Nerves were running high on February 13th at the Brainerd Hockey Areana during the Section 8AA championship hockey game.
“Before the game, I was not that nervous until I actually started warming up and saw the other team,” said Senior Sydney Driver. “When we were on the ice doing starting line ups, my stomach starting flipping and I got butterflies.”
During the first period, the momentum went back and fourth between the Bison and the Rams. The bison had a break down in their defensive end which resulted in the Rams first goal.
“After the first period, we were down 1:0 and the atmosphere was so weird. We were all really calm and we just refused to lose,” explained Driver.
After the second period, the Bison went into the locker room tied 2:2 against the Rams.
The Bison Girls Hockey Team pulled through to a win after being down 2:0 at the beginning of the second period to beat the Roseau Rams 4:2.
“When we won the game after coming back from being down two goals, it was the greatest feeling ever. I will always remember the feeling. When I got out of the locker room, I looked at my dad and I could tell he was proud of me.” said Driver.
Tears were shed by the players, coaches, and parents after the win with the realization that the team was going to get the opportunity to play in the MSHL Girls Hockey Tournament. For many players, the opportunity to get a chance play at the Excel Energy Center and to play in a state tournament is the ultimate goal. The girls have devoted a large amount of time to completing this goal by playing year round and by practicing on Saturday mornings. Their hard work has paid off.
“Winning the game and going to the state tournament is honestly one of the best things I could ask for and I would not want to be there with any other team.” said Driver.
This will be the very first state appearance for the Bison Girls Hockey Team since the split with the Wright County Blades in 2005.
The Bison will being playing on Thursday at 1:00PM against the Edina Hornets.
“We can do it and we will show everyone we are meant to be there.” says Driver.
