The Minto 81's are turning the page on a controversial Ontario Elite Hockey League playoff exit, shifting their focus to a national stage at the Allan Cup in Newfoundland.
For defenceman Stephen Gibson, the opportunity is about more than just another tournament, it’s a chance to finish what the group started.
"It’s a super exciting opportunity...we turned a lot of heads last year," Gibson said. "There’s a lot of unfinished business in the room...our number one goal is to go over there and win this championship."
The 81’s made a strong impression at last year’s Allan Cup, reaching the semifinals despite being considered underdogs. Much of that core is back, and Gibson says the expectation hasn’t changed.
"I don’t think there’s a lot we need to change...playing fast is one of our biggest things," he said. "But defending well is probably the biggest thing. That's what wins championships."
This year’s tournament, set for Conception Bay South, brings together top senior teams from across the country to compete for one of hockey’s oldest and most historic trophies, first awarded in 1909.
For Minto, the road to Newfoundland comes with added emotion.
The team’s season ended abruptly in the OEHL North Conference Final after a controversial Game 6 forfeit against the Ripley Wolves. The ruling, tied to the use of an ineligible goaltender, sparked debate across the league and brought a hard-fought series to an unexpected end.
Gibson called the experience frustrating, especially given how competitive the series had been.
"It was just a shame the way a hard-fought series like that had to end," he said. "But...it’s another added incentive for us to have a really successful experience at the Allan Cup."
Despite the disappointment, the focus inside the room has quickly shifted. Gibson says the group believes a national title would go a long way in defining their season.
"If we can come home with the Allan Cup...we’ll all be very, very pleased and very satisfied," he said.
Questions about the league’s handling of the situation, and the team’s future within it, are still lingering, but for now, they’re taking a back seat.
"I’d say our main focus right now is on the week ahead," Gibson said. "We want what’s best for senior hockey...and we think there’s a bright future for the league."
The 81’s open their Allan Cup schedule against the Stoney Creek Tigers, carrying motivation into a tournament that represents the peak of senior hockey in Canada.
