MACKLIN — A national competition through RONA Canada scored big for 85 minor hockey teams across the country, including one local team.
The U18 Macklin Mohawks were nominated for the competition in mid-September, 2024 by office administrator and co-owner, Lori Cosh.
“RONA Canada decided to recognize 85 minor hockey teams across the country to help celebrate their 85th anniversary, calling it the RONA Rookies. The application highly suggested a connection between the nominated team and RONA, but none of our staff have kids who play minor hockey locally,” she said.
Instead, Cosh looked at the Macklin location’s younger staff members: Blake Stang, Brayden Armstrong, Jackson Russell, Casen Folk and Emeri Cowie, who all play for the U18 Macklin Mohawks.
“I figured the connection between those five boys working here and playing hockey was pretty good, so I put forth the application,” said Cosh.
On Oct. 16, 2024, the team had received word they were one of two teams in the whole province of Saskatchewan to be selected as RONA Rookies. The other team was the U11 team in Meunster. All RONA Rookie teams received bunnyhugs and toques with their team logo, crowd noisemakers, as well as a cheque for $1,000.
“It was kind of funny for the team as the prizes were limited to 22 players and coaches, but the U18 team has 25. We had to make a call to ensure everyone got their winnings,” laughed Cosh.
Jim Meredith, head coach for the U18 Mohawks, said the boys were excited for all their new swag.
“The lobby was insane with everyone putting on their new bunnyhugs and toques. We even have a golden hardhat now and are handing it out after every game,” he added.
As for the cash prize of $1,000, the team has agreed to use the funds towards renting a bus for a future provincial away game.
At the time of publication, the U18 team has been undefeated with a 17-0 record for the 2024-25 season.
