Mar 06, 2016 | Kerri Catalan | 910 views
Mitchell Bantam Reps Heading to OMHA Finals!!!
After 7 games in 9 days the boys are back from their road trip and are resting an saoking in what they have accomplished so far.
The schedule has been grueling and tough on these young men, but during a tough series with the Ilderton Jets, the guys showed what they were made of. The series started in Mitchell with the Meteors taking game 1 in over time 4-3. In the away game in Ilderton the Jets returned the favor and beat Mitchell 4-3 in overtime. The series was even, but the games were dominated by Mitchell, physically the guys wore out the Jets. In game three back on home turf, the Ilderton Jets were walking into a perfect storm. The Meteors were fired up and running on all cylinders, they hammered the opposition 5-0.
While this series was in full swing, the Meteors also fit in time to play league games. Two against South Bruce, and one against Kincardine. All three games resulted in losses, and will affect them in the WOAA playoffs. During these games players were rested and line ups were moved around, testing different combinations, all the while it seemed that the team had their focus on bigger things.
On Saturday the semifinal series resumed in Ilderton. Speaking to Coach Schoonderwoerd pregame, he knew the Jets had all their players back and they would be rested and ready to play. As the Meteors exited the bus they carried themselves with a swagger that showed confidence and composure, focus was not a concern here. The game started and Ilderton took the early lead with hustle showed by the Jets. Mitchell replied by not hanging their heads, but lifting the pace of the game and taking control of the situation. The Meteors tied it just minutes later.
As the second period got started the Meteors displayed composure and hard work to get the lead to 3-1, the hustle and perseverance was paying off. Frustration was developing in Jets players, but the cheap shots didn't phase them, they just kept moving forward. In the dressing room during the second and third period, coach Schoonderwoerd was trying to keep the atmosphere calm and casual. As I tried to get some reactions from the players, everyone seemed to excited to speak, captain Dow said "Get out of the way, we've got work to do", the team rallied behind their captain and herded to the ice. The third period was an amazing display of hard work, composure and believing in each other. The game ended 3-1, and thus putting the team into the OMHA final. During the post game interview, it was the first time the coach was smiling and said " this bunch of guys push so hard, you know they leave it all on the ice, they don't sit on the lead they played hockey at a different level tonight and deserve this," reaching for a Kleenex ,"I'm just very proud right now". This final will be set up in the next couple days with Bancroft. The Bantam Reps and the coaching staff would like to thank all the families and fans that travel to support these young men. Keep a close watch on the website for updates on the OMHA Final Series.
Thanks Again
Go Mitchell Go