After stepping away from the game together, for a team event on Friday evening, the ICE went into Saturday's game against Eastman with a positive vibe surrounding the team. A hard working Selects team pushed the pace with the ICE for the opening 15 minutes of the period, with both teams getting chances to score first. With just under 7 minutes left in the period, Meara Grant found Rielle Chwartacki in the high slot, and Rielle quickly slid it by the Selects goalie to give the ICE a 1-0 lead. Kathleen Kosior was excellent in net in the first period, stopping all 14 shots she faced. The ICE players were pleased with the lead, but felt they needed to up the ante in the second period, as Eastman controlled the play at times in the first. The second period was much of the same, as both teams skated strong and had their chances. Eastman fired 15 more shots on Kosior in the second, but were not able to score. The score remained 1-0 through the second period as well, leaving the ICE players confident that they could pull this one out. Despite being outshot through two periods, the ICE were playing a solid defensive game, but the players knew they had to take some chances offensively in order to stretch the lead. The coaches were asking for more from the players at intermission, as Eastman was still winning more battles. The team vowed to stay strong through the final 20 minutes and were asked to make this period their best. The third period was another exciting 20 minutes of hockey, as Eastman tried desperately to even the score. The ICE held their own for most of the period, but the Selects simply never backed down. With 8 minutes to go, the Selects found a 2nd rebound, after two big saves by Kosior, and tied it up 1. The ICE bench was not phased, and they pushed back to re-take the lead. The final 8 minutes were just as exciting as the rest of the game, but neither team could net the winner. The game ended in a 1-1 tie. After the game, the ICE players were a little disappointed that they couldn't hold on, but they were pleased with the point against a very hard working Eastman team. There were many positives in this game, but the team agreed that their top level game would have been enough to win on this night...and unfortunately it simply wasn't quite there. We'll take the point and move on to face Westman on Sunday!
The last time Westman visited the ICE at Notre Dame Arena, the ICE pushed them to limit for 50 minutes, before allowing some late goals. Despite facing a very strong Wildcats team, who gave PV their first loss of the season the night before, the ICE were confident they could repeat their amazing performance from the last meeting, except this time keep it together for the full 60 minutes. The players spoke of intensity and work ethic prior to the game, and most importantly of "holding the rope"...a new team concept discussed on Saturday night about team unity. The first period was played at an amazing pace, with both teams holding the balance of play at different times. Despite a very good start for the ICE, Westman scored early on a small breakdown in the ICE defensive zone. Another breakdown, this time on a Wildcats' PP, gave the visitors a 2-0 lead after 1 period. Despite the deficit, the ICE lived up to their plan, as they pushed the Wildcats hard for the entire 20 minutes. The shots were very close through the first period, as Westman had 10 and the ICE had 7. The players and coaches were actually quite pleased with the period, other than the score, and they were all confident that this level of play would pay off. The ICE simply made 2 mistakes, and great teams...like Westman, make you pay. The second period was very similar to the first, as the pace of play was intense. Emily Barber got the ICE closer with a PP goal 3 minutes into the second period, assisted by Elizabeth Carter and Melissa Blaine. The ICE bench erupted and their confidence grew. The rest of the second period went back and forth, but Westman did manage to score to get their two goal lead back. Michelle Kerdes was very good in net in the second period, as she stopped 12 of the 13 Wildcats' shots. Down 3-1 after two periods is not usually a cause for optimism or excitement, but the ICE dressing room was buzzing. The players knew that their play through 40 minutes would be good enough to beat many teams, and that they were 2 shots away from tying this game. The players were all "holding the rope" today and they were hungry to challenge the Wildcats in the third period. All they needed was a quick start and solid team play for the final 20 minutes. So...just over 3 minutes into the period Maddy Neapew scored on the PP, from Jessica Bousquet (AP player from the Midget AA Northeast Predators) and Chantel Olson, to get the ICE within a goal at 3-2. The bench was alive once again and the players were feeding off of each other. The Wildcats knew they had to push back, as the ICE seemed to be gaining momentum. A few minutes after Neapew scored, Westman found a way to stretch the lead to 4-2, which took a little bit of the wind from the ICE sails...but they did not give up. The ICE battled hard to the finish, trying desperately to get back within a goal. Unfortunately, with 3 minutes to go the Wildcats scored twice, once on another PP, to kill any hopes of a comeback. The 6-2 final score does not do the ICE any justice, as they were in this game until the 57 minute mark. The room was silent afterwards and it was evident the team took the loss hard. But the silver lining was how well they have played against some of the best competition in the province. A bounce here or there and more belief in themselves will go a long way as the ICE continue to seek their identity. It is coming girls, hold the rope...and don't let go.
~Coach
Monday, December 17, 2012
A night out with the ICE...
As a change of pace, the post below was written by one of our assistant captains Ashley Kubic. Ashley describes what happened on Friday night, as the team invaded St. Vital for fun, photos, and food...
Our team decided we would do a little team bonding, and bowling won the vote. On December 14th, we headed to Dakota Bowling Lanes, where we learned that punctuality and/or navigation are not our strong points. Once everyone arrived, we had bundles of fun. Slushies were the choice drink for the night, and just a word of advice for Carley...Barber's calf ISN'T a bowling pin, even though it may look like one...
Everyone was decked out in Christmas sweaters and very interesting head pieces, for the multiple pictures that Coach Zack took, with multiple phones. Poor Zack had never seen so many phones, as she proclaimed "there are never this many phones in the box", referring to the dressing room phone box. While bowling, we learned so many new methods of throwing a bowling ball, and even though Meara wasn't there until later, she was still beating Kerds...somehow! A big congrats to Carter, who I'm pretty sure won...if your hockey career doesn't pan out, you could always take up professional bowling!!
Time seemed to fly by and after an hour we headed to St. Vital Centre for a team picture with Santa. The poor guy never knew what hit him! By then it was almost 8:30 and we were all starving, so we made our way to Boston Pizza. Supper was great and we learned a lot about Kit Kat's weird obsession with sloths (btw, love the pics, Kat). Overall the night was superb and brought the team closer together!
~#19 Ashley Kubic
Our team decided we would do a little team bonding, and bowling won the vote. On December 14th, we headed to Dakota Bowling Lanes, where we learned that punctuality and/or navigation are not our strong points. Once everyone arrived, we had bundles of fun. Slushies were the choice drink for the night, and just a word of advice for Carley...Barber's calf ISN'T a bowling pin, even though it may look like one...
Everyone was decked out in Christmas sweaters and very interesting head pieces, for the multiple pictures that Coach Zack took, with multiple phones. Poor Zack had never seen so many phones, as she proclaimed "there are never this many phones in the box", referring to the dressing room phone box. While bowling, we learned so many new methods of throwing a bowling ball, and even though Meara wasn't there until later, she was still beating Kerds...somehow! A big congrats to Carter, who I'm pretty sure won...if your hockey career doesn't pan out, you could always take up professional bowling!!
Time seemed to fly by and after an hour we headed to St. Vital Centre for a team picture with Santa. The poor guy never knew what hit him! By then it was almost 8:30 and we were all starving, so we made our way to Boston Pizza. Supper was great and we learned a lot about Kit Kat's weird obsession with sloths (btw, love the pics, Kat). Overall the night was superb and brought the team closer together!
~#19 Ashley Kubic
Monday, December 10, 2012
ICE can't solve last year's champs...
The Pembina Valley Hawks defeated the ICE for the 4th time in 4 games on Sunday, closing out the season series between the two teams. While the scoreline certainly doesn't flatter the ICE, there we long stretches in the game where the ICE went stride for stride with the league's top team. Through two periods, the Hawks had the edge on the scoreboard, but the ICE coaches tried to explain to the players how 34 of the 40 minutes were played at a very high level. The goals against through two periods were scored in clusters, where the ICE began to panic and the Hawks capitalized on most of their mistakes...as strong teams often do. Michelle Kerdes stood tall all game in net, and turned away countless Hawks chances. By the time the third period was 5 minutes old, the Hawks managed to dampen the spirits of the ICE, and the bench started to go quiet. Final score 8-1 Hawks.
The positive aspects of the game include:
Kerdes was very good in goal, despite what the scoreline says. Michelle Anderson added a goal to break the PV shutout. The ICE PK was very good, even against a very strong Hawks PP. Each one of the ICE's lines (forwards and Ds) had several moments where they owned the puck and the play, against a very deep Hawks line-up. Finally, the ICE welcomed back assistant captain Ashley Kubic, as she played in her first game since the trip to The Pas, due to an elbow injury.
After 4 straight games against the top 3 teams in the league, the ICE had a lot of confidence going into Sunday's game. A solid game against the Avros, followed by good performances against the Hawks and Wildcats, left the team confident but unsatisfied, as wins in those 3 games eluded them. Sunday's game seemed to take a toll on some of the players, as they try to find a way to make a difference. With 6 days to prepare for their next game against Eastman, the players know that this week will be about regaining some confidence and working very hard to bring the energy every day. This week = 2 practices, 1 off-ice session, and a fun team event on Friday!
~Coach
The positive aspects of the game include:
Kerdes was very good in goal, despite what the scoreline says. Michelle Anderson added a goal to break the PV shutout. The ICE PK was very good, even against a very strong Hawks PP. Each one of the ICE's lines (forwards and Ds) had several moments where they owned the puck and the play, against a very deep Hawks line-up. Finally, the ICE welcomed back assistant captain Ashley Kubic, as she played in her first game since the trip to The Pas, due to an elbow injury.
After 4 straight games against the top 3 teams in the league, the ICE had a lot of confidence going into Sunday's game. A solid game against the Avros, followed by good performances against the Hawks and Wildcats, left the team confident but unsatisfied, as wins in those 3 games eluded them. Sunday's game seemed to take a toll on some of the players, as they try to find a way to make a difference. With 6 days to prepare for their next game against Eastman, the players know that this week will be about regaining some confidence and working very hard to bring the energy every day. This week = 2 practices, 1 off-ice session, and a fun team event on Friday!
~Coach
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
ICE take on league's top 2 teams...
While the scores do not paint a rosy picture, the play of the Winnipeg ICE this weekend against the MFMHL's two top teams certainly illustrated that the future looks bright.
Still without two Ds, Tasia and Ashley were still injured, the ICE took on the Pembina Valley Hawks in Holland, MB on Friday night. Nicole Scofield, from the Bantam AA Northeast Predators played as an AP for the ICE. The team jumped out to an early lead, 15 seconds into the game, on a goal by Jessi Campbell. The quick start seemed to shock PV, but they roared back and found a way to even the game in the next 6 minutes. The good feelings of strong start to the 1st period by the ICE was dampened when PV scored twice in the final 5 minutes, one of which resulted from an odd deflection and crazy bounce off one of the ICE Ds. Satisfied by the first 15 minutes of the period (but not 20), the coaches urged the players not to be discouraged by the 3-1 deficit and to focus on scoring the next goal. The Hawks continued to pressure the ICE early in second period, and managed to make it 4-1, before Chantel Olson scored on a rebound to bring the ICE back within 2 goals. The Hawks capitalized, for the second time in the period, on the ICE's inability to get the puck out their defensive zone, to make the score 5-2 after two periods. The coaches and players were disappointed with the scoreline, but felt that the persistence and effort might pay off in the third. The ICE saved their best for the third period, as they took control of the third period and pushed PV to the limit for the final 20 minutes. Michelle Kerdes was very good in the third period, as PV did manage to get some good scoring chances. Although the dangerous PV PP did manage to score 1 goal, the Chatel Olson scored her 2nd goal of the game to make it 6-3. The game ended that way, but the ICE left Holland feeling pretty good about holding the balance of play for the final period against a very tough team.
Because of the sketchy weather, and long drive back to Winnipeg from Holland, the coaches asked the players to wait for everyone to leave together following the game. The team drove home in a convoy...and it turns out, it was a good thing they did. Jaime Bednarz, with Allie and Tasia in the car, was forced to avoid a rogue semi-trailer who dangerously pulled out in front of her. She managed to avoid a collision but found her way, safely, into the ditch. Several ICE parents/players/coaches stopped on the side of the highway to assess the situation. Thankfully, everyone involved was ok, despite being understandably shook-up. A big thanks to everyone who stopped, it shows how important everyone involved in this team really is. A huge thanks to Doug Roxburgh who was able, after a few good tries, to get the Bednarz's SUV high enough out of the ditch so that a few parents (thanks Mr. & Mrs Soupy) and coaches could eventually push it on to the highway. A scary moment was turned into roadside team bonding!
Showing signs of confidence, despite a loss to PV two nights prior, the ICE were excited to face the league's second ranked team, the Westman Wildcats. With a 9-1 loss to Westman in Hartney, as well as Tasia's injury in that same game, still fresh in their minds, the ICE vowed to get a quick start and push hard for a positive result. For the second straight game, the ICE came out very strong, scoring 90 seconds into the contest. Along with Nicole Scofield, who was playing in her second straight game as an AP player, Savannah Rennie, from the same Bantam AA team, opened the scoring for the ICE. Westman managed to tie it up 6 minutes later, but the ICE played tough and tried to keep the momentum. Kathleen Kosior was very good in net, stopping 15 of the 16 shots she faced, as the 1st period ended 1-1. At intermission the ICE players had a confident look in their eye. They knew that they only played 20 minutes, but felt that if they played like that for 40 more, they would have a good chance of winning this game. The team looked very focused and quite excited to play the second period. Westman poured it on in the second, but the ICE were equal to the task. The teams traded chances early in the second period, but Westman found a way to score twice in 22 seconds to take a 3-1 lead. Not phased by this tough turn of events, the ICE found back with a goal of their own to make it 3-2, and managed to re-ignite the energy on the bench again. Chantel Olson's goal, from Michelle Anderson, gave the ICE hope once again. The crazy second period continued to excite everyone in attendance, but Westman made it 4-2, less than a minute after Olson scored. Showing some extremely good character, the ICE still refused to go away, scoring on a PP to make it 4-3 on a great shot from the point by Melissa Blaine, assisted by Sara Reuther and Savannah Rennie. The teams kept up the pace for the rest of the period, but neither team scored again. What a period! What a game through two periods! These two periods were perhaps the best the ICE have played this year, and they were able to push a very good team to the limit. The players were more excited than happy at intermission, and they spoke of not being satisfied with only 40 minutes in the books. The ICE vowed to make it tough on Westman and vowed to keep doing the things they did in the first two periods. Unfortunately, Westman proved why they are one of the best teams in the province, perhaps in the country, by stepping up their play to another level in the third. Despite a valiant effort, the ICE could not hold off the Wildcats on this day. Westman ended up scoring 3 times in the 3rd to win 7-3.
The players took the loss pretty hard, although they really needed to feel proud of the way they played over 40 minutes. The players understand that it will never be ok to lose, but after a game like this one...so long as they could see how they can compete with the best when everyone buys in...then the future is bright for this team. What an exciting game it was...here's to lots more like that in the future. Be proud girls, but never satisfied...
~Coach
Still without two Ds, Tasia and Ashley were still injured, the ICE took on the Pembina Valley Hawks in Holland, MB on Friday night. Nicole Scofield, from the Bantam AA Northeast Predators played as an AP for the ICE. The team jumped out to an early lead, 15 seconds into the game, on a goal by Jessi Campbell. The quick start seemed to shock PV, but they roared back and found a way to even the game in the next 6 minutes. The good feelings of strong start to the 1st period by the ICE was dampened when PV scored twice in the final 5 minutes, one of which resulted from an odd deflection and crazy bounce off one of the ICE Ds. Satisfied by the first 15 minutes of the period (but not 20), the coaches urged the players not to be discouraged by the 3-1 deficit and to focus on scoring the next goal. The Hawks continued to pressure the ICE early in second period, and managed to make it 4-1, before Chantel Olson scored on a rebound to bring the ICE back within 2 goals. The Hawks capitalized, for the second time in the period, on the ICE's inability to get the puck out their defensive zone, to make the score 5-2 after two periods. The coaches and players were disappointed with the scoreline, but felt that the persistence and effort might pay off in the third. The ICE saved their best for the third period, as they took control of the third period and pushed PV to the limit for the final 20 minutes. Michelle Kerdes was very good in the third period, as PV did manage to get some good scoring chances. Although the dangerous PV PP did manage to score 1 goal, the Chatel Olson scored her 2nd goal of the game to make it 6-3. The game ended that way, but the ICE left Holland feeling pretty good about holding the balance of play for the final period against a very tough team.
Because of the sketchy weather, and long drive back to Winnipeg from Holland, the coaches asked the players to wait for everyone to leave together following the game. The team drove home in a convoy...and it turns out, it was a good thing they did. Jaime Bednarz, with Allie and Tasia in the car, was forced to avoid a rogue semi-trailer who dangerously pulled out in front of her. She managed to avoid a collision but found her way, safely, into the ditch. Several ICE parents/players/coaches stopped on the side of the highway to assess the situation. Thankfully, everyone involved was ok, despite being understandably shook-up. A big thanks to everyone who stopped, it shows how important everyone involved in this team really is. A huge thanks to Doug Roxburgh who was able, after a few good tries, to get the Bednarz's SUV high enough out of the ditch so that a few parents (thanks Mr. & Mrs Soupy) and coaches could eventually push it on to the highway. A scary moment was turned into roadside team bonding!
Showing signs of confidence, despite a loss to PV two nights prior, the ICE were excited to face the league's second ranked team, the Westman Wildcats. With a 9-1 loss to Westman in Hartney, as well as Tasia's injury in that same game, still fresh in their minds, the ICE vowed to get a quick start and push hard for a positive result. For the second straight game, the ICE came out very strong, scoring 90 seconds into the contest. Along with Nicole Scofield, who was playing in her second straight game as an AP player, Savannah Rennie, from the same Bantam AA team, opened the scoring for the ICE. Westman managed to tie it up 6 minutes later, but the ICE played tough and tried to keep the momentum. Kathleen Kosior was very good in net, stopping 15 of the 16 shots she faced, as the 1st period ended 1-1. At intermission the ICE players had a confident look in their eye. They knew that they only played 20 minutes, but felt that if they played like that for 40 more, they would have a good chance of winning this game. The team looked very focused and quite excited to play the second period. Westman poured it on in the second, but the ICE were equal to the task. The teams traded chances early in the second period, but Westman found a way to score twice in 22 seconds to take a 3-1 lead. Not phased by this tough turn of events, the ICE found back with a goal of their own to make it 3-2, and managed to re-ignite the energy on the bench again. Chantel Olson's goal, from Michelle Anderson, gave the ICE hope once again. The crazy second period continued to excite everyone in attendance, but Westman made it 4-2, less than a minute after Olson scored. Showing some extremely good character, the ICE still refused to go away, scoring on a PP to make it 4-3 on a great shot from the point by Melissa Blaine, assisted by Sara Reuther and Savannah Rennie. The teams kept up the pace for the rest of the period, but neither team scored again. What a period! What a game through two periods! These two periods were perhaps the best the ICE have played this year, and they were able to push a very good team to the limit. The players were more excited than happy at intermission, and they spoke of not being satisfied with only 40 minutes in the books. The ICE vowed to make it tough on Westman and vowed to keep doing the things they did in the first two periods. Unfortunately, Westman proved why they are one of the best teams in the province, perhaps in the country, by stepping up their play to another level in the third. Despite a valiant effort, the ICE could not hold off the Wildcats on this day. Westman ended up scoring 3 times in the 3rd to win 7-3.
The players took the loss pretty hard, although they really needed to feel proud of the way they played over 40 minutes. The players understand that it will never be ok to lose, but after a game like this one...so long as they could see how they can compete with the best when everyone buys in...then the future is bright for this team. What an exciting game it was...here's to lots more like that in the future. Be proud girls, but never satisfied...
~Coach
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
ICE fall to biggest to rival..
After a great weekend in The Pas, and a couple wins in the last 3 games, the ICE were excited to face off against their closest rivals...the Winnipeg Avros on Saturday. As usual when the two Winnipeg teams play, Keith Bodley Arena had a few more spectators than usual, and there was a little extra energy in the air. The ICE were confident that they could play 60 minutes of intense hockey, despite being without two of their Ds, Tasia Girden and Ashley Kubic did not dress due to injury. The game began with the Avros getting some early pressure, but the ICE held them off the scoreboard thanks in part to great goaltending by Kathleen Kosior. Eventually the Avros found a way to beat Kosior, but neither team managed to score again in the first period, giving the Avros a 1-0 lead. At intermission the ICE were not pleased with their level of compete, as the Avros held the balance of play in the first period, outshooting the ICE 16-6. The players spoke of patience and looked to pick up the pace and try to even the score early in the second period. Madison Neapew, Elizabeth Carter, and Emily Barber started the second period up front, and they did exactly what the team spoke of in the dressing room, as Barber scored 32 second into the second period to tie the game at 1. The ICE had new-found confidence in this period, but the Avros pressed hard to get the go ahead goal. With 5 minutes left in the second, the Avros impressive powerplay scored on a rush, taking back their 1 goal lead. The second period ended with the Avros up 2-1, despite some very impressive goaltending by Kathleen Kosior. At intermission the team looked back to the last game against the Avros, as that game had the same score after two periods. The ICE knew they couldn't allow this game to get away from them, as it did back in October. The teams started the third period with some back and forth action. The ICE bench sensed a break with a powerplay 4:30 into the period. Unfortunately for the ICE, the Avros proved once again why they are a team to watch in this league by scoring a shorthanded goal to make the score 3-1 and dampen the spirits on the ICE bench. Unlike that game in October, the ICE continued to claw and fight until the final buzzer, eventually hitting the post twice in the last two minutes of the game. The Avros held on for a 3-1 win, leaving the ICE to ponder what went wrong on this day.
A few missed opportunities cost the ICE on Saturday. Couple that with a less intense and lower energy played game for the ICE and it is no wonder they found the Avros tough to beat. But looking on the bright side allows the players to see that their best game on this day could have been enough to push the Avros to the limit and even possibly beat them. The coaches and players spoke of two things lacking from their play, ultimately costing them the game: Urgency and Desperation. The ICE will need to play with those terms in mind, as they face the Pembina Valley Hawks in Holland, MB on Friday night. Get those head's up girls, we'll get them yet!
~Coach
A few missed opportunities cost the ICE on Saturday. Couple that with a less intense and lower energy played game for the ICE and it is no wonder they found the Avros tough to beat. But looking on the bright side allows the players to see that their best game on this day could have been enough to push the Avros to the limit and even possibly beat them. The coaches and players spoke of two things lacking from their play, ultimately costing them the game: Urgency and Desperation. The ICE will need to play with those terms in mind, as they face the Pembina Valley Hawks in Holland, MB on Friday night. Get those head's up girls, we'll get them yet!
~Coach
Monday, November 19, 2012
After a win last Sunday, the ICE head to The Pas looking for 2 more...
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
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 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
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