Canada’s Para Hockey team, including three local players, won a silver medal following a 2-1 overtime loss to the United States March 18 in Gangneung, South Korea.
The team included defencemen Rob Armstrong and Brad Bowden and forward Bryan Sholomicki, all former Erin residents.
The Canadians took an early lead and held on until the Americans tied it up in the dying seconds of the third frame to force the game to overtime. The U.S. scored in overtime to close out the game.
“Our guys were tremendous. They battled hard. They took Canada’s para hockey program to a silver medal,” said head coach Ken Babey.
“I’m very proud of our team and I’m very lucky to be part of such a great group of young men and such a great organization [as Hockey Canada].”
Babey added his disappointment over Sunday’s loss wasn’t overshadowed by the prospects he sees for the program leading into 2022.
“The veteran players showed a lot of experience, and they bought into the system and the style of play,” he said.
“We’ve taken the style of play to a whole new level, and Canada should be proud of that and our team is proud of that … Our fortunes are looking pretty good for the next quadrennial.”
Canada dominated its opponents through the preliminary round and semifinal play, outscoring Sweden, Italy, Norway, and Korea 42-0 while allowing only 13 shots on goal.
Canada ended the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games with a record of 4-1.
