The Rocky Rams’ 2025-26 season came to an end in disappointing fashion Feb. 9, as the team fell 3-2 in overtime to the Airdrie Techmation Thunder.

The game marked the rubber match in the HJHL’s Series A divisional qualifier after the Rams forced a deciding Game 3 with a thrilling 7-5 home victory Feb. 8.

After a scoreless opening 20 minutes in Game 3 in Airdrie, Rams forwards Owen Green and Dextin Dieterle-Reimer each found the net, giving Rocky a 2-1 lead after 40 minutes.

Midway through the third period, the Rams surrendered a power-play goal to Thunder forward Evan Peter, tying the game 2-2.

Just 90 seconds into overtime, Airdrie’s Kaelan Weisbick scored the winner, sending the Thunder to the HJHL divisional semifinals against Red Deer.

Despite the loss, Rams GM and head coach Wendall Mason said the team delivered a strong effort.

“We took a couple of penalties — whether they were questionable or not is to be determined — but it doesn’t change the outcome of the game,” Mason said. “I thought we had the compete and the effort to win. Sometimes you get a lucky bounce, and we didn’t get the bounce we needed.”

Game 1 of the semifinal series between the Thunder and the Red Deer Vipers goes Saturday, Feb. 14, in Red Deer.

Team overcame adversity in 2025-26

Mason described the 2025-26 Rams as a group that faced and overcame adversity.

With multiple lineup changes and a coaching change during the season, Mason said the challenges helped bring the team closer together, even though it fell short of its ultimate goal.

Optimism for 2026-27

As the Rams head into the offseason, Mason said discussions are already underway to fill the head coaching role on a full-time basis ahead of next season.

He added that fans have reason for optimism, with a solid group of young players on the team’s radar.

“It’s shaping up to be promising for years to come,” Mason said.

Final thoughts

Mason thanked the team’s corporate partners, players, coaching staff, behind-the-scenes volunteers and fans for their continued support throughout the season.

The Rams finished the regular season with an 11-24-1 record.