Youth hockey earns second in big tournament

The Glacier Avalanche 10U (squirts) hockey team had an incredible season. They are a great, energetic and happy group of 9-11 year-old boys and girls.

The squirts have practiced and played together since October. They went undefeated during their regular hockey season with a final record of 15-0-5.

Last weekend, they hit the road and traveled to Billings for the 2023 Montana Amateur Hockey Association State Championship in the 10U/B Division.

They were the second-seeded team heading into the tournament. They faced three tough and talented teams throughout pool and elimination play, tied one game and won two intense games.

Their 2-0-1 record secured them a spot in the championship game on Sunday versus a very physical and skilled team from Butte.

Every single player on the Whitefish team contributed to the game in a big way: blocking shots, taking tough hits and peppering Butte’s goalie with everything they had. They poured their hearts into playing until the final buzzer when Butte ended up on top.

There’s a saying in hockey, "leave everything out on the ice,” and that’s just what this team did. The Glacier Avalanche secured a very respectable and well-earned second place in the state of Montana for their age and division.

Many thanks to the Glacier Hockey Association, coaches, parents and managers who helped make this season so successful and fun. The local hockey community is very proud of this team!