The Novice RS team represented the Waxers in the
association's very first appearance in the NYHL this evening, worked really
hard, and earned a 3 - 0 win !!
Before the game there were some quiet players, and some boisterous ones. Some excitement, some nervousness, a couple of tears, and even a math competition (to keep the players distracted) broke out, and probably the same for some of the parents and coaches too! After a few minutes of disorganization before the game, the players hit the ice, albeit with one more left-handed stick than the team has left-shot players (players willingly swapped sticks during shift changes), and then they took off!
Our goalies worked hard, stayed focused, and with a tiny bit of luck posted a combined shut-out. Matthew T scored twice and was overheard demanding Coach Al hand over his Waxers ball-cap if he potted a third. Alex W showed why it is never a bad thing to go hard to the slot without the puck, as he knocked in a juicy rebound after a hard shot by James M. got the Weston goalie down and out. Even with a couple of key players missing with illness, the Defence positioned themselves well through most of the game. Some of the Forwards showed bursts of speed never before seen. A big High-5 was earned by our Part-time player, J.C., for coming on such short notice and making a huge impact in the game.
Despite the players having never played a full game before with on-the-fly changes and changing ends between periods, the transitions actually went much better than originally anticipated... although the coaches might have lost their voices convincing the players that now is a great time to check in on their water bottles!
Hats off to the Weston Silver team who showed they could pressure hard at times... once in the Second for a veeeeerrrrrry long time, but the Waxers showed their determination, and kept the puck out of the net.
The coaches are glad the players have started down the path of evidence-based confidence. The players have lots of work ahead of them, and know that the games will only get more spirited, but were still excited with the outcome, and proud of themselves and the Waxer logo on their jerseys.
... And based on the cheers, we think the parents were even more proud.