As the Scotiabank GTHL Playoffs begin for the Minor Midget AAA division, the Mississauga Rebels are looking to accomplish an impressive feat – repeat as GTHL Playoff champions.

As the reigning Bantam playoff and Kraft Cup winners, the Rebels went 18-7-8 in the regular season for a fourth place finish. Seven of their players were chosen for the League’s 8th Annual GTHL Top Prospects Game, Powered by Under Armour.

The road to back-to-back championships is going to be a test of talent, skill level, and endurance for the team. Coach Paul Jackson understands that this may be the toughest test that this close-knit group has yet to face.

“To finish this run off as champions is not out of the question, but it will be very difficult,” said Jackson. “Any team is capable of winning this year’s League. The League is filled with many talented and skilled players”.

The Rebels, many who have been with the team since Peewee, have seen their share of success as a group, winning two Kraft Cups and three playoff titles since 2013-14. Rebels defenceman Michael Vukojevic believes the players have built a foundation for playoff success.

“With the new additions and chemistry we have, we should win the playoffs again,” he said. “We are a team built off of the bond between us, we all want to win and we push each other every day.”

Vukojevic’s fellow defenceman Evan Brand also believes the group has built a strong foundation for playoff success.

“Everyone on the team needs to know their role and execute it at their very best in order to succeed. We need to work as a team and support each other even if someone makes a mistake”.

The Rebels are currently taking on the Mississauga Senators in the first round of the Scotiabank GTHL Playoffs. Click here for full schedules and results.