The Richland Rangers Jr. Gold hockey team arrived in Billings with a smaller bench, a roster featuring younger skaters, and precious few practices under their belts.
Coached by Westin Davies, the 14-man squad—comprising 11 returning Jr. Gold players and three cross-rostered Bantam players—swept the weekend to claim the tournament championship. Facing a mix of teams from Montana and Wyoming, the Rangers overcame a smaller bench, new younger skaters, and few practices to complete a demanding multi-game schedule.
Opening Wins in Billings
Action got underway on Friday, Oct. 30, when the Rangers matched up against the Great Falls Americans. That opening contest set an assertive tone for the weekend, resulting in a 9-1 victory.
Saturday, Oct. 31, brought a grueling double-header. The morning session featured a matchup against the Billings Bulls, ending in a 7-1 win. After just a brief couple of hours away from the rink, the team returned for an afternoon game against the Bozeman Icedogs, shutting them out 5-0.
Championship Sunday at the Coal Classic
The schedule demanded an early return to the ice on Sunday, Nov. 1, for a play-in game against the Helena Bighorns. A spot in the championship game hung in the balance. Despite some struggles during the contest, the Rangers secured a 4-1 victory to advance.
That win set up a physical championship showdown against the Yellowstone Yeti. The Rangers prevailed 4-2, capturing the Montana Coal Classic Tournament title. The strength of each member is the team.”
Upcoming Events at Ranger Rink
The weekend also brings two NA3HL Tier III Junior Hockey teams to Sidney. The Yellowstone Quake out of Wyoming face the Great Falls Americans at 7:30 p.m. on both Nov. 13 and Nov. 14. Nov. 14 marks the arena’s first Teddy Bear Toss event, organized in partnership with Richland Youth Hockey and Les Schwab. Spectators are encouraged to bring a new stuffed animal to throw onto the ice when the Yellowstone Quake score their first goal. A minimal supply of stuffed animals will be available for purchase at the rink for cash.
