Over the November 6th to 9th weekend, 34 U18 AAA hockey programs converged in Sudbury, Ontario for the 45th annual Big Nickel Hockey Tournament, one of the most prestigious events on the U18 calendar. Representing the GNU18HL, the Soo U18 Greyhounds competed through a tough slate of games, highlighted by a standout performance from Espen Escasa, who recorded eight points across the tournament.
The Greyhounds opened play on Thursday evening against the Ajax Pickering Raiders. Escasa wasted no time making an impact, scoring twice—including a powerplay goal and an unassisted marker late in the first period—but the Hounds ultimately dropped a 4–2 decision. Goaltender Sebastien Brassard turned aside several key chances, keeping the game within reach.
In Friday’s first matchup against Okanagan Hockey Ontario, the Greyhounds found their stride. Escasa factored into all three Soo goals, setting up Nathan Dupuis in the second and assisting on Hunter Thorkilson’s third-period tally before adding a powerplay goal of his own. The Greyhounds’ effort, backed by strong goaltending from Gavin Zuccato, earned them a solid win to even their record.
Later that evening, the Hounds battled the Windsor Spitfires in a thrilling contest. After trailing early, the Soo stormed back with goals from Nico Bossio, Jackson Thornton, Finlay Carlson, and another Escasa powerplay marker. Despite the comeback effort, Windsor claimed the 6–5 overtime win, but Escasa’s offensive presence once again stood out with multiple points.
In their final round robin game on Saturday against the Upper Canada Cyclones, the Greyhounds ran into penalty trouble as Upper Canada capitalized on several powerplay chances to secure the win. The Soo’s scoring came from Andrew Aikens and Dreyon Boissoneau, with Escasa adding another assist to cap off an impressive personal weekend.
When the ice settled in Sudbury, Espen Escasa finished the tournament with eight points (4G, 4A)—a team-leading performance that showcased his skill and leadership at both ends of the rink.
The Soo U18 Greyhounds will now return home to prepare for a midweek matchup against the Soo U16 Greyhounds on Wednesday at the John Rhodes Community Centre, with puck drop scheduled for 8:00 p.m.
