St. Albert's own Baron Bruinsma has returned home a champion after taking part in one of the most prestigious events in the realm of youth hockey.
The talented goalie, born in 2011, recently won gold at the World Youth Hockey Championship hosted by Play Hockey in Prague, Czech Republic.
Bruinsma was the only goalie for team West Can Prime in the 2011 age group, facing off against elite, international competition. The championship brought together the top players from across the globe, with teams from Russia, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Canada, and the USA. It was an invite-only event, featuring the crème de la crème of the youth hockey world.
The young St. Albert netminder displayed exceptional skill and composure throughout the tournament. His team went undefeated in all seven games, with Bruinsma recording two shutout wins and an impressive overtime shootout win. In the championship game, Bruinsma's solid performance in net helped secure a decisive 6-2 victory for his team.
"I spent the winter season being the only goalie for my Hockey Super League team, allowing me to get significant ice time against very competitive teams," Bruinsma said when asked about his preparation for the tournament. The Hockey Super League is a competitive league in which Bruinsma has been participating for the past three years.
When asked about the highlights of the tournament, Bruinsma didn't hesitate to highlight the new experiences he gained in Europe.
"Winning the tournament, getting to see the lifestyle in Prague, and making new friends from around the world," he said.
Bruinsma's phenomenal performance at the event did not go unnoticed. The young goalie was bestowed with the honour of 'Top Tournament Goalie' in the 2011 age category, a testament to his exceptional skill and competitive spirit.
Bruinsma is no stranger to elite-level competition. In 2022, he was also the goalie for Team Brick Alberta. He also recently returned from Toronto, where he played for Team Modano in the prestigious invite-only Hockey Hall of Fame Future Legends Tournament.
Representing Canada on the international stage is a matter of immense pride for any athlete and even at his young age, Bruinsma appreciates the experience he had.
"I was proud to show as a whole team what great hockey talent Canada has," he said.
Bruinsma's parents are also proud of their young athlete.
“As a parent it is always about our kids finding joy in what they do,” said Keith Bruinsma, the young golaie's father.
“Seeing Baron’s grit and determination while always having fun is more than we can ask for."
