The United States clinched their fourth International Para Hockey Cup title with a 3-0 victory over Canada in Ostrava, Czech Republic. The U.S. team capitalized on a short-handed goal and a power-play goal, with Declan Farmer leading the offensive charge by scoring twice.
Coach David Hoff praised the team’s solid performance throughout the game, highlighting strong goaltending and overall teamwork. Malik Jones opened the scoring with a short-handed goal in the first period, followed by Farmer’s power-play goal in the second period and an empty-net goal near the end of the game.
Goalie Griffin LaMarre made 11 saves to secure the shutout at Ostravar Arena. The U.S. team dominated the shot count, outshooting Canada 23-11 overall and 9-0 in the second period. The Americans converted one of their four power-play opportunities, while Canada failed to capitalize on any of their five power plays.
The U.S. has now won all four IPH Cup championships since the tournament’s inception in 2022, with their previous victory over Canada in the 2024 final. Looking ahead, Canada will host the Para Cup in Dawson Creek, B.C., as their final international competition before the Milan-Cortina Paralympics in March.
Canadian forward Greg Westlake expressed optimism for the upcoming season, citing changes in coaching staff and player roster as opportunities for growth. He emphasized the team’s unity and determination to improve, looking forward to competing on home soil in November and showcasing their sport to Canadian fans.
