Columbus Day Invitational, Connecticut Championship Recap

The Defender Columbus Day Invitational, held in Connecticut from October 12-14, 2024, brought together youth hockey teams across divisions from 8U to 18U. Each team fought hard to claim the championship title in their respective divisions. Here's a recap of the championship games.

8U B Championship Recap

The CT Clippers (4-0-0) defeated ECHO (3-2-0) 9-3 to claim the 8U B division title. The Clippers dominated the first period, scoring six goals and setting the game's tone. While ECHO scored three goals in the second period, the Clippers maintained their lead with a balanced attack to secure the championship.

8U C Championship Recap

The CT Clippers (4-1-0) secured their second division championship with a 7-3 win over the Peconic Wildcats (4-1-0) in the 8U C division. Both teams traded goals in the first period, but the Clippers pulled away in the second, scoring three unanswered goals. The teams remained scoreless in the third, and the Clippers captured the victory.

10U A Championship Recap

The Hartford Jr. Wolfpack (4-0-0) captured the 10U A championship with a 9-4 win over the Northwest Icehawks (3-1-0). The game saw the Wolfpack get off to a strong start with a three-goal first period and maintain their momentum throughout the game. Despite the Icehawks’ efforts, the Wolfpack's consistent offense and defensive control earned them the title.

10U B Championship Recap

MassConn (6-0-0) claimed the 10U B division title with a 6-0 shutout victory over the Hartford Jr. Wolfpack '15 (5-1-0). MassConn built a strong lead with three goals in the first period and never looked back, adding three more goals across the remaining periods while holding the Wolfpack scoreless to secure the championship.

12U A Championship Recap

The Long Island Royals (5-1-0) took home the 12U A division championship with a 6-1 win over the Hartford Jr. Wolfpack '12 (4-2-0). The Wolfpack started the game with a first-period goal, but the Royals responded with six unanswered goals, dominating the second and third periods to claim the title.

12U B Championship Recap

ECHO (5-0-0) edged out the CT Clippers (4-1-0) in a close 3-2 win to secure the 12U B championship. ECHO came out strong in the first period with two goals and managed to hold off a second-period surge by the Clippers to secure the victory with a decisive third-period goal.

14U A Championship Recap

The Northwest Icehawks (5-0-0) claimed the 14U A division title with a 4-1 win over the Reston Raiders (4-1-0). The Icehawks built a substantial lead early, scoring two goals in the first period and two more in the second. The Raiders managed one goal in the second period, but the Icehawks’ defense shut them down in the final period to take home the championship.

16U A Championship Recap

The Reston Raiders (4-1-0) captured the 16U A championship with a 4-2 victory over the Hartford Jr. Wolfpack (4-1-0). The Raiders’ explosive first period saw them score all four goals, while the Wolfpack managed two in response. Despite a hard-fought game, both teams were held scoreless in the final two periods, allowing the Raiders to clinch the title.

18U A Championship Recap

The Northwest Icehawks (5-0-0) dominated the 18U A division championship with a 6-0 shutout win over West Seneca (3-2-0). The Icehawks controlled the game from start to finish, with a solid second period where they scored four goals. West Seneca couldn't find the back of the net, and the Icehawks' solid defense secured their championship victory.

The Columbus Day Invitational, Connecticut, showcased youth hockey players' competitive spirit and impressive skills across all divisions. Each game brought excitement and memorable moments, with teams giving their all to pursue the championship. Congratulations to all the champions and participants for their hard work and outstanding performances throughout the tournament.