The Minto Midgets captured the WOAA Minor Hockey crown on February 1, 2010 by defeating the Durham Huskies 4-0 at the Harriston Arena
Minto started off their playoff run with a 3-0 series sweep over the heavily favoured Wingham Ironmen and carried that momentum into the division championship series against Durham, which began on January 29 in Harriston. Game 1 was a hard fought affair, highlighted by a hat trick scored by Brent Dunbar, leading Minto to a 4-2 win. Game 2 was played on January 31 in Durham. Minto got off to a sluggish start and fell behind 2-0 early in the game before storming back to a 4-3 win on goals by Brett Maher, Jon Ditner, David Hagerman(shorthanded) and Josh Hoffele. Thwarting any comeback, Minto goaltender Brett Cook robbed a Durham player on a breakaway when it appeared he was beaten on a deke. While lying on the ice, he somehow reached back and snagged the puck, taking away a sure goal.
Game 3 was played on February 1 in Harriston. From the drop of the puck, it became clear that, despite several heartbreaking losses in recent years, this time Minto would not be denied the WOAA crown. The game was entirely dominated by Minto as David Hagerman led Minto with a pair of goals(one shorthanded), while Ryan Binkle and Cody MacDonald(captain Mac) added singles for a 4-0 win. Brandon MacDonald continued the outstanding goaltending which frustrated Wingham in the first round, making several difficult save look routine.
As the final buzzer sounded, the players mobbed goaltenders MacDonald and Cook. Captain Cody MacDonald and Assistants Ryan Woestenenk and Jon Ditner were presented with the WOAA trophy by regional convenor Brian Hopper and congratulated on their win. The Midgets won with sportsmanship and class. There were no brooms. There was no taunting. There was, however, a tremendous sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
Coach Steve Henderson,and Assistants Aaron Small and Chad Campbell, will now lead Minto into the all Ontario OMHA playdowns. Minto's opponent in the OMHA quarter final is yet to be determined. Visit mintominorhockey.ca for schedule and updates. Please show your support by attending future games and cheering on your Mad Dogs in their quest for the all Ontario title!