7:30am start time. Every kid jumped out of bed this morning to play the championship game, and even some parents donned their Sunday best to cheer on the kids.
After the players were announced and the national anthem was played.....it was HOCKEY TIME !
In net for the Sabres was none other than #1 Elliot Szabala, and for the Blackhawks #14 Ian Schmidt.
Period 1: Lots of hard skating and passing between the teams made the first 8 minutes of the game exciting. With 2:48 left in the first period, Sabres #10 Matt Bartosz lit up the scoreboard with a goal.
Period 2: Plenty of chances were had by the Blackhawks - most noted was the presence of #15 Ben Wagner who seemed to have a break away nearly every shift. Strong defense and a goalie that was on top of his game kept the puck from going in the Sabres net. A scoreless period still leaves the Sabres up by 1 goal.
Period 3: Blackhawks fought hard to keep the puck in the Sabres end. With a 1:46 left in the game, Blackhawks take an untimely penalty and are only even strength when they pull their goalie. This gives Matt Bartosz a wide open net to put the puck in on his last breakaway. The game is clinched and the buzzer sounds - Sabres take the Squirt Championship for the 2009-2010 season.
Congratulations to all the players this year for their hard work and their love of hockey. Thanks to the parents that drive them to the 6:00am practices and games and endure many games on the cold bleachers. Whether you received a trophy or medallion - Its all about teamwork, friendships made and having fun playing hockey. Have a safe summer. We'll see you all at the rink come October.