The U16A Eastman Heat ringette team recently wrapped up a particularly successful season. After winning their Provincials in overtime, they qualified to represent Manitoba at the Western Canadian Ringette Championships in Calgary from March 27–30.
The Heat is made up of players throughout the Eastman community who amalgamated this year with those from the Interlake, Northwest, and River East due to a lack of numbers in their age category in individual clubs.
The Heat started off the championships with a bang, defeating the host city in overtime. They lost their next two games but won the fourth match to put them in the semifinal.
At the halftime mark, Manitoba was down 3–0, but they were far from out.
According to Leanne Harder, mother of 14-year-old Natalie Harder of Niverville, says that this was when the best part of the tournament took place.
“The clock was having some technical difficulties, [so the arena was] playing music while we were waiting for the game to continue,” says Leanne. “A few players from the hosting Bow View ringette team started dancing on the ice in front of their net to ‘Cadillac Ranch.’ Natalie went over and started dancing with their players, [and they all] did a line dance together in front of their net. The crowd and benches all cheered the players on!”
The Heat did ultimately lose that game 6–2. But after receiving their bronze medals, the players from both teams hit the ice again and line-danced some more.
Natalie says that this final match will likely form a core memory in her life.
“This game was a great way to end a great season with the girls and coaches who have all given me so many experiences and memories,” she says.
Leanne Harder agrees with her daughter. “What an amazing and memorable experience for all players. The Alberta parents and associations were so impressed with our Manitoba sportsmanship and spirit. It was the talk of the tournament! I think this was a great representation of what ringette is all about and a proud moment for our girls.”
