For the first time in franchise history, the Medicine Hat Cubs are champions of the Heritage Junior Hockey League (HJHL). On Saturday night at Servus Arena in Red Deer, the Cubs completed a decisive three‑game sweep of the regular‑season champion Red Deer Vipers with a 5–2 victory.
This historic win marks the Cubs’ first HJHL title since joining the league in 2001–02, and their first Junior B championship in 25 years—dating back to their 2001 International Junior Hockey League (IJHL) crown.
Game 3: Cubs 5, Vipers 2
Facing elimination on home ice, the Vipers pushed for an early surge, but the Cubs’ structure, speed, and special teams ultimately dictated the pace.
Game Highlights
- First Period: A tight opening frame saw the Cubs use their trademark speed through the neutral zone to pressure Red Deer’s defence.
- Veteran Leadership: Overagers Kyle Woolridge, Austin Derzaph, Keynan Cairns, and Ethan Burgeson delivered in their final HJHL appearance, ensuring they ended their junior careers as champions.
- The Clincher: Holding a 4–2 lead late in the third, the Cubs buried an empty net insurance marker to secure the 5–2 win and spark a celebration 24 years in the making.
- Goaltending Excellence: League Top Goaltender Marlo DeRosa remained rock‑solid throughout the series, turning aside Red Deer’s final push with calm, steady play.
Series at a Glance
The Cubs’ championship run showcased depth scoring, relentless forechecking, and a defensive structure that neutralized the league’s top seed.
| Game | Date | Location | Result | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mar 14 | Red Deer | 6–2 Cubs | Handed Red Deer their first home loss of the playoffs. |
| 2 | Mar 15 | Medicine Hat | 7–4 Cubs | Six different Cubs scored in a high‑powered win. |
| 3 | Mar 21 | Red Deer | 5–2 Cubs | Clinched the franchise’s first HJHL Championship. |
The Road to History
Head coach Trent Derzaph praised his team’s “all‑in” mentality, crediting the championship to a gritty and unified playoff effort. The Cubs reached the league final after a hard‑fought five‑game battle with the Okotoks Bisons, followed by a commanding sweep of the Cochrane Generals in the South Final.
According to the official HJHL News, this championship caps a milestone season in which the Cubs also secured their first Gary Wournell South Division title. Captain and league MVP Kyle Woolridge—also the playoff scoring leader—lifted the trophy in front of a loud contingent of travelling Cubs supporters.
