The Freeburg-Waterloo Raging Bulldogs downed Triad in two straight games to capture the Mississippi Valley Club Hockey Association Varsity 1A championship this week. 

Following a 5-1 victory Monday night, the Raging Bulldogs survived a tough game two Tuesday night in East Alton with a thrilling 3-2 win. 

In Monday’s win, Conner Blair notched a goal and assisted on three others. Ryder Neff added a goal and two assists. Others scoring goals for Freeburg-Waterloo were Cohin Reynolds, Christopher Lucinski and Layne Wilkens. 

Playing well between the pipes was goaltender Logan Sherman, who made 20 saves. 

Tuesday’s match was much more intense, as Triad was fighting for its season. A total of 15 penalties were called in the contest – nine of them going against the Raging Bulldogs.

Following a scoreless first period, Wilkens netted two power play goals on assists from Neff. Blair scored in the third period on another assist from Neff, and the lead was 3-1. Triad scored a goal a short time later, but Freeburg-Waterloo was able to hold on for the trophy.

Sherman made 32 saves for the Raging Bulldogs.

The MVCHA evaluates the rosters of each team and the levels of travel hockey amongst players to determine the 2A and 1A teams prior to each season. So, it’s not a guarantee Freeburg-Waterloo will be bumped up to 2A for the 2024-25 campaign despite going 15-2 against 1A teams this season.

Columbia won the 1A title last season, moving up to 2A for the 2023-24 campaign. 

The 2A finals this season involved hockey powerhouses Edwardsville and O’Fallon, with Edwardsville winning in two games.

For photos from Tuesday’s title winning game, click here.