The most exciting types of sports games are the ones that keep you on the edge of your seat. The ones that make you nervous until the clock hits zero. This was the case for the double-overtime thriller at the United Center on March 13, when the Warriors Hockey Club won their 5th AHAI State title over familiar foe Buffalo Grove/Hersey/Wheeling (BGHW) Stampede Hockey Club. Their last matchup was in the 2018 state championship game, where the Stampede came out victorious 7-2.
The game was played at the infamous Chicago stadium, The United Center, which is home to the Bulls and Blackhawks. This iconic arena has witnessed countless legendary moments in the world of sports. From Michael Jordan’s championship triumphs to the Blackhawks’ Stanley Cup victories, the United Center has served as the stage for some of the most historic events in Chicago sports history. The energy in the building fueled by the fans created an unmatched experience. The walls of the stadium echo with greatness.
The Stampede started out fast and strong, scoring two early goals to have a quick lead. The Warriors would return with some of their own offense, eventually leading to last year’s Blackhawk Cup game-winning scorer, James Naffziger, to put one in for the Warriors, narrowing the score down to 2-1.
The Warriors were strong on the ice and in their mindset, not letting the Stampede’s early lead affect their play. They soon equalized in the second period after moving the puck around the zone and finished with a great one-timer goal by Ethan Newburg. The game was back to square one, tied up 2-2.
In the third period, the Warriors’ defense stepped up, highlighted by goalie Sean DeValk, who shut down many Stampede goal attempts. BGHW would get many attempts on the net, one of which was shot by Stampede’s Adrian Wisniewski, but his shot went off the post. By the end of the 3rd quarter, neither team had scored.
So, the Blackhawk Cup will be decided in overtime for a second straight season. In the first session of extra-time, BGHW was on the attack, looking for their chance, but it seemed nothing would get past Devalk for the Warriors. He made many great saves, leading the championship to another scoreless period and sending them to another session of overtime.
During this session, the nerves were high. The crowd was on their feet, waiting to celebrate a winning goal from their team. The Warriors drove the puck down the ice, eventually landing with junior Mustang Jacob Morgan, who took a quick shot, rebounded by Joe Pijankowski. The Warriors are no strangers to these types of stakes and situations, so without a second thought, Pijankowski takes the shot and buries it in the back of the net, scoring the game-winner, crowning the Warriors as state champions again. The game ended with almost 80 minutes of play.
The Warriors are no strangers to championship glory, and the trend continued this year for the team. The biggest stage, the biggest stakes, down 2-0 early, yet, by defeating the BGHW Stampede, the Warriors showed their strength and experience as a team. This match was full of unforgettable moments, intense competition, and unwavering determination, proving that the Illinois Hockey State championship is more than just a game; it’s a passion that unites a team together and creates long-lasting memories that will last a lifetime.
As the Warriors skated off the ice surrounded by the cheers of fans, they not only exited with the trophy in their hands, but they left becoming a part of Warriors Hockey history, a key piece cemented in their legacy forever
