(Photo Credit: Golf Manitoba) Zostrianos Giordani-Gross, a young golfing talent from Brandon, Manitoba, has claimed victory in the Junior Boys Division at the 2024 Maple Leaf Junior Golf Tour (MJT) National Championship, held at Orange Lake Golf Resort in Kissimmee, Florida. The tournament brought out the best in Giordani-Gross, showcasing his skill, mental toughness, and years of dedication to the sport. Early Beginnings in Golf Giordani-Gross first swung a club as a child, but it wasn’t until age 11, playing at the Souris and Glenwood Community golf course, that he became captivated by the game. By 12, he began playing competitive tournaments on Gary Poole’s Westman Junior Golf Tour, marking the start of a promising journey in the sport. Now a college golfer, he spends around 8 hours a day practicing, often followed by a gym session, and in the past year has played approximately 90 rounds of golf. Influences and Training Inspired by Rory McIlroy, Giordani-Gross has worked to build a compact, powerful swing, similar to the one that has defined his favorite player. Growing up, he practiced extensively at Shilo Country Club and Mulligan’s driving range, clocking in around 4 hours daily. Now, even in winter, he keeps his game sharp with indoor sessions, spending nearly 2.5 hours each morning at Evo Golf before school. His dedication to constant improvement includes a focus on making putts inside 10 feet and increasing his driver distance, key areas that contributed to his recent success. Winning Mindset and Strategy Giordani-Gross attributes much of his success to his mental strength, emphasizing the importance of staying calm, consistent, and trusting his game plan. “I try to be my biggest fan during rounds, and it's rare to see me get frustrated,” he said. This self-discipline proved crucial during the championship, as he followed a well-defined strategy of aiming for the center of the green and avoiding short-sided misses. With small greens at Orange Lake’s Legends course, this approach allowed him to control his scores, turning potential bogeys into pars by focusing on placement and staying within his comfort zone. Reflecting on a Memorable Win Reflecting on his win, Giordani-Gross expressed his excitement and gratitude. “I’ve been competing in MJT tournaments for many years, and to win the national championship means a lot. It’s a huge confidence boost and a stepping stone in my amateur career.” Sticking to his strategy over three days, he avoided the temptation to become overly aggressive, instead trusting his swing and focusing on mental composure—qualities he believes are essential for future success. Giordani-Gross finished the 54 hole event at 2-under par 214, one stroke better than Austin Krahn of British Columbia. Looking Ahead While his game shows few weaknesses, Giordani-Gross remains committed to refining his putting and increasing his driving distance, understanding that these skills will be vital as he continues his journey in competitive golf. This championship win has solidified his standing as one of Canada’s rising stars, and the Brandon community looks forward to his bright future in the sport. With a dedication to both mental and physical preparation, Zostrianos Giordani-Gross has demonstrated that he has the determination and talent to excel at the next level. His MJT National Championship victory is a testament to years of hard work and a strong mental game—qualities that make him a role model for young athletes in Canada. Congratulations to Zostrianos on this remarkable achievement!

November 6th, 2024 – The Brandon Wheat Kings are excited to announce that Nickelodeon Night in support of the Children’s Miracle Network, presented by RE/MAX, will take place on November 16, 2024. This year, fans can look forward to a family-friendly evening filled with excitement, including exclusive PAW Patrol-themed jerseys worn by Wheat Kings players. All proceeds raised through various activities during the game will go directly to the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba, helping support essential services for children and families in need. The Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba funds essential research, equipment, and programs to improve the health and well-being of children across Manitoba. Since its inception in 1971, the Foundation has raised millions to support pediatric care, ensuring young patients and their families receive the best care possible. Every dollar raised during the Wheat Kings’ Nickelodeon Night will contribute directly to these critical efforts, helping to make a real difference for Manitoba’s children. "We couldn’t be more excited to bring Nickelodeon Night to the Keystone Centre and see the energy that PAW Patrol brings to our fans,” said Mike Filipchuk, Vice President of Business Operations. “The themed jerseys and our partnership with Nickelodeon and RE/MAX make this a unique experience, and knowing that it benefits the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba makes it even more special. It’s a night where families can come together, have fun, and make a difference.” As part of this special event, fans in attendance will have opportunities to participate in themed activities, enjoy giveaways, and support an important cause. Jared Jacobson, Owner and Governor of the Wheat Kings, expressed gratitude to the community, saying, "This year, the support from our fans, sponsors, and the community has been incredible, and we’re so proud to support the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba. It’s events like these that highlight the power of hockey to bring people together and create a positive impact.” The first 1,000 fans in attendance will receive a special RE/MAX mini stick, adding to the excitement for families and hockey fans alike. Additionally, Nickelodeon will bring back the online scratch card platform with incredible prizes, including a trip for four to Nickelodeon’s Punta Cana resort (airfare included), two season tickets for the 2025-26 season, and $1,000 in gift cards. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early for this memorable night and join in the fun while supporting a meaningful cause. For more information, visit https://chl.ca/whl-wheatkings/

The Gladstone Lakers, Miniota/Elkhorn C-Hawks, Pilot Mound Pilots, and Wawanesa Jets all requested 1-year leaves of absence from the Tiger Hills Hockey League, leaving the senior hockey league with 12-teams for the 2024/25 season. The league will continued to be split into 2 divisions with each team playing their divisional foes twice, while playing everyone in the other division once. Games start this Friday the 25th with Boissevain hosting Virden and Carberry travelling to MacGregor. The complete schedule can be found here.

Manitoba cyclist Grant Hamilton headed to Tour de France for leukemia charity ride BRANDON, Man. — Manitoba cyclist Grant Hamilton will ride the entire Tour de France route next year, raising money to Cure Leukemia. Hamilton announced today that he has been selected as one of 25 amateur cyclists from around the world for Tour 21, the only charity ride officially affiliated with the Tour de France. The fully supported ride, in France, will follow the same route and distance as the professional race, exactly one week earlier. Hamilton is the only Canadian rider in this year’s charity ride, and only the second one ever. “The Tour de France is the toughest challenge in pro sports — and thankfully I don’t have to race it, just ride it. Our goal through this challenge is to finish, while raising money that will help cure leukemia,” Hamilton said. “The ride is daunting, and I have months of gruelling training ahead, but what keeps me motivated is knowing that we will be funding clinical trials to help beat blood cancer.” After being hit by a car while biking two years ago, Hamilton turned to cycling advocacy, including the formation of Bike Brandon, a seat on the city’s Vision Zero committee, and securing federally funds to reearch active transportation and improved public spaces in Brandon. “Sports build community and cycling is a great example of that, whether you’re biking up the Alps or down the street to A&L,” Hamilton said. “We’re bringing that same community spirit to bear on leukemia fundraising.” Hamilton is covering the significant entrance fee and other costs of the ride out of pocket and has partnered with A&L Cycle in Brandon, as well as Trek Bikes, to assist with gear and training expenses. “We knew right away that we’d be thrilled to support Grant’s ride. He’ll be spending a lot of time on the bike over the next few months, and we’ll be there for every kilometre,” said A&L Cycle co-owner Cam Wirch. “One of the most rewarding parts of being a local business is lending a helping hand or wrench for the community. That’s part of our DNA at A&L and we found the same with Trek Bikes.” The ride is for an important cause: to Cure Leukemia. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, it is estimated that 6,600 Canadians will be diagnosed with leukemia this year and 3,200 Canadians will die. “As a team, we are riding to raise £1 million that will go to funding clinical trials,” Hamilton said. “Those will have a direct and immediate impact on proving better treatments and getting us closer to a cure. My personal goal is to raise more than $55,000.” Anyone around the world can donate to Cure Leukemia in support of Hamilton’s ride. In Canada, a partnership with the Charities Aid Foundation ensures donors qualify for a tax receipt. Give online at CAFcanada.ca or directly at https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/30925. Please make sure to select “Cure Leukemia” as the fund, and to dedicate your donation in honour of Grant Hamilton, to make sure your gift is properly credited. “The only thing I ask of donors is that you let me know!” Hamilton said. “The online platform doesn’t share your info with me, so when you drop me a line, I’ll be able to thank you properly for your support.” Hamilton is easy to find on social media or can be contacted by email at hamilton.grant@gmail.com. The 2025 Tour de France and Tour 21 charity ride to Cure Leukemia start in about nine months.  

(Photo by: Scramble Studio) Clarke Caswell, a product of the Brandon Wheat Kings U18 AAA program, has been named the captain of the Swift Current Broncos for the upcoming WHL season. The 2006-born forward, known for his high hockey IQ and leadership skills, has earned this honor after demonstrating a strong work ethic and impressive playmaking abilities during his time with the Broncos. Caswell, originally selected 6th overall in the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft, has steadily developed into a key player for Swift Current, both on and off the ice.  This past summer, he was selected by the Seattle Kraken in the 5th round, 141st overall of the NHL Entry Draft. In the 2024-25 season, Caswell will look to lead by example, continuing to build on his offensive prowess and playmaking vision. His appointment as captain reflects not only his talent but his capacity to inspire younger teammates in the Broncos’ efforts. Caswell's journey from the Wheat Kings to the Broncos highlights the developmental focus of the WHL, particularly in producing top-tier leadership and skill in young players. With his new role, expectations are high for Caswell to be a central figure in Swift Current’s push for playoff contention. 'C' is for Clarke! The @SCBroncos have named @SeattleKraken prospect Clarke Caswell the 35th captain in franchise history. 📝 | https://t.co/4j8b1atQz0 pic.twitter.com/gkXdQSxRRt — The WHL (@TheWHL) September 24, 2024