The Belleville Senior Bearcats are once again champions of the Belleville New Year’s Eve Classic, defending their title with an undefeated tournament run. Powered by exceptional teamwork, standout performances, and stellar goaltending from Maddy Rowbotham, the Bearcats cruised to their second consecutive Classic title in dominant fashion.
Game One: Belleville 3, Peterborough 1
The Bearcats opened the tournament with a strong showing against Peterborough. Hannah Wilson capitalized on a power play to put Belleville on the board, followed by goals from Kellee Smith and Sam Rosborough. Assists from Smith, Hailey Robinson, and Halie Bradley highlighted the opening game.
Game Two: Belleville 4, Stone Mills 1
Saturday morning saw Belleville facing Stone Mills, where Hailey Robinson electrified the crowd with two goals just 30 seconds apart. Emma Dever added a short-handed tally, and Amanda Furmidge sealed the victory with the final goal. Assists came from Furmidge, Bradley, Robinson, Carrie Dyer-Peever (2), Steph Burridge, and Cailey Jones.
Game Three: Belleville 6, Carleton Place 0
In their second game of the day, the Bearcats unleashed an offensive onslaught against Carleton Place. Sydney Ward led the charge with a hat trick, while Robinson, Wilson, and Dever also found the back of the net. Playmakers were everywhere, with assists going to Ward, Jones (3), Robinson (2), Sarah Juby (2), and Dever. Rowbotham earned her first shutout of the tournament.
Game Four: Belleville 2, Kingston 1
Belleville’s grit shone through in Sunday morning’s tight final round-robin game against Kingston. Late third period goals from Smith and Dever secured the 2-1 victory, with assists from goalie Maddy Rowbotham, Smith, and Rachel Cole. Rowbotham’s crucial saves kept Kingston at bay.
Gold Medal Game: Belleville 5, Stone Mills 0
In a rematch against Stone Mills, the Bearcats left no doubt about their championship pedigree. Smith scored twice, with additional goals from Bradley, Ward, and Cole. Assists came from Furmidge, Dyer-Peever, Juby, Smith, Robinson, Bri Hunter, and Rebecca Broadbent. Rowbotham stood tall in net once again, earning her second shutout of the tournament.
Rowbotham Shines in Net
Maddy Rowbotham was the backbone of the Bearcats throughout the tournament, playing all five games and delivering consistent, clutch performances. Her two shutouts and key saves in critical moments were instrumental in Belleville’s success.
