True Grit

This weekend the team performed above and beyond expectations in a tournament that presented many challenges. Going into the first game we were even more shorthanded than usual. Many may have wondered if we were pushing the limits by playing larger and higher ranked teams than we have yet to go up against so early in the season. The team pulled off an impressive win. Our second game was a bit on the rough side, yet we only lost to our opponent by a goal in a 2-1 loss. By the second period of our third game we were seeing the effects of fatigue set in, yet the team played with much heart right to the bitter end. It was an impressive display of drive, desire, and true grit that the players presented throughout every second of the tournament. It often came down to a struggle between playing skill vs physical play. I still believe that we should concentrate on skating, passing, puck handling, and shooting. Checking to separate your opponent from the puck is OK with me, but checking to soften up your opponent is too short sighted. I could not be prouder of our team, as I seem to be after every game we have played so far. Each game gets better, and each player continues to improve after each game and after each practice. We still have a lot to work on, but the team definitely does not back down from any challenge. This desire to push the limits and work towards constant improvement is impressive. This is one heck of hockey team.