Cafe owner's son joins father on hockey's legendary trophy
Maliq West scored for the Newcastle Northstars' championship win, becoming the fifth father-son duo on the 117-year-old Goodall Cup.
Cafe owner Julie 'Julz' West closed Hippy Java in Boolaroo and travelled to Melbourne with her family and staff to watch her son Maliq in the AIHL finals. Maliq scored the final goal in the semifinal against Sydney Ice Dogs on August 29.
The Northstars then beat Canberra Brave 2-1 to claim the 2026 Goodall Cup. Maliq and his father Rick both wore number 23 during their ice hockey careers.
They are now the fifth father-and-son pair to have their names engraved on the championship trophy in its 117-year history. Maliq, 21, plays during the Australian season and trains overseas during the off-season.
His dedication means passing on snow trips, nights out, and camping to focus on hockey.
- 21
- Maliq's age
- 23
- Shared jersey number
- 117 years old
- Goodall Cup history
- Newcastle Northstars 2, Canberra Brave 1
- Championship score
Why it mattersA small community rallied around a young player's achievement, showing how sport builds connection and pride beyond the game itself.
AustraliaNewcastle ice hockey gains profile through a local father-and-son legacy, with the Northstars' championship drawing widespread community support in their hometown.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 8 d ago
