Jr. Wolf Pack Midget Update

November 4, 2008

The Hartford U-16 Wolf Pack team traveled to Pomfret School for a Showcase tournament featuring teams from the Eastern Hockey Federation League, as well as some independent teams. The tournament was run very well, and had there were very competitive games all around.

On Saturday, the U-16 Wolf Pack started off the game strong against the New England Moose, controlling the play for the first few minutes.

The Wolf Pack quickly found themselves in penalty trouble, where the U-16 Pack's strong PK came in. The Moose carried the play but couldn't convert as the PK unit out worked the Moose PP.

As you all know, it is not just the PK unit that makes a great special teams. The U-16 received great play between the pipes by Sam Peluso.

The U-16's showed a lot of character as they weathered the first period storm and had a great second period. They were able to continue their efforts and got two third period goals to win the game 2-0.

Players of note in this game were:
          Sam Peluso- 36 saves
          Trevor Buchas- strong two way play
          Vaughn Geutens- strong play in our end
          Luke Frechette- game winning goal.

Sunday, the Wolf Pack faced the Boston Junior Eagles of the Eastern Hockey Federation.

The Eagles are 4-0 in their league and are a very skilled team. The Jr. Pack came out strong, taking the body, and generating scoring opportunities. The first period finished in a 2-2 tie.

The second period was hard fought, with both teams battling for puck possession and generating opportunities. Shayne O'Brien stood tall in the net for the U-16'ss with some very timely saves but just like after the first period the game remained tied at 2.

The Wolf Pack converted two power play opportunities, including a beautiful goal by Ken Mackiewicz set up by two great passes from Trevor Buchas and Paul Amarone, to open up a 4-2 lead.

The Eagles were able to get one back, but their efforts fell short. The game finished with a flurry of saves by O'Brien, and a 4-3 win for the Wolf Pack over a very strong team.

Players of note in this game were:
          Shayne O'Brien- 20 saves
          Ken Mackiewicz- 2 goals
          Andrew Kurjiaka- 2 assists
          Devon Fliss- strong play in our end, as well as many big hits.

This showcase showed, above all, just how high the level of play is in the Atlantic Hockey League.

The Wolf Pack represented the league very well, taking on two strong teams from other leagues, and leaving Pomfret with two wins.