The Richmond Blues Hockey Club is perhaps best known for its summer hockey camps for players aged four to 18.

But it also recently produced two spring champions in a unique three-on-three format, winning at both the Tier 1 Atom Division and the Tier 2 Novice level.

“I like three-on-three in the spring because it gives the kids a different experience (and requires the players to) learn skills faster on the smaller ice,” said TJ Sander, who oversees the program.

Sander said players on both teams were determined and committed to working hard, while sporting a no-quit attitude. “To see both teams overcome adversity was great as we beat teams in the plauyoffs we didn’t during the regular season,” he noted.

The Novices were down 7-2 in the championship game but kept improving as the final wore on to edge South Delta Dynamos 12-11.

Goalie Arjun Chehil fought the puck early but never showed frustration and settled down as the game wore on, said Sander.

“He was outstanding in the second half of the game and key saves.”

Sander lauded captain Montaro Uyeyama’s inspired two-way play in the hard-fought contest not only scoring goals and setting up others, but also showing solid backchecking.

Mitchell Loo was also a spark plug on the team all season, playing bigger then his size, said Sander, adding that Daniel Mah brought an offensive instinct to the team scoring key goals when needed.

Stefani Wallace, one of two girls on the team, was also an offensive force throughout the season, being able to dominate the play with her skating and puck control.

The Atom team was outshot 51-35 in the final but doubled up the Stingers on the scoreboard 22-11.

“It was great to see how everyone stepped up, especially with the speed in both skating and puck movement,” said Sander. “It was a fast-paced contest both ways, however everyone on our team from goaltending to defence to forwards played with a sense of purpose.”

Goalie Harmony Sander was at the top of her game, while Michael Regush led the scoring attack for the Blues while fighting off multiple checks.

“Michael played like a man among boys with superior puck protection and a natural scoring prowess,” said Sander. “But he also never forgot the defensive aspect of the game.”

Captain Daniel Rubin displayed his natural leadership skills throughout the season, said Sander.