The 43rd Veterans Memorial Cup hockey tournament, one of Manitoba’s longest-running U13 events, returned to Stonewall this past weekend, drawing 18 teams competing across three divisions.
The Stonewall Junior Jets A1 team captured silver medals at a recent tournament, finishing runner-up after a 5–2 loss to TSN in the final. The Jr. Jets advanced with wins over the Seven Oaks Raiders (7–5), Rat River Saints (11–4), Winkler Flyers (9–1) and Transcona Regents (5–2). Pictured, left to right, back row: John Favreau (assistant coach), Shaun Dalgliesh (head coach), Byron Scrivens (assistant coach) and Matt Wutzke (assistant coach). Middle row: Mason Truthwaite, Dane Fortin, Beckett Buchko, Connor Van Hussen, Jack West, Nash Scrivens and Kolson Jira. Front row: Tucker Wutzke, Colton Harrisko, Ethan Favreau, Camden Sowa, Jackson Oatway and Max Slobodzian
Opening ceremonies were held Saturday afternoon at the Veterans Memorial Sports Complex, where eight teams lined up on the ice to officially launch the tournament. Bagpiper Alexander McDonald led the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52 Colour Party and special guests to centre ice, followed by the École Stonewall Centennial Grade 7/8 Choir, directed by Vhana Moldowan, performing O Canada.
Opening ceremonies emcee Dusty Moore, a longtime coach and parent with the Stonewall Minor Hockey Association (SMHA), welcomed teams, families and guests, noting the tournament’s deep roots in both hockey and community.
Moore said the Veterans Memorial Cup honours the spirit of community and the legacy of those who have contributed to local sport, while recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of Armed Forces veterans in local communities and around the world.
Reflecting on hockey legacy, Moore shared a personal story about a recent family trip to Edmonton, where he and his son visited a hockey card shop and found a card of Chuck Lefley. Lefley, born in Grosse Isle, played 10 seasons in the NHL and won two Stanley Cups. Moore said his family was saddened to later learn of Lefley’s passing and took a moment to acknowledge his lasting significance to the region’s hockey history.
“On behalf of SMHA, thank you to our players, coaches, officials, volunteers, families, fans and veterans for being here. It’s a pleasure to see this rink full of energy, excitement, and love for the game of hockey,” Moore said.
He also highlighted the extensive volunteer effort behind the tournament.
“To the many volunteers involved in Stonewall Minor Hockey — whether you are a board member, coach, manager, member of the tournament committee or the many parents that have held volunteer shifts during the tournament — you do a thankless job, but without you none of this is possible,” he said.
Addressing the U13 athletes directly, Moore spoke about the broader lessons hockey provides.
“To our U13 athletes, many of you think of hockey as early practices, hard work, learning to shoot, pass and many other skills of the game. While those are the technical fundamentals, hockey is so much more than that,” he said.
“Supporting your teammates, your commitment, dedication and giving your best every time you step on the ice are the skills you are learning now and are not only building the foundation of your hockey journey, but shaping who you are becoming as a person.”
“Many of the attributes that make you a great player and teammate on the ice will also help you succeed in your future endeavours outside of hockey. We hope this weekend is an important part of your story.”
Town of Stonewall Mayor Sandra Smith commended the volunteers who work tirelessly to host the tournament and acknowledged the 2015–2016 Stonewall Jets team, who were guests of honour at the ceremony. RM of Rockwood Reeve Wes Taplin echoed the mayor’s remarks and encouraged players and fans to enjoy the experience and create lasting memories. Stonewall Legion Branch 52 president Ken Power thanked volunteers and wished teams a successful weekend.
Moore noted the U13 tournament is about more than competition.
“We are proud to dedicate this tournament in recognition of the strong hockey legacy here in Stonewall, and in particular, to celebrate a memorable moment in our community’s hockey history,” he said.
In 2016, the Stonewall Jets captured their first Manitoba Major Junior Hockey League championship on home ice, sweeping the Pembina Valley Twisters in the finals and completing an 11-game playoff winning streak.
“That championship wasn’t just about goals and wins — it was about teamwork, perseverance, and believing in one another when it mattered most,” Moore said. “Those are the same values we hope to instill in our young players today.”
“When you are older you won’t remember the medals, your stats, or the scores of the games, but you will remember the fun you had playing in tournaments, staying in hotels, playing mini-sticks and many of the other great things that come with hockey. We hope that this year’s Vets Cup will be one of those fond memories for you.”
Moore then introduced the guests of honour — the 2015–2016 Stonewall Jets — and presented the team with a commemorative banner to be hung in the arena and at The 19th Hole Golf Simulator Lounge in Stonewall.
Former Jets head coach Brock Couch thanked SMHA on behalf of the Jets alumni for recognizing the team on the 10-year anniversary of its championship season.
Couch credited then-president Darrell Faulkner and general manager Ralph Nespor for assembling a roster they believed was built for success.
“In my 30 years of playing hockey and 10 years of coaching, I can’t recall anyone more dedicated and passionate about a team than those two,” Couch said, also acknowledging the executive, coaching staff, athletic therapist and equipment manager.
“No local hockey program can be successful without volunteers,” he said.
Couch reflected on the championship season, noting the Jets underachieved for much of the regular season before finding their stride late, winning 12 of their final 15 league games.
After winning Game 1 of the opening playoff round and then losing three straight, the Jets forced a Game 7 at home, where the community rallied behind them. The team went on to win 11 straight playoff games, including the league title.
“What made it even sweeter was winning at home in front of our home crowd — a memory that will last forever,” Couch said.
He also highlighted the character of the players, noting many have gone on to build careers, run businesses and raise families.
“I feel so lucky to have coached all of you, and these gentlemen are a true example of how hockey sets young boys and girls up for success in life beyond the arena,” he said.
Couch closed by wishing all teams a strong tournament weekend.
“Good luck to all teams this weekend — work hard, listen to your coaches and win or lose … have fun.”
On behalf of SMHA, Moore also presented a cheque for $2,000 to Shelley Derksen of the Military Family Resource Centre at CFB Winnipeg. Tournament organizers said supporting those who serve is a key part of the event’s legacy, noting the centre plays a vital role in assisting military families through its programs and services.various programs and services.
