Our final regular-season roundup for the Sylvan Lake Minor Football Association features the two youngest divisions, with both the U13 Bears and Atom Tigers in action over the Thanksgiving weekend.
With the teachers’ strike continuing, the Bantam Lions and HJ Cody Lakers seasons remain on indefinite hold.
TIGERS
The Atom Tigers, coming off a rough outing in Drumheller, bounced back with a much-improved showing in Red Deer, turning in strong performances against both the Lacombe Chargers and the Red Deer Bucks.
Standout Blake Symons continued his stellar two-way play, while Knoxx Miner led the team in tackles across the two games, showcasing grit and determination that set the tone for the Tigers’ weekend.
The Tigers will close out their season with back-to-back doubleheaders in Red Deer.
BEARS
Meanwhile, the U13 Bears locked down first place in the Central Alberta League standings — and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs — with a dominant 52–0 victory over the Ponoka Broncs. The Bears chose to rest many of their regular offensive starters for this matchup - giving several first-year players the opportunity to pick up more playing time and gain valuable field experience heading into both the playoffs and next season.
Quarterback Owen Reid, making his first start under centre as a Bear, was exceptional — earning Player of the Game honors after throwing three touchdown passes and adding a 37-yard rushing touchdown.
Tight end Gunnar Ramsay also had his best game of the season, hauling in his first touchdown and several key catches, while Hein Schalkwyk added his first TD as one of seven Bears to reach the end zone for the day.
With their first-place finish, the Bears earn a bye this weekend and will open their playoff run on October 25 at HJ Cody Field against the winner of the two Red Deer teams facing off in the quarterfinals. (Game time TBA.)
Thank you for following along with our weekly updates this season — and best of luck to the Bears as they begin their championship run!
