It's an exciting time for Forest Xtreme Ringette.
The U16A team will compete as Team Ontario at the Eastern Canadian Ringette Championships (ECRC) after capturing a third straight Ontario title in March.
This year's competition will take place in Pierrefonds, Quebec from April 17 to 20.
Two years ago they brought home a silver from the event and last year they captured bronze.
Forest Xtreme Ringette Association President Rachel Orvis said she's extremely proud of the girls.
"These girls have worked hard all year long and to have it be three years in a row is incredible and unbelievable," said Orvis. "I have a daughter on the team as well, so this is her second year going. We're so super proud of how these girls have done this season."
Orvis said the team has been busy preparing.
"They have on ice training especially, so there's a lot of that they'll be doing, working on their plays and doing a lot of conditioning for their skating," she said. "The games themselves, they're 15 minutes per period but it is constant skating. It's a very tough sport and it's a very fast sport."
At provincials, held in Sault Ste. Marie, the team had a perfect 7-0 record, outscoring their opponents 28-8.
They captured the gold medal after a hard fought final against Ottawa.
U16A head coach Dennis Kremer reflected on their season.
"Beginning in September, our girls set a collective goal to represent Team Ontario at easterns," said Kremer. "Their unwavering commitment and relentless effort throughout the season, both on and off the ice, have been exceptional as they prepared for provincials." Kremer said the season has been filled with fun, camaraderie, and remarkable experiences, including two thrilling games against Nova Scotia during the Ajax tournament which he called a true highlight for the team. "I am incredibly proud of their hard work, dedication, and positive attitudes throughout the season," he said. "They continue to amaze me with their passion for the sport and the strong bond they’ve developed as a team. It has been a privilege to watch them grow together, and their progress has been truly inspiring.”
Forest Xtreme Ringette has a successful history of competing in the ECRC tournament in the past.
The U19A won Team Ontario in 2019 and 2023, while the U16A Team went as the “wild card” in 2022 and has competed as Team Ontario in each of the past three years.