Small but mighty U12B Paris Ringette Team wins Gold at London’s Pink in the Rink Tournament

PIctured, back row - left to right, Charlotte Sullivan-Pries, Amelia Carman, Gabby Bird, Charly Chelchowski, Adelyn Robinson. Front row - left to right Jordyn Wallis, Erin Latty, Charlotte Kipp, Grace Brooks. Lying in front - Claire Van Houwelingen.

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

The U12B Paris Ringette team proved that determination and teamwork outweigh numbers, capturing gold at London’s annual Pink in the Rink Tournament, held November 7–9. The young athletes battled through a challenging weekend and clinched the championship title with a 3–1 victory over Chatham in the final.

With only ten players on the roster this season, Head Coach Nicole Kipp describes her squad as “small but mighty.” The team features a mix of new and returning players who, according to Kipp, “meshed immediately” both on and off the ice.

“Everyone contributed to all positions, showing skill, teamwork, and determination in every game,” said Kipp following the Gold medal win. “We couldn’t be prouder of how they came together.”

Goaltending duties were shared throughout the tournament between Adelyn Robinson and Claire Van Houwelingen, who both delivered strong performances. Van Houwelingen took the net for the championship game, turning aside more shots than the team had faced all season to help secure the win.

Facing a powerful and previously undefeated Chatham squad, Paris rose to the challenge with an exceptional defensive effort. “We played a very strong defensive game from all five players on the ice to take the final,” Kipp said. “The girls battled hard right to the final buzzer.”

As the season continues, Kipp said the group’s focus will be on building confidence and skill with each game. “We have lots to build on moving forward,” she added. “We’re excited to keep seeing these girls improve every time they step on the ice.”