Jan 16, 2026 | Karen Gibb | 97 views
U13 Lakers Shine at Paradise Puck Series Tournament
The Huron Perth Lakers AAA U13 teams traded snowbanks for palm trees as they proudly represented the Lakers, Southwestern Ontario, and Canada at the Paradise Puck Series in Fort Lauderdale, Florida over the Christmas Holidays. And while the setting was sunny, the competition was anything but laid-back.
The HPL U13 kicked off their New Year at 1:00 p.m. on January 1st against New York State’s PAL Jr. Islanders, skating away with a strong 6–4 win. They kept the momentum rolling later that afternoon, collecting win number two against the Long Island Gulls.
Friday, January 2nd, presented a challenge, as the Lakers dropped a tough 6–4 loss to the highly ranked (top 10 USA) Dallas Stars Elite, but the team didn’t let that loss melt their confidence.
Saturday was a statement day. The U13s returned to the ice with purpose, edging the PAL Islanders 3–2 in the quarter finals before securing a 4–2 win over the South Shore Kings in the semis. Those victories earned the Lakers a place in Sunday’s championship final.
In the gold-medal game on January 4th, the U13 Lakers faced the Dallas Stars Elite again. In an electrifying matchup that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Lakers narrowly fell 5–4 but not before taking some serious sparkle out of the Stars in a game that showcased grit, skill, and heart.
The u13s were excited to be joined by the HPL u12 team who also played in the Gold metal game for their division. Both teams proudly represented Huron Perth Lakers on the international stage, and they are to be congratulated on their outstanding performances at the Paradise Puck Series. From clutch goals, outstanding goaltending, great teamwork, and unforgettable moments, these young athletes represented the Lakers with pride, passion, and class both on and off the ice.
Families were treated to great hockey and also enjoyed making memories not only in the rink but also at the beach, swimming, fishing, and golfing.
Sun, surf, and some unforgettable hockey — well done, Lakers! 🏒🌴