Jan 04, 2013 | tonyh | 817 views
Rocks Dominate But Come Up Short at Wayne Gretzky Tournament
The Major Atom A Shamrocks put on a fantastic display of team hockey at the recent Wayne Gretzky Classic tournament in Brantford held over the Christmas break.
The Rocks posted a perfect 4-0 victory in round-robin play with convincing wins over Owen Sound, Brantford and Tonowanda; and a nail-biter against the St. Thomas Jr Stars.
Unfortunately it was those same St. Thomas Jr. Stars that the Rocks faced in the semi-finals, ultimately losing a thrilling 1-0 affair.
The semi-final was a game that the Rocks controlled but unfortunately a series of posts and cross-bars kept the Rocks off the board and a late power-play goal by the Stars proved to be the difference.
Playing with only 3 defencemen throughout the tournament due to the absence of Brock Ahmet, the trio of Nick Billeci; Justin Sillanpaa-Knox; and Jake Vautour had to step up and play monster minutes. Billeci played remarkably well throughout the tournament ultimately earning MVP honours in the semi-final game as he consistently thwarted the Jr Stars attack with his quick first step and a very active stick. Great job Nick!!!
Up front Tate Garside gave his regular 100% effort in each game. Garside who is very adept at protecting the puck down low put constant pressure on the opposition throughout the tournament allowing the Rocks to play far more in the offensive zone. Fantastic job Tate!!!!
Other game MVPs included Daniel Turco; Ben Wilson; Jake Vautour and Karsen Campbell.
After final whistle interim Head Coach Matt Vautour gathered the boys around the bench before they left the ice to let them know how well they played and how proud he was of their efforts. The boys left the ice to a rousing ovation from their fans!!!!
As he was leaving the arena, Vautour had this to add....."Obviously I should be the Head Coach! I've forgotten more about hockey than Ahmet will ever know!!!! Look at my record!!! I'm the friggin' man!!!! Matt Matt Matt Matt Matt Matt Matt...."
Alright, he didn't say that....Welcome back Coach Terry! Now bring on New Hamburg!!!!!
The Rocks play the Huskies on Sunday afternoon in Hespeler....Go Rocks!!!!