The London Knights celebrated their OHL Championship win with over 2,000 fans at Budweiser Gardens following their victory in Oshawa. Fans were able to see the J Ross Robertson cup being carried around the arena, take photos with the trophy, and participate in the team’s player awards ceremony. Several awards were handed out, including Sam O’Reilly as Rookie of the Year, Easton Cowan as team MVP and Playoff MVP, and Oliver Bonk as best defenceman. Head coach Dale Hunter expressed gratitude for the fan support and noted that the journey is not over yet.
Knights co-owner and General Manager Mark Hunter credited the fans as the team’s “sixth player” and emphasized their role in the championship win. Fans like Ryan Johnson, who has been following the team since 2004, expressed a deep connection to the team and the community, describing the atmosphere at the arena as like being with family. Johnson praised the coaching staff for their role in shaping the team into champions and emphasized their importance.
Long-time fan Jeff Bull echoed Johnson’s sentiments, describing the Knights as the “whole package” and praising the commitment of everyone involved, from the Hunters to the players and fans. Bull expressed confidence in the team’s chances at the Memorial Cup following their impressive playoff run, predicting a potential final matchup between the Knights and the Saginaw Spirit. London is set to face off against the Drummondville Voltigeurs, Moose Jaw Warriors, and the Saginaw Spirit in upcoming games in the Memorial Cup tournament.
The Knights’ upcoming games in the Memorial Cup will take place in Saginaw, Michigan, with their first match against the Drummondville Voltigeurs scheduled for May 25. They will then face the Moose Jaw Warriors on May 27 and the Saginaw Spirit on May 29. The team is aiming to continue their success in the tournament and add to their impressive season achievements. Fans are hopeful for a strong performance by the Knights as they compete against other league champions for the Memorial Cup title.
The strong connection between the London Knights and their fans was evident during the celebration at Budweiser Gardens, with supporters showing their appreciation for the team’s hard work and dedication. The Knights’ success in the OHL Championship has brought a sense of unity and pride to the community, with fans like Johnson and Bull highlighting the positive impact of the team on their lives. As the Knights continue their journey in the Memorial Cup, they will carry the support and enthusiasm of their loyal fan base with them.
