The Hazelton Wolverines season has come to an end after falling 7-2 to the division leading, Prince Rupert Rampage on Saturday.
Despite the score, head coach Fred Hudson said the team never gave up.
“We got down four nothing right off the hop and had to try and fight our way back which was hard,” he said. “The guys worked hard and created lots of scoring chances but couldn’t get the puck in the net.”
The Wolverines were down 4-0 after one period and 5-0 after two before they managed two goals in the final period off power plays.
“Keegan Jack cashed in on a feed from Brandon Russel and Ryan Muldoe and defenceman, Michael Becker found the twine off a set up from Phil Morrison and Lou Parent Jr.”
“I am very pleased with the core group of guys that were dedicated that came out and practised and you could see a huge improvement in all those guys,” he explained. “I know we aren’t quite where we wanted to be but we are close and they competed hard.”
Despite the two win season, Hudson said there was only one thing that was disconcerting.
“For me the only disappointment from some of the guys was if we had more of a commitment it would been a lot nicer for everyone,” he said. “Next year, either [players] commit or we will find someone that will.”
As for the players who finished the season with their team, Hudson said he saw a big change in the players.
“If you look at the positives, there was a huge improvement in conditioning and skill and I think the core group should be really happy with what they accomplished,” he shared.
Hudson said he hopes to be back on the Hazelton bench next year and is grateful for the opportunities this year.
“I would like to thank all the executive and players,” he said in closing. “I pushed them hard but that was my job so I want to thank everybody for putting up with me and letting me do just that, my job.”
