Last weekend, the Dutch Flyers participated in the international ice hockey tournament in Antwerp, organized by the Antwerp Phantoms. In the U11 category, 10 teams competed for the prizes, while in the U13 category, there were 8.
Strong position
The Dutch Flyers started the tournament convincingly. They won five of the six matches in the group stage. The team only had to admit defeat against the host team, the Phantoms. With that, the Flyers finished the first day in an impressive second place, behind the combined team IJshockey Bats.ext time.
Last weekend, the Dutch Flyers participated in the international ice hockey tournament in The basis for this result lay in consistent play and full commitment until the very last second. What stood out most was the strong teamwork: chances were not only created but also granted. Many goals came from good assists following well-executed offensive build-ups. Off the ice, the team also grew closer together. During moments at the hotel, during breaks, and at shared lunches, new friendships were formed that visibly influenced their play on the ice.
Decisive match on day 2
Op de tweede dag stond nog één poulewedstrijd op het programma: de directe confrontatie met de Bats. In deze strijd tussen de nummers 1 en 2 koos coach Jasper Jaspers voor een tactiek met nadruk op solide verdediging en snelle uitbraken vanuit de achterste linie. Het werd een spannende en gelijkopgaande wedstrijd, waarin de Flyers uiteindelijk wonnen. Daarmee eindigden zij als eerste in de poule.
Final rounds and disappointment
In the cross-finals, the first match against the number 8 team was won convincingly. In the semi-final, the Flyers faced the Amsterdam Tigers again. While the Flyers had won 4-3 the day before after an intense duel, things turned out differently this time. Despite an adjusted line formation and hard work, Amsterdam proved more effective and won 1-0.
The disappointment among the players was great. At the same time, it was wonderful to see how players from other teams showed their support. That underscores the power of ice hockey: fierce in the game, respectful off it.
Battle for 3rd place
In the match for third and fourth place against Tilburg Trappers, fatigue seemed to take its toll. The short but intense 15-minute game was lost, causing the Dutch Flyers to finish in fourth place.
Pride and looking ahead
Although it was difficult to accept this result after finishing first in the group, pride prevails. The team displayed strong, consistent, and sporting play. The core values of the Dutch Flyers came clearly to the fore: winning with humility and losing with pride.
Op naar de volgende uitdaging. Volgende keer betere kansen!