The Huntsville Junior C Otters came up a goal short in their pursuit to advance to the second round in the playoffs for the 2017-18 season. ”It was a hard fought and very close series,” said Coach Marc Gagnon.
The season was filled with ups and downs, new players added and players that moved on, “however, the year was filled with great lessons and learnings that will allow us to be a stronger team next season,” added Coach Brent Tomlinson. A shout out and acknowledgment was given to Michael Kruger #6 who played his last game as an Otter, as he has aged out. He was ‘Steady Eddy’ for us this year,” said Gagnon. “Good luck, Krug!”
This team has worked hard to blend each player’s strengths to make it happen on the ice and that is what they delivered. “I am typically pretty emotional at the end of seasons, however this time around I was just overwhelmed with pride in this group. These boys could not have given any more than they did, they left it all out on the ice, and we could not be more pleased with them,” said Coach Tomlinson.
It was also a special year for Coach Gagnon as he was able to coach his son Glen Gagnon #21. “It was a great and unforgettable experience.”
Tomlinson spoke about the genuine community support and the team’s fans during the season. “The fans and community support has been top notch all year and in the end, it’s truly them we want to win for.”
Coach Gagnon wanted to thank the Otters organization for all of the support on all of their decisions this season. “With that said, it will be a short break from the game and we will be back on the recruiting trail. There are a few key events we plan on attending this off season in order to bolster our roster for next season.”
Both Otters coaches have been working alongside one another for the past four years and are both looking forward to their fifth year together.
“We have something special and we’re hoping to bring some special moments to Junior hockey in Huntsville over the coming seasons,” said Tomlinson.
“I can say it was a special one for me. I feel fortunate as I couldn’t imagine anyone else I would rather do this with than him,” added Gagnon. “We’re already focusing on recruiting for next season and can’t wait to get back at it!”
They thank the Otters fans, staff, players and community for a great season. See you all in 2018-19!
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