The Brooks Bandits secured the 2025-26 Rogers BCHL Cup title, triumphing over the Nanaimo Clippers in a thrilling 4-3 overtime victory during Game 5 of the Championship Series. This marks the Bandits’ second consecutive championship win.
Key Moments in the Championship Game
Jack Good emerged as the game’s hero, scoring the decisive goal just 5:10 into overtime. This marked his second goal of the postseason and his first in the finals, following a crucial pass from teammate Mathis Dufour. Good expressed his emotions, stating, “We worked so hard… It feels so good. I’m so happy to get it done with these guys.”
The game started with an early advantage for the Nanaimo Clippers. They took a 2-0 lead in the first period, courtesy of goals from Patrick Fortune and Drew Roelofs. However, the Bandits responded powerfully; Jack Rosensteel and Liam Fitzpatrick each scored in the second period, leveling the game.
Turning Points
Early in the third period, Frantisek Albrecht put the Bandits ahead. Yet, the Clippers fought back, with Samuel Boisvert netting a goal in the final minute to push the game into overtime. Good’s quick strike ultimately sealed the championship.
Outstanding Player Recognition
Brooks goalie Zach Zahara received the Jeff Tambellini Trophy as the Most Valuable Player of the postseason. Over 21 playoff games, Zahara achieved a record of 16 wins, 3 losses, and 2 overtime losses, with a remarkable goals-against average of 1.95 and a .928 save percentage.
Team Resilience
Zahara praised his team’s perseverance, stating, “We’re the most resilient team ever… Our group went through so much throughout the playoffs and the whole season.” Despite a tough start, where they lost Game 1 at home, the Bandits rallied back, winning four consecutive overtime games to clinch the series.
Playoff Journey
The Bandits had an impressive playoff run:
- Swept the Spruce Grove Saints in the first round (4 games)
- Defeated the Sherwood Park Crusaders in the second round (7 games)
- Won against the Cranbrook Bucks in the Interior Conference Finals (5 games)
Reflecting on their journey, team captain Dante Siciliano noted the strong bond formed among teammates, calling them “brothers for life and champions for life.”
