Jr. B Tigers Open Playoff Run On Home Ice

The Vermilion Jr. B Tigers opened their playoff run February 28 on home ice against the Wainwright Bisons, drawing a packed crowd that filled the arena parking lot before puck drop. Fans were welcomed by Vermilion Credit Union volunteers working the gate and 50/50 table.

Saturday’s guaranteed $2,000 50/50 jackpot was sponsored by Southview Trucking Ltd., Webb’s Machinery Ltd., and Vermilion Iron Works Ltd. The Tigers also partnered with the Vermilion RCMP, with community members bringing cash donations and food items in support of local residents.

Prior to the game, several Tigers were honoured with Northeast Alberta Junior B Hockey League (NEAJRBHL) awards presented by league President Keith Wilkinson and Secretary-Treasurer Sharon Earl. Cade Meiklejohn was named League MVP and Regular Season Goal Scoring Leader, Aiden Fox earned Top Goalie honours, Ean Cooke was named Defenseman of the Year, and head coach Danny Haygarth received Coach of the Year recognition.

Following the presentations, Vermilion battled hard but fell 4–0 to the Bisons in Game One.

The Tigers returned to the ice the following night determined to respond. Meiklejohn opened the scoring in the first period, assisted by Pavka, giving Vermilion a 1–0 lead. In the second, Wainwright answered, but the Tigers regained control with Meiklejohn scoring again from Romanchuk and Pavka, followed by a Pavka goal assisted by Davidson and Cooke to make it 3–1.

The Bisons narrowed the gap in the third period, but Haygarth, assisted by Scott, secured a 4–2 Tigers victory to even the series.

Lakeside Pharmacy supported Sunday’s game by working the gate and hosting Chuck-A-Puck, while College Park Motors Player of the Game honours went to Gage Haygarth.

With a weekend split, the Tigers continue their playoff push backed by strong community support both on and off the ice.