A Weekend of Ice and Adventure
The recent hockey tournament in Las Vegas gave two local standouts, Kane and Kirby, a chance to test their skills against a higher level of competition. Both were members of the Rattlesnakes squad that faced off against several elite teams in the desert city.
Kane, who plays defense, was solid throughout the event and logged key minutes in every game. In their quarterfinal match, he was named Player of the Game for the Rattlesnakes even though the team fell short. Kirby, meanwhile, starred in a 6‑1 victory over the 2015 Illinois Selects and received the same Player of the Game honor for his performance.
The experience extended beyond the rink. After games were held in the practice facility of the NHL’s Las Vegas Golden Knights, the girls toured the Las Vegas Strip, did some shopping, and took a day trip to the Grand Canyon. Kirby highlighted the Eagle Rock Formation at the Eagle Point Lookout, noting how the scenery added a memorable backdrop to their adventure.
Reflecting on the weekend, Kane said he felt happy and excited, emphasizing that playing in the Golden Knights’ facility gave them a professional atmosphere. Kirby added that being recognized as Player of the Game was an honor that underscored the growth they experienced both on and off the ice.
The tournament proved to be more than just a series of matches; it blended competitive sport with tourism, giving Kane and Kirby a unique opportunity to develop their games while discovering new parts of the American Southwest.