Ty Halaburda returned from the Nations’ capital as a champion. His Canada Black Team were crowned champions of this years’ Captial City Challenge. The tournament featured the best 66 U-17 players from across the country and the Canadian Women’s National Team. He finished the tournament with four goals in five games, including a multi-goal effort in the Gold Medal Game.
In a recent interview, Halaburda shared his experiences and what lessons he learned from the tournament.
So Ty, a very successful Capital City Challenge. Can you talk a little bit about the experience?
“It was a great experience meeting new guys and playing with new linemates. It was definitely a success as I came home with the gold. I can only take positives from that trip.
During the tournament, you mostly played on the wing. What differences have you noticed playing on the ing compared to playing center, where you play mostly with the Giants?
“I’ve played wing and center, so there wasn’t a huge transition. I just played my game. I tried to fit into that lineup as good as possible, and it worked out. We had success and were good on the power play.
“One cool opportunity was playing against the Canadian Women’s National Team. You also scored a goal against them. How cool is that opportunity to score a goal against an Olympic Silver Medalist?
“It’s an incredible feeling. (Marie-Philip) Poulin, their captain, she’s an incredible player. Their whole team is just insane. The way they use their sticks is incredible. I can not say enough good things about them. They are well structured, and it’s a great experience playing against them and see what it’s like to play against a national team.”
Gold Medal Game, you get two goals. What were your emotions like after the second goal went in?
“I just honestly wanted to get more. I helped the team capitalize on chances and pocket the win. An interesting win for sure. (Zack) Benson with a goal with like less than a second to go and then (Calum) Ritchie with the sweet O.T. winner to cap it off. It made the experience so much better. ”
What lessons can you take from the tournament and apply to the rest season as well as your WHL career?
“That’s a big confidence booster. Playing with new linemates and getting to know everyone. I can take things that they taught me and apply them to this team.”
The Giants have a special player in Halaburda who is getting better game after game. He is now on Team Canada’s radar which could lead to being a consideration down the line when international tournament selection occurs.
