Polar Bears Win Thanksgiving Tournament

WARWICK - When most of us were satisfying our cravings for turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie, the Polar Bears remained hungry to win another tournament and they did not disappoint. The Hudson Valley Polar Bear Squirt team, comprised of local 9 and 10 year old players, won the North American Fall AA Division Championship in Marlboro, Mass., on Nov. 24 - 26. After a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to the South Shore Kings in the opening round, the Polar Bears remained focused and determined to win. Their blue-collar efforts on the ice paid off and the Polar Bears won their remaining two games against the Portland Pirates and the Seacoast Spartans. As a result of their victories and having a 2-1 record the Polar Bears qualified for the AA divisional play-offs held on Sunday. As the tournament progressed the Polar Bears intensified their gritty style of play and effectively executed fundamental hockey principals. The Polar Bears were rewarded for their hard work and effort by outscoring their opponents by over 6 goals in both the semi-final and final games. In the end, the Polar Bears record was 4-1 at this tournament and they have extended their tournament record to 9-1 and captured two tournament titles so far this season. The Polar Bears are coached by Dwight Healey - Goshen, Rob Clerc - Wappingers Falls, Rob Malota - Warwick, Rob Feldman - Goshen, and Joe Miano - Campbell Hall.