The Niverville Nighthawks are off to a strong start at the 2026 Centennial Cup in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, securing two consecutive wins to begin the national championship tournament.
The team, representing Manitoba as the Niverville Nighthawks, opened their campaign on May 7, 2026, with a 5-4 overtime victory against the host team, the Summerside Western Capitals. Marlen Edwards scored the game-winning goal just 14 seconds into the extra period. The momentum continued on May 9, when the Nighthawks defeated the Thunder Bay North Stars 7-2. Captain Adam Vigfusson led the effort in the second win, scoring twice and earning player of the game honours.
The success follows a standout season for the organization, which finished with a 51-6-1 record. Head coach Dwight Hirst, who was named the league coach of the year, guided the group to the top of the standings. Additionally, goaltender Austin Dubinsky was recognized as the Canadian Junior Hockey League Goaltender of the Year on May 12, 2026, for his performance during the regular season and playoffs.
The Centennial Cup features 10 teams and runs until May 17, 2026, at Credit Union Place. Nearly 100 fans from Niverville have travelled to the tournament to support the team, while residents remaining in Manitoba have been gathering for watch parties held at Smitty’s in Niverville.
