Championship Games Recap
The Kruel Summer Shootout, held from May 17-19, 2024, brought together an impressive lineup of girls’ hockey teams from the 10U to 19U divisions. This tournament showcased the competitive spirit and skill of young athletes, culminating in a series of thrilling championship games. Below are detailed recaps of the finals across the various divisions.
10U Championship
The 10U championship featured a dramatic clash between the Troy Albany Ice Cats (4-0-0) and the Devil Dogs (2-2-0). The Devil Dogs struck first with an early goal by Maia Toomey in the opening period. The Ice Cats responded in the second period with two goals, one each from Brynn Basiuk and Grace Kreiger, but Toomey quickly equalized for the Devil Dogs. In the final period, Basiuk scored the game-winning goal, her second of the match, to secure a 3-2 victory for the Ice Cats and maintain their perfect record.
12U Championship
In the 12U division, the Lady Selects (4-0-0) continued their unbeaten streak with a 4-2 victory over the Black Bear Selects (2-2-0). The Lady Selects took an early lead in the first period with a goal by Farrah Lattarulo. The second period remained scoreless, but the third period was action-packed. The Black Bear Selects tied the game with goals from Vicky Pekarchik and Luca Shoaf Kozak. However, the Lady Selects pulled ahead with Lattarulo scoring the game-winner, followed by an insurance goal from Serri Saypol, sealing their championship win.
14U Championship
The 14U final saw the Miss-Fits (4-0-0) triumph over the Lady Selects (2-2-0) with a 2-1 victory. The Miss-Fits took the lead in the first period with a goal from Olivia Pelle, assisted by Tomasina Cinquino and Lauren Letts. The game remained tight with no goals in the second period. In the third, Sabrina Scali scored the game-winning goal for the Miss-Fits. The Lady Selects managed a late power play goal from Mimi Hawkins, assisted by June Kleiner, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Miss-Fits’ lead.
16U Championship
In the 16U championship, the Lynchburg Coyotes (3-1-0) secured a 2-0 shutout victory over the Lady Selects (3-1-0). After two scoreless periods, the Coyotes broke the deadlock in the third with a game-winning goal by Eleanor Johnson, assisted by Bella Coppoliono. Amelia Perham added an insurance goal with assistance from Abigail Greer, ensuring the Coyotes’ victory and their strong defensive performance throughout the game.
19U Championship
The 19U final featured a tense matchup between the Black Bear Selects (4-0-0) and the Lynchburg Coyotes (2-2-0). The game remained scoreless through the first two periods, with both teams displaying strong defensive play. In the third period, Isabel Bright scored the game-winning goal for the Black Bear Selects, securing a 1-0 victory and maintaining their undefeated record in the tournament.
The Kruel Summer Shootout ended with thrilling and competitive championship games in each division. Each team displayed impressive skill and determination, making the tournament a standout event. The performances highlighted the potential and talent of the young athletes, capping off a weekend of high-level hockey competition.