The following was submitted by Chris Cochrane from the Simcoe County District School Board.
The Maple Ridge Ravens girls basketball team has achieved an extraordinary feat, securing the coveted gold medal at the Girls AAA Basketball OFSAA Championships this weekend.
Coached by Connor Laronde and Mike Tutty, the Ravens capped off a remarkable 36-2 season with a thrilling victory over the top-seeded Mother Teresa Spartans in a dramatic 46-42 comeback win.
After dominating their way through the tournament with victories over Michael Power, Lo-Ellen Park, Pickering and Holy Names, the Ravens entered the gold-medal game as the second seed, facing the top-ranked Mother Teresa Spartans, the number one seed in the tournament.
Despite trailing by 10 points in the fourth quarter, the Ravens mounted a relentless comeback, showcasing their grit, resilience, and team spirit. The Ravens outscored the Spartans in the final minutes, ultimately securing a hard-fought 46-42 win in a game that will be remembered as one of the most thrilling finals in recent memory.
Showing incredible heart all season long they were determined to finish strong. Coming from behind in the fourth quarter in a game of this magnitude speaks to the character and determination of these young athletes.
The Ravens' path to the gold medal included tough competition, but their consistency and skill on both ends of the floor allowed them to dominate throughout the tournament. With a remarkable 36-2 season record, the team’s performance at the OFSAA championships was a culmination of hard work, preparation and perseverance.
The Ravens’ gold-medal win marks a historic achievement for the Maple Ridge basketball program and is a testament to the growing strength of girls’ sports in the region. The championship victory is a fitting capstone to an unforgettable three year run for the Ravens, who have established themselves as one of the premier teams in Ontario basketball.
Team roster:
- Morgan Catling
- Rylie Tutty
- Julia Hamilton
- Kira Pappas
- Ashlen Macey
- Reese Burleigh
- Aniya Hitchman
- Matilda Wylie
- Azelea Duncan
- Avery Miles
- Cecily Ward-Robbins
Coaching staff:
- Coach Mike Tutty
- Coach Connor Laronde
