The Saint John Rapids are one win away from making history.
After finishing atop the East Coast Junior Lacrosse League standings during the regular season, the Rapids have carried that momentum into the championship, taking a commanding 2-0 lead over the Sackville Wolves in the ECJLL Finals. Now, with the series returning home, Saint John has its first opportunity to capture the Garnet Knight Trophy.
Game 3 of the best-of-five championship series takes place Saturday, August 1, at 7:30 p.m. at Lord Beaverbrook Rink, where the Rapids will look to complete the sweep in front of their home fans.
For many players on the Rapids roster, this game represents far more than a championship opportunity.
The heart of this team has been together since they were just 13 years old, growing through provincial programs, countless practices, and years of competition while working toward the 2022 Canada Summer Games in Niagara. Now, with much of that core entering its final season of junior eligibility at 20 years old, Saturday marks their last opportunity to win a junior championship together.
Leading the way offensively has been a dynamic attack led by Felix Harding, the ECJLL's leading scorer, alongside Chase Aldridge, who was recently named the league's Offensive Player of the Year.
At the other end of the floor, the Rapids have built their success on a relentless defensive unit anchored by captain Ben Alcorn, whose leadership and physical presence set the tone every night. Alongside him, Adam Brooks has been a steady shutdown defender, while Nate Williams has quietly become one of the league's most dependable defenders, using his anticipation, quick stick, and relentless work ethic to frustrate opposing offenses.
Together, they have helped establish the Rapids as one of the league's toughest teams to play against.
A championship would also mark a milestone for the organization, as it would be the first Garnet Knight Trophy in Saint John Rapids history.
The Sackville Wolves will undoubtedly arrive determined to extend the series, but the Rapids have an opportunity to finish the job on home floor with a championship within reach.
Fans from across New Brunswick are encouraged to pack Lord Beaverbrook Rink, wear blue, and bring the energy as the Rapids chase history.
ECJLL Championship Finals - Game 3
Saint John Rapids vs. Sackville Wolves
Saturday, August 1
7:30 p.m.
Lord Beaverbrook Rink - Saint John, N.B.
Can't make it to the rink? The game will be streamed live on the Saint John Rapids YouTube channel.
One more win. One final opportunity for a group that has grown up together. One chance to bring the Garnet Knight Trophy home to Saint John for the very first time.