The Novice Cougars (Chris) took their act on the road the weekend of Jan. 11 and 12 and cruised down the 48 Highway to play the two respective Wawota teams. When the dust settled the boys had two more wins (16-6 Saturday and Ìý28-1 Sunday), and possibly an upset caretaker at the Wawota Forum, because the boys led by the Fab 4 shot out every last light in the building, figuratively speaking of course.
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GAME 1 (SAT., JAN. 11) 16-6 W
ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý This was a tough game to predict with it being the first road trip of the regular season and some minor coaching changes. Coaches Chris and Joey had to step away from the team (Not controversial, just prior engagements),Ìýwhich gave coach Jeff the reins, and an interim assistant coach and one lucky sports contributor Nathan a chance to watch the magic from ice level. Nathan has since retired from coaching on top and undefeated.Ìý
The boys didn't skip a beat Ìýjumping on the score sheet early and often, with Hayden "Hands and Hair" Puskas leading the surge and I’m sure getting a scoring chance for each and every inch of lettuce hanging out the back of his lid, and potting the majority of them.
The Cougars got into a bit of penalty trouble in the second half of the game with Owen "Top Cheese" Light going off for elbowing and "Hands and Hair" Puskas serving 2 for tripping, But the team stayed steady and killed off both and even managed to score a shorty.Ìý
The rink was cold at ice level but the boys played with the fire and intensity of 1,000 suns, and finished the game with the warmth of a win in their bellies.
GAME 2 (SAT., JAN. 12) 28-1 W
Sunday’s game was a bit lopsided with the boys cruising to a 28-1 win. The boys showed some great sportsmanship and Wawota playedÌýright to the final buzzer showing some real heart.Ìý
This was a great team win in all aspects. ÌýQuality shots, precision passing, and countless shot blocks to name just a few. The "Brickwall" Brown didn't see a ton of action, but stopped all but one shot that was sent his way.Ìý
Early in the second a crisp pass from Reed "The Rifle" Coffey to "Hands and Hair" Puskas leading to a goal finally got "The Rifle" into the points column with his first point of the campaign.
I figured in this Sunday matinee game I’d see the boys Stop Drop and Roll, because they were on fire.Ìý
It was a great weekend of hockey and the boys can go into this week of practice with a 3-0 record.
And on behalf of the team I’d like to send a special shout out to all the hockey mom and grandmas for all you do, you are all a very special part of this team and this season wouldn't be possible without you. Happy Hockey Mom’s Day.
