Apr 02, 2013 | SGraham | 1742 views
Atom AE Otters are OMHA Champions
Several months ago, Coaches Farnsworth and Mattice held a meeting for the parents. They felt that this group of boys could win the OMHA title. The parents and kids were all on board to play hockey into the spring!! On a sunny day this past Saturday, the Atom AE Otters fulfilled their goal and raised the cup. In a season that started over 7 months ago, this group of kids has evolved into the epitome of a TEAM.
From the back end, goalies Owen Buczek and Cole Frasier provided exactly what a team needs…solid tending. Cole Frasier is a relative newcomer to the keeper of the twine position but every parent and player was impressed to watch his dedication and improvement this year. Watch out for this butterfly goalie in the future!!. Owen Buczek was one thing this year…consistent. With a lightning quick glove and a cool and calm attitude, Owen had a great playoff run.
The Dmen for the Otters learned something important this season. Look behind you and you will see your best friend: Owen or Cole. Keep players and the puck away from best friend!! They did a great job with both. As a 5 man unit, they were very strong in the playoffs. Our opponents were consistently on the P.P and they soon found themselves repeatedly skating back to retrieve the puck. Great job to Jake Hildebrandt , Cole Punchard, Alan East, Tysen Robb and Jack Lockwood.
Our forwards consisted of Cooper Haynes, Brayden Holman,Taylor Cottrill, Cole Patey, Kyle Mattice, Nathan Markle and Wes Farnsworth . Each forward player brought with them an area that they excelled in individually. When these skills were morphed into 1 strong offensive threat, they were very hard to defend. Some of the teams the Otters played were very well coached. In the end though, the forwards used their speed, determination and positioning to its peak level and claimed victory.
Jason Farnsworth and Andy Mattice are hockey men. They have played the game, they understand the game and they deliver on their word.
With this group, each individual was coached in the way the coaches thought best . A pat on the back one game, a 5 minute full speed skate the next practice.
When coaches can put together individual personalities and skills, they can create champions. Its safe to say, Farnsworth and Mattice did just that.
To the manager, Shara Graham. Fantastic job this year. It’s a tough job and you excelled.
Lastly to the parents and players. Some of the kids and parents were “newcomers” to the group this year . It didn’t take long before both the parents and kids began to establish strong ties and friendship. Knowing this group, those ties will exist for many years. Truly, an amazing experience and what a ride!!!!