2 games left. It seems like the season just started. Even though the season isn't officially over until Saturday, for the Junior Blades the season came to an end on February 1st. After our loss to the now first place team Orchard Lake St. Mary's, the overall effort has lacked in every game. It showed in the 2nd game against O.L.S.M losing 10-2 and it showed in the first half of the Brother Rice game. However the last half of Sunday's game we played our game and we looked like the team that was in contention for the league title. As I told you guys in the locker room after the 7-1 loss, I partially blame myself for our play in February. Going into every league game saying it was the most important game of the year, that if we didn't win we would be out of the Championship game. What I should have said was go out and have fun. I put too much pressure on you guys to win, and that is not what I am supposed to do as a coach. I just see the talent on this team and I know that we could be successful. I just wanted you guys to see it too.
2 games left. Let's finish this season on a high note. Go into each game not looking to win, but looking to have fun doing something you love to do. Play each shift with a maximum amount of effort.
We may not be playing for any big trophy, but I feel we are playing for something better than a trophy...PRIDE.
Despite Saturday's loss, I feel we played really well this weekend. We beat an up-and coming Varsity team friday night 3-2. And on Saturday we lost to one of the best teams in our league, Orchard Lake Saint Mary's, 3-1.
I knew going into Saturday that we would be on defense for most of the game. They are a quick team, and play really well together. Before the game we stressed NO PENALTIES, and that is what won the game for them. Other than the penalties, I thought the game was great to watch. The was good flow, and nice play all around.
So what does the loss mean in the standings?
Well, what it means is this...If we want to play in the Championship game, ,a few things have to happen. We still have a shot. WE HAVE TO WIN EVERY LEAGUE GAME. And, we have to have some fate on our side. A combination of teams have to tie or lose. It's complicated, but if we do our part, we just might be playing for the title.