Photos: Kat Britten
Junior Open - 20 teams battle for the podium in Edmonton
The Open division has 20 teams this year, up from 16 in 2015. BC sends seven teams with Alpha, last year’s runner ups, followed by Misfit and Bonfire (same top three teams as in the Women’s division). The Prairies bring four teams with MOFO (bronze in 2015), Manitou, Spitfire and Wheaties. Ontario follows with a contingent of 4 teams: TORO (last year’s champions), Ignite, Uproar, and Energy. The hosts, Alberta, take advantage of the distance by sending 3 teams: Canons, Fallout, and Outlaw. Atlantic Canada returns with bEast as does Hydro from Québec. There will be a heated battle for gold with the following six teams as the most likely contenders: TORO, Alpha, MOFO, Hydro, Manitou, and Misfit.
Much like in past years, the major Ultimate centers in BC, Winnipeg, and Ontario have the best shots at a medal. However, the past year has seen strong performances from the smaller centers in Alberta and Québec. This may be the year where we see a breakout performance that allows a program to make its mark on the national stage. Even so, the growth of the junior divisions is an important benchmark and one that we should make an effort to sustain. This can only happen if we continue to involve ourselves in our local communities and ensure that youth are engaged with our sport.
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