The Soo North Stars faced the challenge of opening the Telus Cup national midget hockey championships against the host team from Red Deer.
Despite a solid effort, the North Stars were blanked 2-0 by Red Deer, who outshot the North Stars 30-14.
The game was scoreless after one period while Red Deer led 1-0 after two.
Matt Amadio was named the game star for the North Stars, who are back in action on Tuesday afternoon against the representatives from the Pacific region.