The Hawks Bantam Team 5 coached by Pat Tagler showed up to the NIHL Gold Championship game of the Blackhawks Tournament with a lot of fanfare and celebration this past Sunday. The Hawks parents enjoyed a police escort on their arrival to the Inwood Ice Arena in Joliet… it was quite an entry filled with excitement and expectation by players, coaches, and families.

After a variety of pre-game announcements and ceremonial activities (including the Moms Dance Content), the game kicked off… and the Yellowjackets took an early 2-goal lead. The Hawks struggled throughout the first and second period to get clean shots on goal. By the end of the 2nd period, the Yellowjackets were up by 3 goals (3:0).

The Hawks attempted to rally in the 3rd period scoring 2 goals (Mitch F. and Charlie Z.), but the Yellowjackets answered back. It was a battle to the end… The Yellowjackets won 4:2 over the Chicago Hawks. Both teams played hard. Overall, it was fun and a memorable experience for all who participated in the event.

Congratulations to the Yellowjackets for their excellent play and sportsmanship!

The parents and players want to sincerely thank the Hawks coaches (Pat Tagler, Reggie Matthews, Ron Herschbach, and Jeremy Lizik) and managers (Joe Rihani and Dan Knox) who laid the foundation of the team’s success. 

Also, Thank you, parents, for your support of the players throughout the season.