After going undefeated to win the Seaforth Novice Rep Tournament in November, the Novice Rep Sailors had a run of tough games through December and January.
However, toward the end of January, things have gotten back on track for the team, and the Sailors have learned to play their game with a new determination that we have not seen from them before. The boys have learned not to be pushed around on the ice, but are doing a good job of maintaining their good sportsmanship as well.
Every individual on the team has improved and learned to push themselves a little harder, and the results have been positive, with a 5-4 victory over the tough Listowel Cyclones on January 26th, a 3-3 tie against the Seaforth Stars on February 1st, and a very commendable and hard-fought 4-1 loss on February 3 against the nearly unbeatable BCH Ice Dogs.
Most important to note is that goals and assists are coming from a variety of players on the team as the boys are gradually learning to work together and play their positions correctly. Our centremen are having good luck getting the puck into the back of the net, and forward lines are becoming stronger and learning to push harder to clear the puck out of their own end. The Sailor defensemen are solid and contributing goals and assists as well, with goalie Ben G. playing solid games in net. The passing game is getting better and it is becoming clear that this squad is more deliberate and thinking about their actions and reactions on the ice, and making some smart plays as a result.
At the beginning of the season, the coaches promised these boys that if they worked hard, by the end of the season they would know how to play the game. You are well on your way boys, keep up the good work, and continue to push yourselves harder each and every time you step on the ice. With one game left in regular season play, now is the time to put it all together and show everyone what you have learned! Work hard, have FUN and GO SAILORS GO!