Bantam Minor 'AA' claims another tourney victory

The Amherst Bantam Minor "AA" team won the Tonawanda Lighting Tournament. It was the team's second straight tournament victory. Members of the team, pictured from left, are: first row - Nick Metcalf, Christian Curatolo, Benny Ferro, Patrick Griffin, Adam Hepp, T. J. Brodzik, Tommy Styn, John Richmond, Zach Lesswing; second row - Zach Thomas, Joey Todaro, Alex DiDonato; third row - head coach John DiDonato, assistant coach Mark Berke, Bobby Finley, Derek Aichinger, Michael Nowicki, Matt Berke, Joey Kersten and assistant coach Joe Todaro.

Coach John DiDonato's Amherst Bantam Minor "AA" squad finished their season off in style with back-to-back tournament victories.

After winning the Southtown March Classic tournament the previous weekend, the Knights rolled into The Tonawanda Lighting Tournament and came out as champions.

On Sunday, the Knights won their gold medals with a 2-1 victory over the host Tonawanda team.

The team showed off their defensive strength with goalies T.J. Brodzik and Thomas Styn splitting time in nets.

Offense was provided by goals from Derek Aichinger (Michael Nowicki) and Zach Thomas (Nick Metcalf).

Amherst's journey to qualify for the medal game began with a 2-2 tie against the Buffalo Bisons. With one minute left in the game and down by one, Amherst pulled their goalie and defenseman Christian Curatolo was sent in as the six attacker and subsequently scored the tying goal with 24 seconds remaining.

Game two of the tournament saw the Knights roll over the Tonawanda Lighting, 4-1.

Goalie T. J. Brodzik came within 30 seconds of a shutout. Goals came from Matt Berke (Zach Lesswing) John Richmond (Joe Kersten), Aichenger (Bobby Finley) and Nowicki.

In game three, Amherst beat the Buffalo Hornets, 5-1.

Goalie Tommy Styn earned the victory. Adam Hepp, Alex DiDonato and Zach Lesswing scored goals. Derek Aichinger netted two goals within 11 seconds.

The Knights' final 10 game record is 7-1-2. They started the season 0-10.