U13 Frontenac Flyers Soar to Silver Stick Victory!

Nov 27, 2024

Flyers Dominate Tournament, Head to International Competition in January

The U13 Rep Frontenac Flyers have brought home the championship banner after sweeping the Silver Stick Regional Tournament in Pembroke this past weekend. The Flyers were a force to be reckoned with, winning all five games, netting an impressive 30 goals, and conceding only three—a testament to their airtight defense, relentless offense, and impenetrable goaltending.

Heading into the tournament, the Flyers faced their share of challenges. A tough loss to Tweed before the tournament highlighted areas for improvement. However, that adversity became fuel for success. The coaching staff, led by Mike Chiasson, sharpened the team’s game plan, focusing on high-tempo play and neutralizing opponents’ strengths. “Coming into this, we knew the competition would be fierce,” shared Assistant Coach Al Lapierre. “But the boys took every lesson from the season so far and turned it into something incredible. They were determined, disciplined, and most importantly, they came together as a team.”

The lead-up to the final game was particularly intense, with high stakes and palpable pressure. Gananoque had crushed opponents that the Flyers had tight games against in the regular season. Coach Lapierre noted how the players leaned on each other to stay focused and confident. “Everyone had their own way of handling the pressure,” he said. “Some spoke with coaches, others strategized with teammates” What stood out was how supportive and unified they were, and how each team member bought into the team strategy. Their flawless execution led to a resounding victory and the coveted title of Silver Stick Champions.

With this win, the Flyers have earned a spot in the International Silver Stick Tournament this January in Forest, Ontario. The experience in Pembroke has instilled a newfound confidence in the players, who now know what they’re capable of when they work together. “There are so many things we’ve worked on in practice that showed up in that championship game,” said Coach Chiasson. “To see it all come together was amazing. I’m incredibly proud of these boys for their hard work, dedication, and belief in each other.” This marks the third year in a row that Coach Chiasson has won Eastern Ontario Regionals and will be leading his team to International competition – an incredible feat considering the level of competition at this tournament.

Chiasson also took a moment to thank the many people who have supported the team’s journey so far. “This victory wouldn’t have been possible without my amazing bench staff—Al Lapierre, Darren Sissons, Paul Mazzeo, and Jason Nelder—who have done tremendous work to develop this team on the ice. Off the ice, the commitment from all players and parents, and the tireless efforts of D’Arci Lapierre, and Holly and Chris Shail behind the scenes have been invaluable. Finally, a special thank you to Jeff Peck and the Executive and Staff of Frontenac Minor Hockey, for the support they provide to all Frontenac Teams, allowing and helping kids in Frontenac County to develop and play hockey.

The Flyers’ journey to the Silver Stick wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the Verona Lions Club. In October, the Lions Club hosted a community breakfast with the team, raising and donating funds to cover the entry fee for this prestigious invitational tournament.

The Flyers’ victory isn’t just a win for the team—it’s a win for the entire Frontenac hockey community. Community support is what makes moments like this possible. We’re grateful to our many Community Sponsors for making this level of hockey possible for our team.

Congratulations to the U13 Rep Frontenac Flyers, our Silver Stick Champions! The community will be cheering you on as you take the next step in Forest this January. Good luck, Flyers—keep flying high!