Winnipeg, MB. – The Brandon Wheat Kings have announced plans to recognize this year’s Provincial Midget Champion Winnipeg Thrashers before Monday night’s Western Hockey League Playoff game at the MTS Centre.

After winning the Manitoba AAA Midget League title last month against the Southwest Cougars, the Thrashers beat Prince Albert 4-1 Sunday to capture the West Regional Title in Moose Jaw.

Wheat Kings’ prospect Dylan Kuczek (pictured above), Morgan Winchar, Corey Petrash and Regan Stire scored for the Thrashers, who will now advance to the National Championships later this month in St. John’s Newfoundland.

“You know what, everybody just needed to settle into the game — the first 10 minutes were a little bit slow but the guys knew what was at stake and emotions were running high for a little bit,” Thrashers head coach Dan Eliasson told the Winnipeg Sun on Sunday night. “There were feelings of elation and pride. It’s nice to see these things come together and to see all of the sacrifices pay off.”

Besides Eliasson, the Thrashers are coached by Royce Manary, Anthony Knapp and Dan Ferguson.

As for Monday’s WHL playoff game, the Wheat Kings trail the best of seven opening round series three games to two following Saturday’s 9-5 loss in Alberta. A Brandon victory on Monday night will force a seventh and deciding game on Wednesday night in Medicine Hat.

Tickets to Monday’s game are on sale at the MTS Centre box office, online at ticketmaster.ca or by calling Toll Free 1-855-985-5000. Western Manitoba hockey fans can also purchase tickets Monday morning (in person) at the Keystone Centre box office as clean up continues from the annual Royal Manitoba Winter Fair.

Those fans interested in boarding the bus to Winnipeg Monday afternoon are encouraged to contact Brandon Bus Lines at 571-0231.