Following a stellar show at the Western Hockey League playoffs, the Kelowna Rockets are gearing up for the ultimate win at the 2015 Memorial Cup in Quebec City on May 22nd.
Madison Bowey hoists the Ed Chynoweth Cup. (Photo Credit: Eric Fornwald.)
Beginning on Friday, the Rockets will battle it out against the Quebec Remparts, and according to head coach Dan Lambert, the guys are confident and prepared heading into this year’s championship.
“We’ve been watching lots of videos and we know enough about the other teams,” added Lambert.
The Rockets will have the chance to take a well-deserved rest over the next few days before leaving for Quebec City. After playing in their first round-robin series against the Remparts, the Rockets will then take on the Rimouski Oceanic on Monday, May 25th, followed by a showdown against the Oshawa Generals on Tuesday, May 26th.
Rockets take on the Brandon Wheat Kings. (Photo Credit: KelownaNow.com.)
Despite Oshawa’s good defence, the Rockets have practiced hard and they’re ready to bring their ‘A’ game to the Quebec rink.
“It’s very exciting, it’s one of the biggest tournaments in the world and the whole hockey world is watching us,” commented centre player Leon Draisaitl. “It’ll be a little different playing against these teams, but after a while we’ll settle into it.”
According to Rockets captain and defence player, Madison Bowey, he’s expecting the team will be a little nervous during their first game on Friday, but he’s sure the team will settle in fast as adrenaline and excitement kicks in.
Photo Credit: Canadian Hockey League
“We’re feeling pretty confident, I’m definitely excited and it’s going to test our team to see how good we are, considering we’re going for a national title,” said Bowey. “I know the guys are really looking forward to it as they get ready for Friday. This championship is the toughest trophy to win in hockey, so I think for us, staying focused is the key and making sure we’re prepared to do anything to win that cup.”
This championship will be the Rockets' first stab at the Memorial Cup since 2004. The first three Rockets games will begin at 4:30 p.m. Pacific time.
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