U11 Taylor Tornados bring home divisional banner

TAYLOR, B.C. — The under-11 Taylor Tornados brought home an A-Division banner following a playoff win over the weekend in Fort Nelson. 

This accomplishment marks the first time an A-Division team has brought home a banner to the Taylor Arena since the 2014-2015 season.

With a record of 12-0-1, the Tornados have had a near-perfect season so far, which head coach Tom McCooeye attributes to the team’s growth as a group. 

“[Bringing home the banner] gives them a great sense of accomplishment. There was a lot of emotion on that bench throughout the season overall, but especially during that [playoff] tournament,” said McCooeye. 

“They’re nine and ten years old, and trying to find that balance where they get excited enough to really engage in the game and play hard, but still maintain some kind of composure so they’re not breaking down at every missed play — it was a neat experience to watch them go through that.”

Up next, the under-11 Tornados will cap off the season at the Spring on Ice Tournament in Edmonton at the end of March. 

The team is seeking donors and sponsors to help with tournament costs. Community members and businesses who are interested in supporting the under-11 Taylor Tornadoes can email treasurer@taylorminorhockey.com for more information.