Bantam Report

This season NSDMHA had three teams from the Bantam division, one in AA, one in A and one in metro. Our board debated icing an "A" team at the start of the season due to low numbers and whether or not the team would be competitive. In the end three players from New Waterford Minor Hockey came to play with the "A" team because their association did not have enough players to field a team. The "A" team coached by Mike Bishop, did have a very competitive team throughout the season, and having an "A" team this year exposed a number of players to checking for the first time.

The metro team, coached by metro coach of the year Kevin Stairs, did have some issues with having a full roster as they were short skaters from the start of the season due to an odd number of skaters in the division, where there are too many for two teams, but not enough really for three teams. This is beyond the association's control. With the help of some call up players, however, Kevin and his coaching staff were able to compete and complete the season despite not having a full team of 15 skaters. I also want to congratulate Anita MacNeil, who was recognized as manager of the year for her work with the  metro Bantam team as well

The Bantam AA team had a strong season, missing out on first place in the AAA league by one point, the best showing by a Northside team at the Bantam AA level in many years. Unfortunately they were eliminated in the Cape Breton Cup and did not qualify for provincials. I would like to thank Blaine Penny and the coaching staff for their hard work and dedication throughout the season.

Thanks to all the volunteers who work for our children throughout the season.

Shane Ryan

2017-2018 Bantam Coordinator