The United States clinched their fourth International Para Hockey Cup title by defeating Canada 3-0 in Ostrava, Czech Republic. The U.S. team scored a short-handed goal and a power-play goal during the game.
Declan Farmer played a key role in the victory, scoring a power-play goal in the second period and sealing the win with an empty-net goal in the final minute of the game. American head coach David Hoff commended his team’s solid performance throughout the tournament, highlighting their strong effort on both ends of the ice.
The U.S. took the lead midway through the first period when Malik Jones intercepted a pass and scored a short-handed goal. Farmer extended the lead in the second period with a well-executed goal near the crease. Goalie Griffin LaMarre made 11 saves to secure the shutout at Ostravar Arena.
This victory marked the U.S.’s fourth consecutive title at the IPH Cup, having won every championship since the inaugural tournament in 2022. In last year’s final, the Americans also defeated Canada in Ostrava with a score of 5-3.
During the game, the U.S. dominated in shots, outshooting Canada 23-11 overall and 9-0 in the second period. The American team capitalized on one of their power-play opportunities, while Canada failed to convert on any of their five power plays.
Canada had secured a spot in the gold-medal game by defeating Italy 9-1 in the previous round. The Para Cup will be hosted by Canada in Dawson Creek, B.C., as their final international competition before the Milan-Cortina Paralympics in March.
Canadian forward Greg Westlake expressed optimism about the team’s progress, acknowledging the changes in coaching staff and players during the off-season. He emphasized the team’s unity and determination to improve throughout the upcoming season. Canada is eager to compete on home soil and showcase their sport in Dawson Creek in November.