The Los Angeles Jr. Kings’ 16U AAA Minor squad took home the top prize at this year’s 15U/16U National Invitational Tournament, which was showcased last weekend (March 17-20) just outside of Pittsburgh.

The Jr. Kings, led by head coach Jaro Modry, forged a 4-1 record at the prestigious event, which was contested at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex and featured eight of the top 15U/16U teams in the country, including a 7-2 triumph over the Amherst Jr. Knights in the championship game.

“Our entire group dug deep and put together an outstanding effort the entire weekend against some very strong competition,” said Modry. “I can’t say enough about these boys and the commitment each one of them put forth for the betterment of the team.”

L.A. opened the tournament on Thursday with a 6-1 victory over the Phoenix Jr. Coyotes, followed by a 4-3 win over the New Jersey Rockets the next day. The Jr. Kings closed pool play on Saturday with a 4-1 loss to Pittsburgh’s Esmark Stars.

In the semifinals, L.A. took down the Milwaukee Jr. Admirals, 4-3, before finishing business against Amherst.

“To wrap up our season in this fashion is rewarding, to say the least, and I can’t tell you how proud I am of all our players and families,” Modry added. “It’s a selfless, hard-working group, and truly a pleasure to coach.”