| . |
| |
| EMBARKING ON A DYNASTY |
| An Article From The Gilmore Reformer's Ian Fillmore (AP) Citizens of Gilmore: your Gold Jackets are Saskatchewan Hockey League Champions. Get used to it! The Gilmore Gold Jackets, unknown in the minds of most hockey experts prior to the start of the 2006-07 season, now rule the SHL. After climbing their way up the standings of the SHL, the expansion Gold Jackets finally clinched first place the last week of the regular season. Displaying unbelievable heart and character, the Gold Jackets seemed to breeze through the Copenhagen Cup Playoffs. "We peaked at the right time, it was an amazing ride!" says rookie centre Jordan Staal summarizing the feelings of most of his teammates. "Your childhood dream of winning the Copenhagen Cup finally comes true and all that work you put forth through minor hockey and junior, it's all paid off from today." Staal, who lead the SHL in shorthanded points with nine, is quick to allocate credit to his teamates and coaches. "The management in Gilmore is first class. Hanzy (Head Coach/GM Hans Johansen) brought me in to Gilmore and gave me the opportunity to contribute right away." says the 18-year old Staal, who was dealt to the Jackets in a multi-player deal that also brought Martin Biron for streaky goaltender Evgeni Nabokov and the slumping Craig Conroy. As a General Manager, Johansen seems to have the midas touch. Through trades and free agency he was able to add the likes of Zach Parise, Brian Rafalski, Steve Sullivan, Jamie Langenbrunner, Dustin Penner, Derek Roy, Ryan Whitney and Milan Michalek amongst others. "These players were good before they came to Gilmore," says the humble Johansen. "I just identify players that win and love to compete." Johansen's strong managerial abilities can sometimes overshadow his passion and attention to detail as a head coach. "I wouldn't say I'm better at one or the other; I would say I'm equally great at both. Neither would I classify myself as ONLY smooth, sexy or a good singer." says Johansen with a smile. "...But seriously, the boys deserve the credit for this, they gave all they had. I'm very proud coach today." Johansen plans to take a couple weeks and travel to Mexico and the Carribean with his wife Lauren from MTV's "The Hills". Johansen plans to enjoy himself on vacation but get right back to work after he returns. "The second championship is always the hardest. Everyone is always gunning for a champion and complacency will most always lead to failure." concludes Johansen. With Johansen involved, it's safe to say the fans in Gilmore will become accustomed to winning. |