Mar 28, 2017 | jarthurs | 1431 views
Stars Shine Bright Winning Georgian Bay Finals
Contending against a lightning fast Wasaga team, with solid defence and dynamite goaltending, the Shelburne Wolves could not take a bite out of the Wasaga Stars as the Stars swept the series winning the Georgian Bay finals.
Marking the pinnacle of a fantastic season the Stars demonstrated excellent sportsmanship throughout the season and into both the OMHA and Georgian Bay finals.
A new addition to the Peewee team this year, the Star's starting Goaltender Keegan, started the season off strong and continued to master his skills, constantly elevating his performance to consistently outperform the improving opposition. Quick reflexes, focused attention, and sure dedication proved to position Keegan as a key cornerstone of the team.
Speed, agility and an ever impressive breakout and forechecking pressure proved too much for many teams as the forward lines of the Stars outworked their opponents
Leading the team on the attack with pinpoint accuracy this year was Owen, a veteran of the team, with a strong Wasaga hockey bloodline. Owen found the net many times often from incredible angles and maneuvering through packs of players. The speedy and always impressive Patrick made for an excellent pairing with Owen, with his quick breakout speed and fearless demeanor. His ability to quickly stop and restart in different directions allowed Patrick to beat even the strongest of defense. Completing the line of Patrick and Owen was the lightning fast, hard working Cody. A threat to all opposition, Cody's ability to retrieve the puck from within a scrum along the boards and drive hard to the net to make the big play and then back check to stop a goal proved a key to the team's success.
The forward line of Will, Ethan and Evan resembled a coordinated attack matched by none in the league. The break-out skill and awareness of each other's positions made for exciting mid-ice hockey and superb positioning in the offensive zone. With the most aggressive forecheck and backcheck of the team, Will demonstrated not only lethal scoring power close the the net but endless energy, tiring the opposition, allowing for the Stars to take the victory. With hands and skills similar to that of Patrick Kane, Ethan quickly proved his ability to dangle around even the biggest of defensemen, scoring many times with a swift corner around the defense and cut to the net, finding an open top corner to the dismay of many goalies. Another veteran of the team, Evan paired perfectly with his line-mates, mastering the saucer pass and using his creativity to move throughout the defense and put the puck in the net, posting increasing scoring numbers throughout the season.
At the beginning of the year, a special meeting was held with the Defensive squad of the Stars. Leading into the season it was known that defensive strength would be a cornerstone to the season. This proved true as demonstrated by a super talented defense. Returning veterans Aaron, Maddox and Matthew towered the league and combined with the return of Jacob to Wasaga and the tenacious Trevor, the defense sent chills through the opposition offense.
Aaron's presence was certainly felt as he defended in open ice and heavy in the corners, backing down from no challenge while also hitting the back of the opposition goal supporting offensively. Maddox's smarts in positioning and play making strategies, combined with strong passing and shooting skills, made for a great defensive presence and some exciting breaks towards the opposing goalie. This is exactly what the team needed to not only solidify the defense but make for some exciting rushes. Specializing in the ability to hold the blue line, Matthew showed strong presence on the ice. A difficult player to get around, with a long reach, Matthew shut down many an offensive attack before they could become an increased threat. Coming up with some of the biggest shots from the point Matthew also put up some points this year.
To the Star's benefit, returning back to the Beach this year, Jacob showed superior talent in skating and breakouts. A strong player with the puck, Jacob's ability to move the puck effortlessly down the ice or pass right onto the tape of another player was essential to creating the powerful and quick breakouts the Stars were famous for. The feisty and relentless efforts of Trevor showed the opposition just what they were up against if they were looking to get a scoring chance. Not afraid to mix it up, Trevor could transition from strong defense into a power forward and then hold the blue line, stopping the opposing team from starting a rush. Great with the puck and a sharp shot, Trevor completed the strong defensive squad.
Coach Paul credits the conditioning of the players to hard work in practice and calls out the Zezel drill in particular. "The boys learned that the effort they put into practice, resulted in success on game day", "As evident with our 8 game winning streak, our team has worked hard throughout the season and has truly improved as a team and as individuals"
Coach Paul's continued dedication to Peewee hockey, his proven techniques with support from Richard and Kelly, have once again led to a successful year and developing the players both on and off the ice. Showing compassion and recognition of the Canadian winters, many thanks to Paul from the supporting coaching staff for the lifting of the no toque rule. Special credit to team manager Rob as well, thanks for always looking after the room, good luck next year.
A great parent and fan base helped make for a great season.
Many thanks to all for a great season.