year went to Cooper Prybysh, while Aiden Stark was chosen for the offensive line. The offensive backfield lineman award was presented to Nico Tremblay, and Lou Iggyook was named this season’s defensive backfield lineman.
The heart and hustle award was presented to Matteo Godbout.
The title of special teams MVP went to Julian Gutierrez-Rojas, and offensive MVP was given to Titus Fagnan. Alex Cardinal took home defensive MVP, and the team overall MVP award went to Connor Critch.
Critch was blown away when he heard his name called.
“It felt great. I love the sport, I’ve got such a great passion for it, everyone cheers me on, and it really feels great,” he expressed.
The announcement also held a special meaning for the centre, who’s brother, Liam Critch, won the same award during the Renegades banquet that evening.
“I feel like we both have great opportunities for next season considering he plays next year with me. I hope that as brothers it will give us a better bond, and we can get farther in the league and make bigger plays.”
Cole thanked his fellow coaches, parents, and volunteers for making the season such a success.
