The Brooks Bandits dominated the Western Canada Cup Awards Gala May 5.
With teams, dignitaries and fans gathered at the South Okanagan Events Centre, four members of the Bandits collected awards, as did Penticton Vees captain Nicholas Jones, as the tournament paused for a night to recognize the players.
Making the All-Tournament team was Bandits Mitch Benson, Cale Makar, Parker Foo and Josh McKechney, along with Mackenzie Dwyer of the Portage Terriers and Jones. Foo was named the top scorer (seven points), Benson the top goalie (four wins, 1.51 goals against average and .938 save percentage) and MVP, Makar top defenceman and Jones top forward.
Jones said it was nice to be recognized.
“I play with two good linemates (Chris Klack and Duncan Campbell) and ultimately we’re here because we won our league,” said Jones. “We’re not here for individual awards. We’re here to make it onto the Royal Bank Cup. It’s nice to be recognized.”
Even though Jones was named the top forward for the WCC, he doesn’t feel he has played his best.
“I haven’t been at my best,” he said. “I have to be better for tomorrow (Saturday).”
Penticton alumni Brendan Morrison, Andy Moog and Troy Stecher were on hand as well, as the three took part in a media panel.
The playoff round kicks off today with the Vees facing the Battlefords North Stars at 2 p.m. PT, in the third versus fourth elimination game. That evening it’s the undefeated Brooks Bandits battling the Chilliwack Chiefs for the Western Canada Cup championship at 7 p.m. PT. Tickets are $25 and are available at the Valley First box office (at the SOEC), or online at www.valleyfirsttix.com. All games at the Western Canada Cup are streamed live and in HD on www.HockeyTV.com.
