Jr. Lightning Strike Early: A Month One Recap

When the Durham West Junior Lightning first stepped on the ice together on August 25th, the season was only days away. Five weeks, a handful of practices and eight games later, this group has already given everyone plenty to be excited about.

A Perfect Preseason Start

The Lightning opened with a 4–3 home win over the Whitby Wolves on August 29th. They carried that momentum into the Cambridge Exhibition Series, edging the Kingston Ice Wolves 3–2 and the Bluewater Hawks 5–4. All three wins were decided by a single goal, an early sign of a team that competes until the final buzzer.

Memories Made in Minnesota

In mid-September, the team travelled to Minnesota for the NCAA Division I Trip to take on Shattuck St. Mary's, the University of St. Thomas and the University of Minnesota. The games drew a strong turnout of Division I scouts. Competing against Division I talent and programs was an experience our players and their families will remember for a lifetime. It was also a valuable measuring stick for how high this group can climb.

League Play Begins

The league season opened on September 26th with a 4–3 road win over the Brampton Canadettes. The next day, the Lightning battled the Etobicoke Dolphins in a hard-fought, back-and-forth game before falling 4–1.

Just Getting Started

With only a few practices under their belts, the team has made remarkable progress, and the best is still ahead. The Lightning hit the road this weekend to face the Cambridge Rivulettes on October 2nd and the London Devilettes on October 3rd. Thank you to every family, coach and supporter who helped make this first month one to remember. Go Lightning!