Sep 12, 2011 | K. Matthews | 878 views
The Minor Bantam Clippers played this past weekend in the Vaughan early bird tournament to kick off the 2011-12 season, facing the daunting task of jumping from A level competition directly into the AA shark tank.
The double A game is played a little bigger, faster and stronger and the boys showed they have the will and ability to compete. Despite the opening game jitters, and being short a few on the bench, they gave it everything they had and never once gave up during the three pool games, playing tough to the very end.
Effort came from everyone, returning and new players alike. The close losses to the Eagles, Caledon (who were OMHA finalists last year) and Markham were a tribute to a gritty and never say die effort. Each of the three games provided some bright moments, proving that the MBAA Clippers will be competitive playing at this level.
The team dished out hits, played tough, blocked shots, kept the turnovers down compared to last year, and the stats showed a big improvement in faceoffs by the time the Clippers played game three. Game three also showed an impressive offensive push and some edge in the third period of game three.
While the team didn't take its first win of the season, all in all this experience provided a positive place to build from, now knowing much hard work will be needed to develop and hone skills and game play at the AA level.
Regular season play starts against Aurora on September 14, and the home opener against the formidable Barrie Colts is Saturday, September 17. Check our calendar for details. Come cheer on your Clippers!
