The Sundre atom Huskies have every reason to hold their heads high following last month's provincials.
The team not only won its zone to make provincials for the first time, but it also went on to become champions, said coach Ian Barnett.
"It was great" to win the zone championship as well as provincials, he said.
"It was a first for the team."
There were a total of eight teams that competed March 17-20 at the provincial championship in Vegreville ó seven zone champions from around the province and the host team. The Huskies' record at provincials stood at four wins and one loss, he said.
"The boys played with lots of heart and lots of grit ó they did well."
The Huskies played three games in the round robin matches and went on to win the semifinal. They then defeated Provost 4-2 in their fifth and final game to win provincials.
"They beat us in the round robin play 3-2," the coach said. So the Huskies "were very, very excited" to beat Provost in the final and claim first place, he added.
Overall, the atom Huskies also had a great season in the North Central Minor Hockey Association, placing second in the league. The boys played as a team and acted like a unit throughout the season, which the coach attributed as "a big part of our success."
"They learned to depend on one another and lean on one another. That helps tremendously towards the end of the year. When they believe in one another they work hard and don't quit."
The Huskies played for the league banner but lost against Sylvan Lake early in March, he said.
Fans have also been very supportive. Some grandparents even left as early as 3 a.m. to attend the provincial tournament to cheer on the Huskies in Vegreville.
"We had great support."
Among siblings, parents and grandparents, plenty of people were cheering on the team, he said.
"It was fantastic," said the coach, adding he's already looking forward to next year.
