Jan 19, 2019 | Derek Cherrey | 640 views
International Silverstick in Pelham
After 2 more wins to start 2019 off on the winning foot to Wingham and Huron Bruce respectively, the boys were off to Pelham for the International Silverstick with friends and family following.
The tournament was fun, a lot of fun. The Crusaders had 4 games coming up short on each of them, finishing 0-4. We had 2 close ones in the round robin posting a one goal and two goal defeat in them. We new we were in tough in this tournament as the format put our little center up against B Center powerhouses. This tournament was full of Champions and the play of all teams at all ages proved just that. Our boys did the Blyth Brussels Communities proud. They were on their best behaviour, played hard, disciplined hockey, showing upmost respect for their opponents and the tournament Committees. Us as coaches and parents couldn't be more proud of that fact. We learned a lot, as you do plying against a much bigger stronger team. Some times in hockey and in life you win for losing!!
Fast forward to January 19th, and that is just what happened. The Crusaders hit the ice for a game against The Wingham Ironmen who came to town to play The Regional Silverstick Champions for the second weekend straight. The kids put in their best practice of the season this past Wednesday and they didn't miss a beat, beating Wingham 10-0. Aiden The Quiet One Hickey posted his first shut out ever. He wasn't busy, but when he was called upon to make some saves, he did. His technique was pretty close to perfect. The Crusaders as a team played their most complete team game of the year, in my eyes. Solid. Never in doubt. No mistakes. And now that both goalies are going and the team speed is picking up, and the passing is improving with every game all I can say is WATCH THE HECK OUT!!!!
Justin Case Fleet was on fire today, scoring 5 times and bullying his way around the ice all day, breaking the 50 goal barrier. He now has 53 goals in 32 games. That is incredible work Justin!!! Hot Rod Rodney Ansley scored 4 more to add to his insane assault on the scoring race and taking time away from scoring to be the play maker setting up his linemates multiple times for wonderful scoring chances. Everett The Blyth Brawler Cherrey played forward for the first time in almost a season and a half and scored once on a bullet scoring short side on the Wingham goalie. The defence played soundly, obviously, playing a neat, quiet game on the back end. Three more regular season games to go to get a few things cleaned up and get ready for a deep run into the WOAA playoffs.
We are proud of all of you for your hard work and commitment to the game plan. You made us coaches look great today. Keep it up
Coach Derek