The world returned to Bonnyville, and left more impressed than ever.
On Sunday, Dec. 16, the World Jr. A Challenge (WJAC) came to a close with the gold medal game between Team USA and Team Russia.
Co-chair of the planning committee, Robb Hunter, said it was a fantastic tournament.
“I couldn’t be more pleased with how things went, and how it all came together. The volunteers were tremendous, the teams were happy, the Canadian Jr. Hockey League (CJHL), and Hockey Canada were thrilled. Personally, I couldn’t be more excited and proud of the community we live in,” Hunter expressed.
Mayor Gene Sobolewski described the level of hockey as phenomenal.
“It was a treat to watch the talent and the skillset of some of those players... we had close games, heart breaking games, and we had some that were runaways. We had a mixture of everything and it was good hockey,” he recalled.
Team Russia went undefeated, which put them in first in the playoffs. Team USA was close behind with three wins of their own. Team Canada West started the bronze medal matchup in third, while Team Czech Republic claimed fourth, and in fifth was Team Canada East.
During the medal round, it was Team USA that came out on top after defeating Team Russia 2-0 in the final.
Team Canada West claimed the bronze medal, besting the Czech Republic 3-1.
While it wasn’t a medal he was hoping to win for Bonnyville fans, head coach of Team Canada West Rick Swan was happy to share his triumph with local fans.
“(When they) were announcing the lineups, and they said ‘head coach Rick Swan for Team Canada West,’ I just got goosebumps and tears in my eyes because of the special feeling that I could share with the people that supported me so much,” Swan expressed.
He heard numerous comments from fellow coaches and players of the WJAC that they were spoiled during their time in Bonnyville.
“Our town did us proud, and they went above and beyond and really set the standard (for future tournaments). That’s so impressive, and I felt humbled and overwhelmed to be involved in a bigger role with the tournament,” he said.
The tournament may have had a financial spin-off for local businesses, but it also proved that this town can handle a world event, said Hunter.
“I think it proves to Hockey Canada, the country, and Alberta that Bonnyville is a world-class event hosting community. We have the facility, the C2 staff are tremendous and the building is great. Then, we have the volunteers and the friendly nature of people willing to help out and volunteer their time. We’ve gone above and beyond once again, and I think we’ve proven to anyone who looks that Bonnyville is a world-class event hosting community,” Hunter exclaimed.
Sobolewski added, “It’s recognition and affirmation in terms of the strength and quality of our volunteers. Recognition nationally that our community, or our region because it was a regional effort with everybody, that we’re able to pull off something like this. It’s a testament to who we are.”
