On the bright evening of August 29, 2025, the ball hockey rink at BHi Brantford swelled with excitement as the Brantford Royals – Boyd faced off against the Friday Knights. This was no ordinary game—it was the much-anticipated semifinals, and the crowd was electric with anticipation.
The Royals started the game with a bang, with Heather Barkman netting an even-strength goal just over six minutes into the first period, assisted by the quick-thinking James Huzul. This goal set the tone for the rest of the match, with the Royals firmly in control of the game’s narrative.
The second period saw the Royals’ star player, Phinn Sinden, increase their lead with a goal just 16 seconds in, assisted by Corey Bennett. This wasn’t enough for Sinden, though. He came back in the third period to score another even-strength goal, this time with an assist from Kate Walgraeve.
The Friday Knights, on the other hand, found themselves on the backfoot for most of the game. The team’s player, Dustin VanEvery, was penalized twice—once for interference in the first period and again for slashing in the second. Max Bennett of the Royals also found himself in the penalty box in the second period for slashing.
Despite the Knights’ valiant efforts, the Royals dominated the game, outshooting them 20 to 12. The final whistle saw the Royals heading to the finals on a wave of victory, leaving the Knights to regroup and come back stronger next season.
Our stars of the game are Heather Barkman, Phinn Sinden, and James Huzul, who put up an exceptional performance and led the Royals to victory. Stay tuned for more exciting ball hockey action in the finals!