Regrettably the Eels Premier team’s National Run came to an end on Monday afternoon as the Eels team were edged by the Rockets Hockey Club 3-2. It was an amazing season where we have seen these boys grow tremendously. They overcame much adversity with a number of injuries but nothing held them back. This team showed incredible resolve and continued to impress the college scouts throughout the season.
They were in 2nd place for much of the season focusing on the development of all of its players. Very little attention was placed on the standings or rankings. It was far more important of the coaching staff to develop all of his players echoed Premier Coach Frankie Scarpaci. If you focus on the standings you tend to lose sight of the big picture. Only a few players play and the remainder are not fully developed to the maximum potential.
The formula proved strong as the standings took care of themselves. When injuries happened to top 3 forwards we were able to slide other guys in and we did this without skipping a beat. The Eels forged forward and won the Florida Division Regular Season Divisional Title and then went on to Defeat the Madhatters for the top seed in the playoff round, thus advancing to Nationals. This has been 10+ years running for the Eels Premier team to advance to Nationals.
The Eels did very well at this season’s National run advancing once again to the semi finals. But they ran into a solid RHC team and a hot goalie. The Eels were excited with the huge OT win over the Charlotte Rush that enabled them to advance to the Semi Finals.This was one of the top games at the Nationals. The venue was packed standing room only. Wall to wall fans and college coaches present. The Eels will have another dozen players committed to college this season. In the end that is the reason why players come to the Eels.
There were and are no regrets. I cannot remember a group of boys from both the Premier and Elite teams that have showed unwavering commitment, determination and dedication to be the best they could be. These are all high character individuals who made us all very proud. We as owners, GM and coaches are honored to have had these boys be part of our family, our program and our teams.
