Well...it's never good when the bus driver greets you in the parking lot, but there's no bus in sight...
That's how the day started, a 7 AM meeting time at the MTS Iceplex for the players and parents, a 7:15AM departure time, an awesome bus driver, but no bus. Not the best start to the weekend, but with a little patience and some extra coffee, the bus showed up and we departed shortly before 8 AM. The Winnipeg ICE got a much needed win 6 days earlier, so confidence was high as they sat on the bus for the 6 1/2 hour trip to The Pas to face the Norman Wild. A quick check-in at the hotel before heading out for a 4:00PM team meal, then back to the hotel for an hour of quiet time. Before boarding the bus on the way to the rink, the team tried to shake off the bus legs by re-living some of the games they played at the Team Launch Party in September. Since it was a bit brisk outside, and getting dark, this pre-pre-game warm-up lasted only 15 minutes, but it sure woke them up!
The first game of the weekend started very nicely for the ICE, as they started quickly and applied the pressure. The ICE managed to open the scoring when Jessi Campbell scored her 4th goal in two games, assisted by Rielle Chwartacki. Despite a long day on the bus, the energy seemed to be high, both on the ice and on the bench. However, a determined Wild team found a way back into the game, scoring twice before the period ended, taking a 2-1 lead into the intermission. The ICE were a little disappointed to be down after 1, but they held the balance of play and they outshot the Wild 19-12. Still feeling confident from their win on Sunday, the ICE vowed not to panic and seemed ready to get back in the game in the second period. The ICE took control early on in the second period, but couldn't score. But 10 minutes into the second frame Carley Jewell scored to tie the game at 2-2, assisted by Jessi Campbell. The teams traded chances for a few minutes, and Kathleen Kosior made several big saves to preserve a 2-2 score until the Wild took the lead again with just over 4 minutes to go. Determined to tie up before the period ended the ICE pushed back, and Maddy Neapew found the back of the net to tie the game up with only 2 minutes left. The momentum shifted back to the ICE after their 3rd goal, which allowed Carley Jewell to score her second goal of the night 1 minute later, from Jessi Campbell again. With 2 goals in the last 2 minutes of the 2nd period, the ICE were excited to hold a 4-3 lead going into the third period. The players spoke of composure and determination in playing the final 20 minutes as hard as the first 40. The third period was full of end to end action, but the ICE seemed to control the play deep in the Wild zone for most of the period. The Wild could only manage 6 shots on net, to the ICE's 18 in the final frame, and Kosior stopped them all. Rielle Chwartacki added an empty net goal to give the ICE their second straight win, 5-3. A very tired, but happy team, showed a lot of character by coming from behind twice and winning a tough road game. After the game, it was back to the hotel for a late night snack, and lights out at 11:30. The rematch awaited the ICE only 11 hours later...
The second game of the weekend was also a tight game between the ICE and the Wild. This game started quicker for the ICE as they jumped out to an early 2-0 lead on goals by Rielle Chwartacki, and Jane Roxburgh. Michelle Kerdes made some key saves in the first period, allowing the ICE to hold to 2-0 lead after the first period. As the weekend seemed to start to wear on the ICE, the players were reminded once again about how their success has been tied to playing a tough team game and working for 60 solid minutes. It would take 40 more minutes played at the same intensity to escape with another win. The Wild were not going away in the second period, as they clawed their way back into the game, scoring twice in the second period to even the score at 2-2. The ICE responded later in the period on Rielle Chwartacki's second goal of the night, assisted by Melissa Blaine, to earn a 3-2 lead after two periods. 20 minutes from a third straight win, left the players dying for the third period to begin. But the home team seemed to have the edge in the third, right out of the gate. The Wild scored twice in the first 10 minutes of the third period, to come all the way back and take a 4-3 lead. The ICE pressed for the tie, and outshot the Wild 16-6 in the third period, but their comeback fell short, as the Wild hung on for a 4-3 win. The ICE players were disappointed with the way the weekend ended, but did manage to see the countless positives of the weekend. BUT...what would a road trip be without visiting the rural town's hospital?? That's right, Ashley Kubic fell awkwardly, and her elbow pad shifted. While she didn't know it at the time, her elbow split and required some medical attention. Other than coming off briefly to shake off the fall, Ashley finished the game very strong. It wasn't until after the game that she noticed her elbow wasn't bruised it was split.
Already without Tasia Girden (knee), the ICE had to travel without Meara Grant, who could not play this weekend due to illness. The line-shuffle moved Carely Jewell from defence to forward and left the ICE with only 4 defence for the weekend. A big kudos goes out the ICE D for playing big minutes all weekend! Melissa Blaine, Sara Reuther, Allie Bednarz, and Ashley Kubic survived a tough weekend of hockey!
So overall it was a great weekend, the ICE played some very good hockey, but the players know that there's still much work to be done. This weekend was about bonding more, building confidence, and feeling some positive energy. With those goals in mind, it is safe to say that the weekend was a success. The coaching staff is proud of the way the team represented themselves, as the hotel staff was very impressed with how respectful and responsible the girls were this weekend. We have a long, long way to go, but one can see that strides have been made. Keep it up girls, it is happening.
~Coach
Monday, November 19, 2012
Monday, November 12, 2012
Winnipeg ICE crack the W column...
It's true...it's only 1 game, but wow does it ever feel good to get a win! After a Saturday date with Central Plains was postponed due the storm, the Winnipeg ICE hosted the Norman Wild on Sunday afternoon. Coming off of a win over Eastman on Friday, and a very impressive tie with the Avros on Saturday, the Wild walked into Notre Dame Arena on Sunday as a very confident hockey team. However, after a great 2 hour practice (instead of a game) on Saturday night, the ICE were very prepared and quite excited to play as well.
The game began with a quick chance and a shot just over the net by Chantel Olson. After a shift change, the next ICE line vowed to keep the pressure up and get pucks to the net early. After another shift change, the next line was also able to pressure quickly and direct pucks at the net, putting Norman back on their heels to start the game. The energy stayed high on the bench and each ICE line seemed to carry the balance of play. Michelle Kerdes was solid in net when called upon in the first period, which was a sign of things to come. Despite a fairly constant attack, the ICE didn't solve the Norman goalie early on. Finally, with about 4 minutes left in first period, the ICE took a 1-0 lead on a goal from Soupy (Jessi Campbell), assisted by Meara Grant. A late chance for the Wild was turned aside by Kerdes, preserving the 1-0 lead after the first period. In what was described by Coach Jim "as the best period of hockey this team has played to date", the ICE outshot the Wild 20-5. At intermission, the players were reminded that it would take another 40 minutes of the same level of play to get the job done. The players seemed excited about their play to this point, but seemed to understand that their work was far from finished.
The Wild came out very strong in the second period, and it seemed like the ICE might let them back into this game. Kerdes stood tall early on in this period, which allowed the ICE to get back to what they did in the first period. The teams went back and forth for the first 10 minutes of the period, with neither team finding the back of the net. With about 8 minutes left in the second period, Chantel Olson scored to stretch the lead to 2-0, on a goal assisted by Michelle Anderson and Jane Roxburgh. The Wild didn't back down, but the ICE bench seemed determined to see this game through until the end. Late in the second period, Norman finally found a way to beat Kerdes, scoring with a minute left to make it 2-1 for the ICE. At intermission the girls tried to shake off the late goal against, and agreed that their play in the first was better than the second. The team spoke of the importance of owning the third period and sticking to a team game. 20 minutes is a long time, could the girls keep it together long enough?
The answer to that question came very quickly in the third, as Soupy scored her second goal of the night, from Meara Grant and Rielle Chwartacky, 90 seconds into the third period to give the ICE their 2 goal lead back at 3-1. The bench was alive and their confidence started to build. To their credit, the Wild never stopped skating and pushed the ICE to the limit, but Kerdes saved her best period for the last one. 9 minutes after Soupy got her second of the game, Olson scored her second of the game as well, from Sara Reuther, to give the ICE a 4-1 lead. The focus on the bench turned to defense-first, as all players were asked to protect the D-Zone. But the Wild would not quit, forcing a number of odd-player rushes (2 on 1s, 3 on 1s) late in the third period. Thankfully for the ICE, Kerdes was excellent in the final 5 minutes to preserve the first win of the season for the ICE. Soupy added her hat-trick goal, as she scored into an empty net, late in the game to cap off a great performance by the whole team.
In a season where not many bounces have gone their way, and finding the W column seemed to get harder every game, the ICE have faithfully stuck to it every single time they have stepped on the ice. The coaches expected to be greeted by looks of relief on the faces of the players, but instead, they were greeted by looks of hunger. The players were extremely happy, no doubt, but the look in their eyes said "we are hungry for more of this". Pleased with the outcome, to say the least, but the players are not satisfied with simply 1 win. Sunday's game was a great step forward on a difficult journey. It seems like we're about to find out what this team is really made of.
The Winnipeg ICE look to keep it going next weekend as they travel to The Pas to face the same Norman Wild team for 2 games. Saturday's game is at 7:30pm, while Sunday's game is at 10:30am.
Sure...it is only 1 game. But this team really deserves some success. All bets are off now, they know they can do it...they just have to do it every game.
~Coach
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Not exactly how you would draw it up...
To say that the weekend didn't go as planned would be the understatement of the century. As the Winnipeg Ice boarded a huge pink Beaver Bus Line motorcoach on Saturday morning, the confidence of earning a tie 6 days earlier kept everyone in a good mood. What each person on the bus did not know, was that weekend in southwestern Manitoba would test the bond that everyone on this team shares.
It wasn't all good news though, as the team found out on Friday that they would still be missing one of their leaders, as Ollie was unable to travel with the team. But the team felt good about the weekend, as their first opponent was the same team they skated to a draw with at home on Sunday afternoon. The afternoon went smoothly: quick bus trip to Brandon, team meal at Montana's, and finally check-in at the hotel. After a little time to unwind and claim some space in their hotel rooms, the players were back on the bus for 70 minute ride to Shoal Lake. Turns out the game was scheduled for 7:30 instead of 7:00, so the bus was a bit early, but the players did need a little longer warm-up anyways, after spending most of the day on the bus. Finally, at 7:30pm the game vs. Yellowhead got underway, and the teams picked up where they left off from Sunday, as they skated back and forth trading chances. It was a pretty good first period, that saw the ICE fail to capitalize on a few chances early on. However, before the first period ended, Yellowhead managed to take a 1-0 lead. Kathleen Kosior was strong in net through the first period. The second period began with another Chiefs goal, extending the lead to 2-0 before the ICE could mount any counter attack. It only got worse from there, already on a penalty kill, the ICE took another penalty (kind of a soft call, in my opinion) to give the Chiefs nearly 2:00 on a 5 on 3 powerplay. Surely another goal against here would put the game out of reach...but the ICE PK stood very tall (and so did Kathleen in net) and found a way to kill off both powerplays. The ICE bench woke up for the first time since Yellowhead took the lead, and momentum seemed to be building. As the ICE pressed to shrink the lead, the Chiefs took a penalty...giving the ICE an opportunity to get closer. A little bit of possession and a few shots on net gave the ICE hope, but a mistake at the blue line and bad bounce resulted in the Chiefs scoring a short-handed goal...and ultimately broke the hearts of the ICE players. The 3-0 deficit wasn't even the worst part of the second period, as Michelle Anderson blocked a shot with her hand. At first she tried to play through the pain, she is a warrior by the way, as her hand was swollen and bruised immediately. She went to the dressing room with several minutes left in the second period, but did not get changed just yet. The loss of another player seemed to drain the ICE even more than the shorthanded goal, leading to another goal by the Chiefs before the end of the second period. At intermission, the coaches reminded Michelle that she would not need to continue in such pain, as she has proven enough today by playing through it for so long. She did play one more shift later in the third period, but was finally convinced that she needed to get it looked at. She left for the Shoal Lake hospital with a few parents and the ICE were left to finish the game without her. The game ended in a very disappointing 5-0 loss. Disappointment in the dressing room was quickly changed to relief as Michelle was already back and her hand did not appear broken. Very few positives came out of the Saturday night game, but it did seem like the injury was not as bad as it looked.
Daylight savings time allowed an extra hour of sleep for the ICE on Sunday morning, as the team met at Smitty's for a 9:00am team breakfast, before boarding the bus at 11:30am for Hartney, Manitoba. The Westman Wildcats were waiting for the ICE, a day after they beat a very tough Avros team 3-2. Westman is a very fast, big, and skilled team, and they showed it very early on, taking a 4-0 lead in the opening 5 minutes. It wasn't even that the ICE were making glaring mistakes, it was simply that any small mistake, or any player being out of position, lead to a Westman goal (every goal seemed to hit metal). But, being down 4-0 was nothing compared to how the ICE felt with about 8:45 left in the first period.
A very tough knee on knee hit to ICE defenseman Tasia Girden, led to very scary scene for all ICE players and coaches and fans. Zack was met with screams as she approached Tasia. The teams were ushered to their dressing room as everyone waited for the ambulance. It seemed like hours, but the ambulance made it and the paramedics did a great job. Tasia was transported to the Souris hospital and was examined there. ICE parent Jamie Bednarz accompanied her SECOND player in two days to the hospital, and the ICE finished the game without another one of their teammates. Michelle Anderson was luckily able to play, but the ICE didn't seem to have it on this day. The details will be spared, but with Tasia in the back of their minds, the ICE lost 9-1 to Westman.
In a weekend where everything went wrong: two losses, 2 injuries, 2 hospitals...and 1 pink beaver bus getting stuck in Shoal Lake...the players supported each other through every minute. In a season where very few things, if any, have gone their way...the players are in it for each other. If anything can be taken from last weekend's experience is that the bond shared between the players on this team is stronger than ever. They have already learned more about themselves and their teammates than most teams will learn all season long. Now it is time for some bounces, some breaks, and some success. Keep at it girls!
~Coach
It wasn't all good news though, as the team found out on Friday that they would still be missing one of their leaders, as Ollie was unable to travel with the team. But the team felt good about the weekend, as their first opponent was the same team they skated to a draw with at home on Sunday afternoon. The afternoon went smoothly: quick bus trip to Brandon, team meal at Montana's, and finally check-in at the hotel. After a little time to unwind and claim some space in their hotel rooms, the players were back on the bus for 70 minute ride to Shoal Lake. Turns out the game was scheduled for 7:30 instead of 7:00, so the bus was a bit early, but the players did need a little longer warm-up anyways, after spending most of the day on the bus. Finally, at 7:30pm the game vs. Yellowhead got underway, and the teams picked up where they left off from Sunday, as they skated back and forth trading chances. It was a pretty good first period, that saw the ICE fail to capitalize on a few chances early on. However, before the first period ended, Yellowhead managed to take a 1-0 lead. Kathleen Kosior was strong in net through the first period. The second period began with another Chiefs goal, extending the lead to 2-0 before the ICE could mount any counter attack. It only got worse from there, already on a penalty kill, the ICE took another penalty (kind of a soft call, in my opinion) to give the Chiefs nearly 2:00 on a 5 on 3 powerplay. Surely another goal against here would put the game out of reach...but the ICE PK stood very tall (and so did Kathleen in net) and found a way to kill off both powerplays. The ICE bench woke up for the first time since Yellowhead took the lead, and momentum seemed to be building. As the ICE pressed to shrink the lead, the Chiefs took a penalty...giving the ICE an opportunity to get closer. A little bit of possession and a few shots on net gave the ICE hope, but a mistake at the blue line and bad bounce resulted in the Chiefs scoring a short-handed goal...and ultimately broke the hearts of the ICE players. The 3-0 deficit wasn't even the worst part of the second period, as Michelle Anderson blocked a shot with her hand. At first she tried to play through the pain, she is a warrior by the way, as her hand was swollen and bruised immediately. She went to the dressing room with several minutes left in the second period, but did not get changed just yet. The loss of another player seemed to drain the ICE even more than the shorthanded goal, leading to another goal by the Chiefs before the end of the second period. At intermission, the coaches reminded Michelle that she would not need to continue in such pain, as she has proven enough today by playing through it for so long. She did play one more shift later in the third period, but was finally convinced that she needed to get it looked at. She left for the Shoal Lake hospital with a few parents and the ICE were left to finish the game without her. The game ended in a very disappointing 5-0 loss. Disappointment in the dressing room was quickly changed to relief as Michelle was already back and her hand did not appear broken. Very few positives came out of the Saturday night game, but it did seem like the injury was not as bad as it looked.
Daylight savings time allowed an extra hour of sleep for the ICE on Sunday morning, as the team met at Smitty's for a 9:00am team breakfast, before boarding the bus at 11:30am for Hartney, Manitoba. The Westman Wildcats were waiting for the ICE, a day after they beat a very tough Avros team 3-2. Westman is a very fast, big, and skilled team, and they showed it very early on, taking a 4-0 lead in the opening 5 minutes. It wasn't even that the ICE were making glaring mistakes, it was simply that any small mistake, or any player being out of position, lead to a Westman goal (every goal seemed to hit metal). But, being down 4-0 was nothing compared to how the ICE felt with about 8:45 left in the first period.
A very tough knee on knee hit to ICE defenseman Tasia Girden, led to very scary scene for all ICE players and coaches and fans. Zack was met with screams as she approached Tasia. The teams were ushered to their dressing room as everyone waited for the ambulance. It seemed like hours, but the ambulance made it and the paramedics did a great job. Tasia was transported to the Souris hospital and was examined there. ICE parent Jamie Bednarz accompanied her SECOND player in two days to the hospital, and the ICE finished the game without another one of their teammates. Michelle Anderson was luckily able to play, but the ICE didn't seem to have it on this day. The details will be spared, but with Tasia in the back of their minds, the ICE lost 9-1 to Westman.
In a weekend where everything went wrong: two losses, 2 injuries, 2 hospitals...and 1 pink beaver bus getting stuck in Shoal Lake...the players supported each other through every minute. In a season where very few things, if any, have gone their way...the players are in it for each other. If anything can be taken from last weekend's experience is that the bond shared between the players on this team is stronger than ever. They have already learned more about themselves and their teammates than most teams will learn all season long. Now it is time for some bounces, some breaks, and some success. Keep at it girls!
~Coach
Monday, October 29, 2012
Losing streak over, spirited effort earns a hard fought tie...
The Winnipeg Ice were full value on Sunday afternoon, in a game that saw a number of firsts for this young team. In perhaps the most complete game, the ICE skated to a tie with a tough Yellowhead Chiefs team at Notre Dame Arena. The Ice came out extremely strong and pushed the Chiefs to the limit through the opening 10 minutes. But, as has often been the case, the ICE were not able put one past the goalie early on. The Chiefs pushed back but Kathleen Kosior was very good when she needed to be in the first period of this game. The ICE seemed determined to take the lead before the end of the period, and their persistence paid off...very late in the period. With only 2.7 seconds left, Jane Roxburgh scored from Michelle Anderson and Carley Jewell, on a textbook behind the net passing play. The ICE were in the lead after the first period and they outshot their opponents 14-6 - both "firsts" for this team after the first frame. While pleased with their overall intensity and effort, the coaches and the players stressed the importance of the next 40 minutes, and while a 1-0 lead felt great, the ICE did miss a few opportunities to extend the lead.
The second period was another good one, for both teams. The play went back and forth, with both teams having chances to cash in. Kathleen Kosior was very good again for the ICE, as she made some key saves to keep the score 1-0 for the ICE. After a 5 on 3 powerplay for the ICE resulted in many shots...but unfortunately no goals...the Chiefs scored on their next powerplay chance, on a very nice deflection. The period ended 1-1, but the ICE once outshot their opponent for the second straight period - another "first" for this team. The players reminded each other that a full 60 minutes would be required to find that elusive W everyone has been dying to get. But, they spoke with great confidence that they could get the job done. A much different attitude that some of the previous games, one could tell that this team was not about to lose this one.
The third period turned out to be just as exciting as the first two, as both teams pressed for the winner. Both goaltenders were very good in net, and neither team ended up as the victor. Kosior saved her best period for last, as she preserved the tie for the ICE with a few dazzling saves before the final buzzer.
In the room after the game, the coaching staff expected a sense of relief...as they finally managed to earn at least 1 point - another 'first' for this team. But what the coaches actually found was some level of relief and happiness, but also hunger in the players' eyes to feel victory! Of course the players were pleased with their game, but it was obvious they wanted more. This 1 point was a huge step forward for this team, and they are ready to take a few more steps together. The ICE and Chiefs play the second game of their home and home series on Saturday in Shoal Lake at 7:00pm. Great job girls, let's go get that win!
~Coach
The second period was another good one, for both teams. The play went back and forth, with both teams having chances to cash in. Kathleen Kosior was very good again for the ICE, as she made some key saves to keep the score 1-0 for the ICE. After a 5 on 3 powerplay for the ICE resulted in many shots...but unfortunately no goals...the Chiefs scored on their next powerplay chance, on a very nice deflection. The period ended 1-1, but the ICE once outshot their opponent for the second straight period - another "first" for this team. The players reminded each other that a full 60 minutes would be required to find that elusive W everyone has been dying to get. But, they spoke with great confidence that they could get the job done. A much different attitude that some of the previous games, one could tell that this team was not about to lose this one.
The third period turned out to be just as exciting as the first two, as both teams pressed for the winner. Both goaltenders were very good in net, and neither team ended up as the victor. Kosior saved her best period for last, as she preserved the tie for the ICE with a few dazzling saves before the final buzzer.
In the room after the game, the coaching staff expected a sense of relief...as they finally managed to earn at least 1 point - another 'first' for this team. But what the coaches actually found was some level of relief and happiness, but also hunger in the players' eyes to feel victory! Of course the players were pleased with their game, but it was obvious they wanted more. This 1 point was a huge step forward for this team, and they are ready to take a few more steps together. The ICE and Chiefs play the second game of their home and home series on Saturday in Shoal Lake at 7:00pm. Great job girls, let's go get that win!
~Coach
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Third period not the issue this time...
After having the wheels fall off in the third period of the both of the last two games, the Ice vowed not to allow that to happen on Friday night in Portage. The game started with high hopes of putting together a full 60 minutes and getting a win against a tough team from Central Plains. The teams traded chances early on and it seemed like both teams settled in to their game plans. The Capitals were relentless on the forecheck all night long, which took away time and space from the Ice players. Midway through the period, the Capitals scored from a tough angle to take a one nothing lead, followed by another odd goal a few minutes later to take a 2-0 lead. The Ice did not want to let this game get away from them, so they pushed back and Jane Roxburgh got the Ice closer with a goal late in the first period , after some very hard work from her linemates. Carley Jewell, playing her first game at forward this season, and Ashley Kubic assisted on Jane's goal. A tough first period ended with a 2-1 deficit, but the Ice were confident they could make a game of this. The Capitals pressed hard in that period but Michelle Kerdes was very good in net. Two mistakes led to the Capitals first two goals, so the Ice players spoke of eliminating mistakes and staying the course in the second period. The Capitals came on strong in the second period, but the Ice were equal to the task as the game wore on. Off of face-off in the second, the Capitals found a loose puck and took it to the net, and found a way to make it 3-1. Before the end of the second period, a very impressive Capitals powerplay made it 4-1 on a bullet of a shot from the point. Again, Kerdes was solid in net, but two very skilled plays cashed in for the Capitals. In an odd situation, the Ice talked about how the second period was better than the first, despite allowing two goals. The team did minimize their mistakes, but they weren't able to cash in like the Capitals did. The third period started with the Ice showing a few signs of nervousness, not wanting to allow the third period to get away from them, as it did the last two games. The Capitals pushed hard to seal the deal, but Michelle Kerdes was exceptional in net in this period. The effort and intensity did not fade for the Ice in this third period, but the Capitals proved to be too much on this night, as they added another late goal to win 5-1.
Another tough loss, left more questions than answers...but the effort didn't fade in the third. The loss makes 6 straight to open the season. Plain and simple, the Ice need to find a way to get a win and build from there. The longer it takes to win, the harder it gets. Nobody in the Winnipeg Ice camp is happy about this start, but this event is not a sprint...it's a marathon. Stay the course. Believe.
~Coach
Another tough loss, left more questions than answers...but the effort didn't fade in the third. The loss makes 6 straight to open the season. Plain and simple, the Ice need to find a way to get a win and build from there. The longer it takes to win, the harder it gets. Nobody in the Winnipeg Ice camp is happy about this start, but this event is not a sprint...it's a marathon. Stay the course. Believe.
~Coach
Monday, October 22, 2012
40 minutes is just not enough...
For the second straight time, the Winnipeg Ice fell victim to a disastrous third period, and the Pembina Valley Hawks made them pay, just as the Avros did 5 days earlier. The scoreline doesn't really tell the whole story, but the Winnipeg Ice simply did not have an answer to the Hawks powerplay or their raised level of play in the third period.
The game began with the teams trading chances back and forth, but the Hawks managed to open the scoring 7 and a half minutes into the game on a powerplay. Falling behind has not really been a recipe for success for the Ice so far this season, but to the players' credit they refused to back down and they pushed back. The bench was alive and the players were set on tying it up quickly. 3 minutes after they scored the opening goal, the Hawks scored again on the powerplay (their third one of the period) to make it 2-0. One could sense the air being let out of the Ice's sails, as despite the penalty trouble, they were playing a solid game. Finally, just over a minute later, Rielle Chwartacki scored on the powerplay to bring the Ice back within a goal at intermission. Chantel Olson and and Michelle Anderson assisted on that goal. Kathleen Kosior was excellent in net, stopping 20 of the 22 shots she faced in the first period. The second period started the way the first ended, as the Ice had renewed hope that they could come back in this game. A few chances here and there, left both teams pressing for the next goal. Pembina Valley managed to stretch their lead to 4-1 with 2 goals 5 minutes apart, before the Ice replied with less than 1 minute to go in the second period, when Elizabeth Carter threw one on net and it somehow found a way to beat the Hawks goalie. At 4-2, after 2, the Ice knew that the next goal was key. The players spoke about getting off to a good start as well as being patient, but they also stressed the importance of scoring one early in the third. Most of all, what was seemingly understood was that they had played a pretty tough 40 minutes and that it would take the same gritty effort...and then some...to find a way to even the game up. The players vowed to keep up the effort and intensity and they filed out of the dressing with the confidence that a good result was within their grasp. Unfortunately for the Ice, as was the case in their last game, the third period ended up being their worst. The Hawks dominated the entire period, though the Ice held them off the scoreboard for the first 9 minutes of the period. In a game where it seemed the Ice were constantly on the penalty kill, they took 3 more penalties in the third and PV scored their third powerplay goal of the game to seal the deal with two minutes left. They added another goal just 1 minute later. The Ice did not find the level they needed to in the third period and the Hawks took advantage. The Hawks scored 4 goals in the third to win 8-2.
The room was quiet afterwards, obviously, and the players spoke with disappointment in their voices. Disappointed that they couldn't keep their level of play up where it needed to be for 60 minutes. Disappointed that they still haven't tasted victory together. Disappointed that they let their teammates down on this day.
A 10 minute rule was in effect, as the players were asked to feel the pain of a tough loss over the next 10 minutes, but then to move past and forget about it. They all showed up a mere 14 hours later for off-ice training, and the strength and conditioning coach was greeted to smiles and laughter...which happened to continue through 60 full minutes of intense work...not just 40 this time (which is all they were able to play in their previous two games). When the players showed up for practice the next day, they were greeted to the following quote, and it is their job to understand it and apply it: "The more you sweat in practice, the less you bleed in battle". Keep your heads up girls, your hard work will pay off.
~Coach
The game began with the teams trading chances back and forth, but the Hawks managed to open the scoring 7 and a half minutes into the game on a powerplay. Falling behind has not really been a recipe for success for the Ice so far this season, but to the players' credit they refused to back down and they pushed back. The bench was alive and the players were set on tying it up quickly. 3 minutes after they scored the opening goal, the Hawks scored again on the powerplay (their third one of the period) to make it 2-0. One could sense the air being let out of the Ice's sails, as despite the penalty trouble, they were playing a solid game. Finally, just over a minute later, Rielle Chwartacki scored on the powerplay to bring the Ice back within a goal at intermission. Chantel Olson and and Michelle Anderson assisted on that goal. Kathleen Kosior was excellent in net, stopping 20 of the 22 shots she faced in the first period. The second period started the way the first ended, as the Ice had renewed hope that they could come back in this game. A few chances here and there, left both teams pressing for the next goal. Pembina Valley managed to stretch their lead to 4-1 with 2 goals 5 minutes apart, before the Ice replied with less than 1 minute to go in the second period, when Elizabeth Carter threw one on net and it somehow found a way to beat the Hawks goalie. At 4-2, after 2, the Ice knew that the next goal was key. The players spoke about getting off to a good start as well as being patient, but they also stressed the importance of scoring one early in the third. Most of all, what was seemingly understood was that they had played a pretty tough 40 minutes and that it would take the same gritty effort...and then some...to find a way to even the game up. The players vowed to keep up the effort and intensity and they filed out of the dressing with the confidence that a good result was within their grasp. Unfortunately for the Ice, as was the case in their last game, the third period ended up being their worst. The Hawks dominated the entire period, though the Ice held them off the scoreboard for the first 9 minutes of the period. In a game where it seemed the Ice were constantly on the penalty kill, they took 3 more penalties in the third and PV scored their third powerplay goal of the game to seal the deal with two minutes left. They added another goal just 1 minute later. The Ice did not find the level they needed to in the third period and the Hawks took advantage. The Hawks scored 4 goals in the third to win 8-2.
The room was quiet afterwards, obviously, and the players spoke with disappointment in their voices. Disappointed that they couldn't keep their level of play up where it needed to be for 60 minutes. Disappointed that they still haven't tasted victory together. Disappointed that they let their teammates down on this day.
A 10 minute rule was in effect, as the players were asked to feel the pain of a tough loss over the next 10 minutes, but then to move past and forget about it. They all showed up a mere 14 hours later for off-ice training, and the strength and conditioning coach was greeted to smiles and laughter...which happened to continue through 60 full minutes of intense work...not just 40 this time (which is all they were able to play in their previous two games). When the players showed up for practice the next day, they were greeted to the following quote, and it is their job to understand it and apply it: "The more you sweat in practice, the less you bleed in battle". Keep your heads up girls, your hard work will pay off.
~Coach
Monday, October 15, 2012
Slow start to the season, not the end of the world...
Nobody in the Winnipeg Ice camp would tell you that a 0-4 start is ideal. Nobody associated with the team would say that it has all gone according to plan so far this season. Nobody in the Ice dressing room is satisfied with the standings after 2 weekends of play. Let's be abundantly clear here, zero wins to date is absolutely unacceptable. However, there's something else that you won't hear anybody involved with this team utter...and that is, excuses.
On Sunday, after 40 minutes of their best hockey this season, the Ice allowed their biggest rivals to own the final period and score 4 goals to win 6-1. We'll spare you the details today, you can read all about it in the the previous post, but what might be interesting is how the team showed up to practice a mere 18 hours later.
The coaches have been happy with the vibe around the team so far, but it can be difficult to judge how young players will respond to a very tough loss the day before. Often players will roll into the arena 20-30 minutes before practice, after a tough loss. Often the dressing room will be quiet and somber before practice, after a tough loss. But, the coaches were very pleased to meet an incredibly eager and upbeat team upon arrival to the rink 1 hour before practice time. The whole team was very early and very prepared to step on the ice to continue working towards better results.
A quick debrief about the game the day the before offered explanations but no excuses. The players know exactly what needs to be done to start getting the job done on a more consistent basis. The players recognized very clearly that they have had moments of success against incredibly tough competition, but only when they leave it ALL on the ice and play as a team. They understand that ONE player will not be able to turn this thing around, the whole team needs to step up as a unit.
What followed the debriefing was an excellent fast-paced practice with very few breaks or time between drills. The team skated strong together and continued their development as players and as a team. With the next two days off, the players were pushed a little harder than usual, but it was nothing the girls couldn't handle.
The coaching staff was very pleased with the attitude of the team on Sunday...give them credit, nobody likes to lose, but they are more than willing to put in the work to right the ship. It's been said a number of times on these pages, there's something special about this team...it's just taking a little longer to show the world what we already know. There are tons of excuses for the slow start, but you won't hear any of them from any of us. We got ourselves into this, and we'll surely work our way out...together.
On Sunday, after 40 minutes of their best hockey this season, the Ice allowed their biggest rivals to own the final period and score 4 goals to win 6-1. We'll spare you the details today, you can read all about it in the the previous post, but what might be interesting is how the team showed up to practice a mere 18 hours later.
The coaches have been happy with the vibe around the team so far, but it can be difficult to judge how young players will respond to a very tough loss the day before. Often players will roll into the arena 20-30 minutes before practice, after a tough loss. Often the dressing room will be quiet and somber before practice, after a tough loss. But, the coaches were very pleased to meet an incredibly eager and upbeat team upon arrival to the rink 1 hour before practice time. The whole team was very early and very prepared to step on the ice to continue working towards better results.
A quick debrief about the game the day the before offered explanations but no excuses. The players know exactly what needs to be done to start getting the job done on a more consistent basis. The players recognized very clearly that they have had moments of success against incredibly tough competition, but only when they leave it ALL on the ice and play as a team. They understand that ONE player will not be able to turn this thing around, the whole team needs to step up as a unit.
What followed the debriefing was an excellent fast-paced practice with very few breaks or time between drills. The team skated strong together and continued their development as players and as a team. With the next two days off, the players were pushed a little harder than usual, but it was nothing the girls couldn't handle.
The coaching staff was very pleased with the attitude of the team on Sunday...give them credit, nobody likes to lose, but they are more than willing to put in the work to right the ship. It's been said a number of times on these pages, there's something special about this team...it's just taking a little longer to show the world what we already know. There are tons of excuses for the slow start, but you won't hear any of them from any of us. We got ourselves into this, and we'll surely work our way out...together.
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