For the first time since 1994, the Southern Ontario Secondary Schools Association boys hockey championships will include the Ancaster Royals. Ancaster punched its ticket to SOSSA by winning its first city championship in 14 years.

The Royals will compete in the AAA/AAAA championships, beginning March 19, hosted by Welland's Notre Dame Secondary. The event is a one-day tournament format.

Royals coach Brian Goodram said the team will stick with the game plan that has carried it to success throughout the season.

"Regardless of who we face, we will be looking to play the same hard-working, team-oriented game we have played throughout the year," Mr. Goodram said.

After weeks of battling through close, defensive games, the Royals' offence found its spark against Waterdown in the March 5 city title game. The Royals got goals from Jordan Galway, Dennis Agnew, Tyler Myers, Richard Mastroluisi and a pair from Brian Earl in a 6-2 rout of second- place Waterdown.

The Royals brought a big cheering section with them to the Dave Andreychuk Mountain Arena. Fans cheered on the team each time it took to the ice or scored a goal.

"The team was very fortunate to have such strong fan support and the players fed off of their enthusiasm," Mr. Goodram said. "The fact that there were so many family and friends there made the win that much more special and memorable for the boys."

Ancaster led 2-1 after the first period and 3-1 after the second. Leading 4-2 in the third, the Royals added two empty-net goals to put the game away.

"It was a pretty exciting game," said Ancaster High principal Bob Pratt. "The kids played amazingly."

This week the team is taking some time to relax and enjoy the March Break.

"The past couple of weeks, with the playoff grind, has been hectic for the team," Mr. Goodram said. "We will get back to work in preparation for SOSSA with practices on the Monday and Tuesday before SOSSA."

Game times and participating teams have yet to be announced for the March 19 SOSSA tournament.

One-day tournament set for March 19 in Welland