18 February 2025
The ADF Storm Ice Hockey team came agonisingly close to capturing the prestigious Challenge Cup in Newcastle, but ultimately fell short in the final game.
The Storm started strong, winning or drawing all their games in the C-division competition, and progressed to the semi-finals.
In a gruelling match against Laser Beams that went into overtime, Storm player Flight Lieutenant Andrew Miller scored the winning goal in a dramatic penalty shootout.
The grand final was a hard-fought battle against the Sydney Kodiaks, and despite a herculean effort from the Storm, they went down 3-0.
Storm winger Pilot Officer Justin Cudmore said the tournament was a great way to bring together ADF players from across Australia.
“This is my fourth year participating in the tournament and the quality of hockey within the ADF has continued to grow each year,” Pilot Officer Cudmore said.
The ADF Strike team also had a robust showing in the B-division tournament, but ultimately didn’t progress forward after losing to the Adelaide Old Dogs.
Strike defenceman Lieutenant Colonel Bryan Ouellet said participating in the civilian competition was an opportunity to push ADF players to their limit.
“Both teams found new ways to conquer adversities during, what is important to state, a complicated sport to learn and perform at any level,” Lieutenant Colonel Ouellet said.
The atmosphere and encouragement from both players and coaching staff provided excellent support and transferred to how Storm played on the ice, Flight Lieutenant Miller said.
“The team consisted of players from all over Australia, but we quickly meshed. I was really proud of the team cohesion and work ethic of everyone,” he said.
“The Challenge Cup is always a great tournament to compete in and this year ADF Storm made it to the grand final, our best result yet.”
Strike player Lieutenant Josh Gerlan, said it was a great week of tough competition.
“It’s always fun to play the sport you love and also represent the ADF,” he said.
