Huskies Have Playoffs in Sight

Despite a valiant effort against Eastern divisional leaders Kitchener in the Alliance Playdown quarter finals, the best-of-five series was a clean sweep by the opposition in a showcase of competing talent and battling wills.  With a most spirited effort especially at both away games and at times with a conviction that defeat of this season-long rival was within reach, Hamilton delivered as passionately as they could and kept the Rangers cautious of any over-confidence.  Nonetheless, the heartbreaking outcome of the series left the Huskies reflecting on what lays ahead – a new approach to TWO new opponents in the upcoming Playoff round-robin format as they play a home-at-home series against both Sun-County and Huron-Perth, where only one team will see advancement into the finals to meet their match against the winner of the Brantford, Chatham-Kent and London series.  As our Huskies work diligently and persistently at practices this week, they continue to be supported and encouraged by a dedicated fan base that is focused on the positives and believes that the best may yet be to come.

Hamilton Huskies 3 Kitchener Rangers 4
Kitchener Rangers 7 Hamilton Huskies 2
Hamilton Huskies 2 Kitchener Rangers 5

Huskies Headed to Alliance Playdowns

Despite their loss against the top ranked Eastern division contingent from Kitchener, Hamilton highlighted their trademark relentlessness today as they came back from a three goal deficit to challenge the Rangers during their last game of the regular season.  In what was likely a preview of quarter final action in the upcoming Alliance Playdowns, the Huskies will regroup over the days to come to bring together a strategy born from over 20 weeks of learning, practicing, thinking, and dreaming the game that will eventually reward the most perseverant of all.  Together, their appetite, excitement and anticipation will fuel a passion where past scores no longer matter, as the page is turned and a clean slate gives way to a fresh start that is guaranteed to unite the most faithful fans, the most determined players, and the most believing coaches.  Posting a commendable 15-13-4 record and finishing 4^th in their division upon completion of their regular season, the Huskies have not disappointed in their rookie AAA year, and while it is often too easy to critique a play on any given day, the commitment by players and coaches was never in question but rather is the reason for this team’s advancement toward an opportunity that many others have not succeeded in capturing.

Hamilton Huskies 3 Kitchener Rangers 5

Huskies Steal Home

No pun intended here as the Huskies stole two invaluable points on home ice during their last regular season game at Chedoke’s faithful venue where family and friends gathered to watch the team determine their own fate as they faced Brantford in a confrontation that would ultimately brush the final stroke on the canvas of Hamilton’s well-drawn season.  While the Huskies did open the scoring, an all too familiar feeling of uneasiness kept the crowd on their toes as they cheered during the ping-pong exchange of goals that through physical play and unprecedented opportunities had the home team in possession of a slight advantage.  Clean breakaways, purposeful passing and sharp shooting were but a few of the tools used against the 99ers to offset several man-deficiencies, while the net-minding was as equally efficient.  A scoreless nail-biter of a third period concluded a two-game winning streak which provided the Huskies with a victory that temporarily places them in fourth in the Western standings, but more importantly secures them tickets to the show in the prestigious Alliance Playdowns to begin later this month.
Brantford 99ers 2 Hamilton Huskies 3

Huskies Packed With Faith

Despite a heartbreaking home loss against Eastern division leaders Waterloo that saw Hamilton abandon costly points in the final seconds of the game, the Huskies authoritatively redeemed themselves in Cambridge today against their season-long nemesis. Regardless of Hamilton spending the majority of the game short-changed and short-handed by the likes of at times controversial officiating, their pure Husky-like doggedness persevered through the disadvantages and delivered a nail-biter that would end the season-series against the Hawks with nothing tighter than an equal record in wins, GF and GA for both teams, where a single goal was the deciding factor in each of their four encounters. The now 4^th place Huskies continue to play with never-ending faith for four remaining available points that, along with other results in their division, will determine their final fate in the post-season.

Hamilton Huskies 4 Cambridge Hawks 3

Huskies Have Their Work Cut Out

With less than a handful of games left in regular season play, Hamilton has their work cut out for them and must battle for much needed points in the East as they vie for a Playdown spot which may be granted as late as the last puck drop in less than two weeks.  Huskies, Hawks and 99ers are each capable of a surprising finish but cannot afford the loss of any valuable points, especially in head-to-head games that can shift the standings with the slightest advantage in anyone’s favour as 5^th place in the East remains a Playdown Wild Card possibility that nobody will easily surrender to.

Hamilton Huskies 4 Kitchener Rangers 6

Huskies Redifine Teamwork

The Huskies redefined teamwork today as they delivered a stellar performance during one of the fastest games of late that demonstrated their unwavering determination in the pursuit of excellence. Together with new formations and a refreshing approach, they united as one collaborative entity to take on Elgin-Middlesex at home. After two scoreless periods and the lingering loss this opponent one month ago, the Huskies persisted and eventually equated this regular season series against the Chiefs with a sudden goal that raised the roof. Hamilton's puck movement and head's-up foresight were able to up their offensive plays while defensively showcasing their game sense and solid net-minding. Even as they fought off the only two penalties of the game, a second goal would eventually release the tension in the air at Chedoke while underlining Hamilton’s authority on the ice.
To suggested that any single player today made the difference would be to underestimate the power that these boys have in their possession when they choose to play as a team with focus on a common objective. Not only were they winners against the Western divisional leaders, but they did so by claiming a shutout victory as they say goodbye to their winless streak just as their favourite sport resumes televised action nationwide.
Elgin-Middlesex 0 Hamilton Huskies 2

Huskies Back to the Drawing Board

As a January cold spell is cast upon us, so too do the Huskies look to put a freeze on their latest low-scoring streak which has denied them any advancement in the standings since the turn of the New Year.  With only one win in their last 9 league games, the Huskies go back to the drawing board to try and better identify and further develop the key ingredients of success as they begin their last stretch around the bend toward the post-season.  With the drop of a grenade have exploded new line formations, fresh tactics and positive attitudes that hope to re-awaken the potential that this team displayed at the beginning of the season.  There is promise and hope that by combining the talent, the desire and the drive to become the best that they can be, the 9AAAs have the ability to deliver a closing act that could reward them with a position that prolongs their enjoyment of the game well into the playoffs.  However, their work is cut out for them, as they face remaining teams in the East that are ultimately battling for the same opportunity.  With a possible 12 points at stake, the only advantage Hamilton has is the more games in hand as every point, every game, and every minute spent on the frozen water has the team strategizing, calculating and forecasting their final fate.  One game at a time, the Huskies look to capture deciding points that could still launch them into the Playdowns as an Eastern entry or even as a high-ranked 5^th place crossover team against the West.  And finally, after a long-anticipated wait, timing could not be more fitting as NHL action regains the ice, inspiring this generation of young players with their favourite heroes and aspiring plays, and re-awakening the most captivating emotion within each of them as the passion for hockey across the nation as well as in our own rinks soars once more.
Huron-Perth Lakers 2 Hamilton Huskies 0
Hamilton Huskies 0 Waterloo Wolves 5
Cambridge Hawks 2 Hamilton Huskies 1
Hamilton Huskies 1 Huron-Perth Lakers 6

Huskies Gain Respect at Elite Tourney

During a typical festive break from league play, the Hamilton Huskies 9AAAs participated in a holiday tourney that would see the likes of top teams in Ontario and even the US. The Richard Bell Memorial Tournament in Oakville attracted 170 teams to play in over 400 games in all divisions ranging from AE to AAA levels, whereby the Huskies competed in a grouping of 18 teams, and battled through the toughest division that would eventually advance three of the eight finalists and crown the tournament champions. With each team and each player competing to the maximum of their potential, it was a showdown that all in attendance enjoyed.
After a solid opening win but a slight shortfall in the second game of day one, the Huskies had their work cut out for them on day two as they faced two strong G-teams, one of which is top ranked and the second which they have come close to defeating in former tournament play. Most assumed that the glass was lined with fans in attendance to watch Toronto, but in was the Huskies who raised eyebrows that morning as they held off the Marlies during two scoreless periods by delivering a stellar performance full of grit and tenacity that was unexpected to only the unfamiliar faces. Although an empty-netter would defeat Hamilton’s final effort, the game was the closest one delivered to the Toronto team while equally breaking their high-scoring shutout record.
In an established rivalry between the Huskies and the Senators, it was Hamilton who opened the scoring, creating excitement for the balance of the game, performing solidly once more, though unfortunately Mississauga would eventually overtake them in the final minute of the third.
Although Hamilton may have benefitted from lighting the lamp a few more times during this tournament, they did not allow many goals either, and their losses were close and well battled ones. Both net-minders saw more rubber than the 401, while offensive and defensive units stood on their heads to challenge the odds. In the end, however, what may be taken from this experience is the dignity and pride with which the Huskies represented themselves against some tough opposition in a division that both challenged them as well as demonstrated that they belong in what some might otherwise perceive to be an impenetrable AAA zone. While conceding to a disappointing early dismissal from the competition, Hamilton revealed a team and a game that earned the respect of others as even after their departure, the hallways echoed with praise and an abundance of complementary superlatives that look forward to future encounters.
Brampton 45s 1 Hamilton Huskies 5
Hamilton Huskies 1 Markham Waxers 4
Hamilton Huskies 1 Toronto Marlies 3
Mississauga Senators 2 Hamilton Huskies 1

Huskies Ready to Celebrate

Following an uncharacteristic loss to the Kitchener Rangers on hump day earlier this week, the Huskies erased their 3-game losing streak and wrapped up their calendar year of league play with a convincing victory in London as they took on the Knights with daunting persistence and unwavering determination.  Battling several man deficiencies and protective of their defensive zone as they supported their attentive net-minder, the team’s offensive core equally contributed by doubling their already noteworthy goal tally in the final period of a rare 45-minute game.  This collaborative effort today was representative of Hamilton’s true capabilities when they play together as a team with puck possession and movement, and certainly the prescription for what was needed to regain league momentum and close off 2012 with an uplifting result.  The 9AAAs climb back up to 3^rd in the East, but more importantly are looking forward to nice holiday break with family and friends as they conclude their triumphant day and fundraising efforts at Copps Coliseum tonight during an AHL Hamilton Bulldogs game as a treat!  Stay tuned, and join us next week for an exciting holiday tournament in Oakville that promises to have you on the edge of your seats!
Kitchener Rangers 5 Hamilton Huskies 0
Hamilton Huskies 8 London Jr. Knights 1

Huskies Struggle Through Pointless Weekend

It was the not best two-day showing for the 9AAAs this weekend, as they played host to Cambridge on Saturday’s home ice time while travelling to Elgin-Middlesex for their first meeting against the Chiefs this season.  Determination was not what lacked as the Huskies came out energetic as usual against the Hawks, but some would perhaps quote a shortage of teamwork as a slight factor in the some of the deficiencies that would eventually lead to a perplexing result. 
A promising start and opening goal against the Chiefs suggested a competitive contest on deck, where intelligent plays were made and Husky heart was put into every check and battle along the boards.  But what denied Hamilton of opportunities this time around was possibly a slight absence of solidarity and alertness between plays that may have resolved several opportune chances with a more favourable outcome. 
It is never easy to write about a loss, let alone two, so the experience consequently inspires the following quote:  “Coming together is only the beginning; keeping together is progress; but working together is success.  There is NO limit to what can be accomplished when you work together as a team, when you don’t care who gets the credit, and when you play for what’s on the front of your jersey not for what’s on the back.”  The 9AAAs look forward to another busy week of hockey and hard work, as they conclude their City Kidz gift-giving movement and get through the last week of school in anticipation of a family-oriented break and exciting holiday tournament play.
Cambridge Hawks 2 Hamilton Huskies 1
Hamilton Huskies 1 Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs 8

Huskies Deny Rangers

In anticipation of a competitive divisional rivalry in the first seasonal meeting between both teams, Hamilton hosted well-ranked Kitchener at Chedoke today and delivered exactly what was expected.  A convincing opening period by the Huskies set the tone for a fast-paced exchange that would see the Huskies outplay their opposition as they put together all aspects of the required teamwork, producing an incontestable relentlessness that outshot the Rangers doubly.  There was no disputing the talent on display and the hunger that motivated the home team, eventually denying their adversary with a shutout while earning advancement to 2^nd place in their division.
Kitchener Rangers 0 Hamilton Huskies 0

Huskies Nothing Short of Dominating

The 9AAAs attacked home ice today with renewed focus as they hosted Chatham-Kent after a tightly exchanged game only two weeks ago.  Home team Huskies lit the lamp early with two solid goals that began a tally of shots against an often defeated Cyclone’s net-minder.  Hamilton’s tenacity absolutely dominated the game, denying any opportunity for their opposition to gain control in the offensive zone, while capitalizing on shots of their own.  Perhaps it was their white disguise today, or a slightly different format as they unexpectedly made the most of their short-handed situations, but it was the Huskies who dictated today’s chapter, and while an uneventful third on the scoreboard, they convincingly persevered to deny the Cyclones any chance of blemishing an almost perfect game.
Chatham-Kent Cyclones 1 Hamilton Huskies 7

Huskies Bewildered in Brantford

In a rare mid-week game, the Huskies played at Gretzky centre in anticipation of another rough game against the 99ers, whose recent exhibition game victory may have suggested a fragile advantage.  Nonetheless, it was the Huskies who drew first blood as they opened strongly with a great passing play opportunity.  It may be nearing the holiday season, but unfortunately the scoreboard lit up like a Christmas tree, mostly against the Huskies, who twice during the game had three players in the box.  Even the host team, recipients of several infraction calls as well, were somewhat surprised by the officiating that both broke the game flow as well as took away from the fans’ enjoyment, while leaving many players and coaches puzzled beyond understanding.  It was an empty netter that sealed the deal in the closing minute, but the Huskies look to come back strong this weekend with two games on home ice.
Hamilton Huskies 2 Brantford 99ers 4

Huskies Proud Finalist in Reebok Classic

The 2003 Huskies played an intensive schedule this weekend at the 2012 Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs Reebok Classic, where nine divisions and 110 teams were listed to compete at ten different venues across the city of Hamilton. In the smallest of all participating divisions, the Huskies battled through five games of round robin play in two days, and while most games were decided by a single goal, the Huskies’ tournament streak improved as the tournament went on, eventually earning them a well-deserved spot in the finals on day three. In a competitive match-up and second tourney encounter between both finalists, Hamilton persevered through the opening period to maintain an even score, but the second saw the Mississauga Senators take over a lead that through the remainder of the game could not be overtaken. Nonetheless, the 9AAA Huskies competed confidently and stood out this weekend as the sole finalists from their organization, proving to each opponent as well as to the countless fans in attendance that their heart is a big as might, while participating with sportsmanship and promise as they represented their team proudly in their local community

Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs 1 Hamilton Huskies 2

Hamilton Huskies 0 Mississauga Senators 6

Hamilton Huskies 2 Peterborough Petes 2

Hamilton Huskies 5 South Central Coyotes 4

Brampton 45s 3 Hamilton Huskies 4

Hamilton Huskies 2 Mississauga Senators 4

 

Huskies Sweep the West Gangnam Style

The Huskies were westbound this weekend for a busy schedule, taking on three teams from the Western division in two days of frigid winter weather.  While their first opponent in Sun County held the lead for most of the game, Hamilton never let up and delivered a comeback that would eventually reverse the outcome of the game.  It was a defenseman’s walk-in on a second similar attempt that provided the game winner and momentum needed to finish strongly against the Panthers.
Hamilton Huskies 6 Sun County Panthers 3

Readying themselves to the engaging beat of their newly adopted dressing room tune, it would take only one goal per period for the Huskies to overpower the Spitfires “Gangnam Style” and garnish their victory with a beauty from the final face-off to defeat Windsor and record their first well-earned shutout of the regular season.
Hamilton Huskies 4 Windsor Spitfires 0

In a ping pong match that had the crowd on the edge of their seats all game, Chatham-Kent and Hamilton exchanged goals for the duration of the competition as one by one the back of the net was peppered at both ends of the ice.  It was only in the final period that the Huskies took the lead for the first time, still battling a relentless Cyclones opposition, and while the officiating appeared not in their favour, the Huskies persevered to eventually drive home the winner and secure the maximum points during their weekend road trip to the West.
Hamilton Huskies 6 Chatham-Kent Cyclones 5

Huskies Back on the Double-U

After a tough couple of games against Waterloo, Huskies have a comeback performance on home ice as they played host to the Lambton Jr. Sting, where two early goals in the opening period seemed to set the tone for the rest of the afternoon.  While a couple of hat-tricks may have been recorded on the game sheet, it was most definitely a complete team effort on the ice as passing and collaborate play-making set up a regular-season high in GF in a single game for the Huskies, capping off their victory with a short-handed effort in the final minute of play.  This momentum should prove uplifting as Hamilton looks to battle for 6 available points heading into next weekend’s busy road trip to the West.
Lambton Jr. Sting 2 Hamilton Huskies 8

Huskies Remain Positive Despite Pointless Weekend

Pillers Ice Haus was the venue for this afternoon’s game at Waterloo’s scenic Rim Park, where the Huskies took on the Wolves in the home-at-home weekend series that delivered on its promise to be exciting.  Hot off their victory the day before, Waterloo tallied two goals in as many periods while the Huskies tried hard to create productive momentum.  Nonetheless, their respectful efforts over the two-day schedule, including net-minding and overall energy, were recognized as valiant by their coaches and fans, and still ended on an uplifting note as they came millimeters shy of adding to a blue-liner’s earlier infiltration, almost tying the current East Division leaders.
Hamilton Huskies 1 Waterloo Wolves 2

Huskies Record First Loss of Regular Season

Host to Waterloo this afternoon, Hamilton delivered a commanding opening period that had the crowd at its feet after two respectful goals from the same front line offensive core bewildered the opposition.  But promptly and somehow without warning, the Wolves’ hunger became insatiable as they challenged the now flatfooted Huskies’, quenching their appetite with four unanswered goals which culminated in the third as they overtook the lead and defeated the home team.  “Tomorrow is a new day”, the team concurred, leaving the arena with their first loss of the regular season, but also with a yearning for redemption in this home-at-home weekend.
Waterloo Wolves 4 Hamilton Huskies 2

Huskies Complete 3-Point Weekend

In two fast-paced games to start the month of November, the Huskies came out with strong opening periods where an aggressive offense together with effective vision and pass completion from the defensive and neutral zones gave them the advantage on many occasions.  Hamilton squeezed in a win against Huron-Perth with some well-picked corners while settling for a tie in Brantford as a late give-away unfortunately took them by surprise.  The Huskies continue their admirable efforts at every outing, while their fans continue to encourage them to capitalize on opportunities to put themselves in a better position moving into the final period of their games.
Huron Perth Lakers 2 Hamilton Huskies 3
Hamilton Huskies 3 Brantford 99ers 3

Huskies Announce Fundraising Initiative

Together with City Kidz and Hamilton Food Share, the 2003 Hamilton Huskies look to join these inspirational organizations on their mission to help others while experiencing an event that will change the lives of many, including hopefully their own. By raising funds, wrapping toys and delivering the gift of Christmas, the 9AAAs hope to inspire and make a difference for numerous Hamiltonians this holiday season. Look for more news to come in the weeks ahead, as this team discovers the wealth of sympathy and compassion while working for and sharing with the less fortunate in their community.

Huskies Earn Two In Last Minute Effort

The Huskies outworked their recent tournament nemesis tonight in Cambridge, as they lead the Hawks by two goals after the opening act.  Although a tied game after two penalty-ridden periods, Hamilton definitely set the tone of the game, battling in their corners and chasing the puck while providing support around their crease.  It was only in the last minute of play that the game winning goal came from a sharp angle to complete the Huskies’ mission of the evening by stealing the victory that leaves them still undefeated.
Hamilton Huskies 3 Cambridge Hawks 2

Huskies Leave Lambton Feeling the Sting

As the Huskies travelled in style by coach to Sarnia, they journeyed along a beautiful sun-kissed stretch of landscape, heading West to face Lambton for the first time this season. It took only seconds from puck drop for Hamilton to deliver in the OHL-sized RBC centre as they executed a flawless opening attack.  With puck possession in their favour for most of the game, a sometimes scattered Hamilton team nonetheless persevered today.  While falling victim to several penalties, the Huskies combined a strong power play performance with better utilization of their blue-liners, proving that a positive contrast in collaboration from the day prior would result in increased puck movement and capitalization of chances, as sharp-angle rebounds and a bulleting slap shot from the point were but a few of several highlights in the game. Even fighting off a two-man disadvantage, one by one Hamilton tallied their goals in their highest scoring game in league play yet, as they rode home with smiles on their faces not only from the victory but as equally from the experience that left them feeling like pros.
Hamilton Huskies 7 Lambton Jr. Sting 4

Huskies a Little Too Chivalrous Against Knights

During their usual Saturday afternoon contest on home turf, the Huskies hit the ice to the beat of their adopted mantra to face London for the first time this season. Scoreless throughout the opening period, a rush from the red line born from a defensive initiative gave the Huskies the opening goal as the opposition was skillfully deked. Although a tying dribbler later defeated the home team's net minder, Hamilton certainly had their chances to advance, leaving their faithful fans craving of perhaps more collaborative teamwork and more ownership of the puck.  Hamilton added only a single point to their total, but remain undefeated in regular league play.
London Jr. Knights 1 Hamilton Huskies 1

Huskies Remain Undefeated

After conceding a two goal lead to Huron-Perth, a power play effort from the Huskies’ offense on a sharp angle that beat the Laker keeper’s blocker side gave Hamilton the ice-breaker they needed to stir up what otherwise felt like a quiet and slow-paced game at Allman Memorial Arena in Stratford.  The Huskies went on to pursue their well-known efforts, clinging on to their lossless streak as they added two more goals in the final period to remain undefeated so far this season.
Hamilton Huskies 3 Huron-Perth Lakers 3

Huskies' Late Effort Prevails

Hamilton played host to Windsor today on a cold October afternoon.  It was not until two scoreless periods and twenty-five minutes had elapsed that a Husky power play effort saw a lucky bounce that rewarded them with the first goal of the game.  With a solid performance between the pipes on both ends of the ice, the chances were there to be had but difficult to exploit.  Unfortunately taking advantage of a blue-liner’s unintended fumble, the Western Division Spitfires twice riposted to tie the game up in the third period.  Nevertheless, a tardy but opportune emergence of the offensive unit in the closing minutes of the game reclaimed the lead while sealing the deal on an empty-netter, maintaining the Huskies’ successful streak on home ice.
Windsor Spitfires 2 Hamilton Huskies 4

Huskies Thankfull for a Great Weekend

It was not for lack of effort today that the Huskies surrendered yet another game to their tournament nemesis from Cambridge, but the puck was simply not in their corner this long weekend as even a decent attempt this morning did not suffice to prolong their hopes to advance.  Nonetheless, being one of only two teams advancing to the semi-finals in this host tournament, the Huskies thrilled the home crowd with their efforts, while silent rumblings in the stands and public recognition by many in attendance indicate that Hamilton’s 9AAAs are a talented group full of promise as the season continues to unfold.
Hamilton Huskies 0 Cambridge Hawks 3

Huskies Prey for Hawks

On the heels of yesterday’s loss, Sunday’s matchup against Cambridge was expected to be a competitive one between Hamilton and one of it’s regular league opponents, but the Huskies were unable to regroup against the Hawks who capitalized on key opportunities that gave them the advantage during mostof the game.  Although a late goal boosted the team with a higher energy level, the effort came too late as the Huskies fell prey to their opposition in their final round robin game.

Cambridge Hawks 5 Hamilton Huskies 2

Huskies' Bark Bigger than Bulldogs' Bite

Opening night at the Tim Hortons AAA International Tournament, both long-time Hamilton hockey rivals went head to head at Chedoke Arena tonight to the beat of the hometown pulse as they met for the first of several  games with lineup that promises to be exciting.  With numerous fans and countless cheers as the Huskies hit the ice, the host team did not disappoint, delivering what most believed to be a valiant effort after a full day of school, earning themselves an A for effort while keeping the Bulldogs within armlength of any attack.  Although only a single goal made the difference as the final buzzer sounded, the victory was a well-earned one that is hoped to boost the team’s energy level heading into a busy Thanksgiving weekend.
Hamilton Huskies 2 Hamilton Bulldogs 1

Huskies Protect Their House

Hamilton played at home for the second time in as many games today, facing what appeared to be a daunting opponent in the Sun County’s Panthers.  However, Hamilton’s quick draw opened the scoring thanks to agile manoeuvring as well as to a valiant short-handed effort from the defense.  While there were more penalties drawn by both teams in the second than actual game time itself, the scoreless period saw a rise in intensity and tension as the puck slid across both creases countless times but fell just short of finding the back of the net.  Although the opposition managed to capitalize on a chance opportunity in the final period, the Huskies’ net-minder proved worthy of the numerous cheers from the crowd, while his teammates doubled their tally to secure the win, including one on a well-executed power play.  Battling at one point a two-man disadvantage, Hamilton protected their house successfully for the second consecutive time, with a rise to the occasion that left the Panthers with but a meow.

Sun County Panthers 2 Hamilton Huskies 4

Huskies' Spirit Undeniable

The Minor Atom AAAs hosted their home opener today against Brantford who had previously vanquished them in preseason play.  While the arena was packed with countless fans, it was half way through the opening period that those very fans jumped out of their seats as the home team lit the lamp for the first Hamilton goal. Many close chances ensued as the Huskies kept possession and dominated the game for the most part. It would seem that their effectiveness and recent hard work at practices led them to a solid start as they racked up two more in the second period, including one just as the buzzer would have sounded. Maintaining their composure against the 99ers in the third, the home team recorded their first victory of the regular season.
But it is on Huskies Day, as they donned black armbands over their red home jerseys, that the 2003 AAAs showed their winning attitude and boundless spirit by recognizing and respectfully honouring long-time dedicated Hamilton Huskies volunteer Mr. Wayne Constant, as well as by overflowing their food drive baskets for food banks in the area.
Brantford 99ers 1 Hamilton Huskies 4

 

 

2003 Huskies Star-Struck by NHLer

Swedish native and two-time Stanley Cup finalist Daniel Alfredsson was kind enough to accept an invitation to chat with the 2003 Huskies as they concluded the Pat Larock Memorial tournament September 14-16 weekend in Peterborough. The 16-season Ottawa Senator and NHL superstar, whose own 2003 son was participating in the same tourney, took the Huskies by surprise as he concluded their post-game debrief with a few handshakes, words of advice, and a snapshot that the boys will likely never forget! THANK YOU!!

Huskies' Kawartha Trip Solidifies Team

In their second per-season tournament in as many weekends, the Hamilton Huskies took the long but scenic country drive to Peterborough to face a minimum of four opponents in a competition where only four of fifteen teams would see the chance to continue beyond.
The Huskies hit the ice with promising momentum against their first opponent, but the Quinte Devils, whose net-minding was almost flawless, opened the scoring in the first period and challenged Hamilton's persistence throughout three periods. It was only in the final minutes of the game that Hamilton recorded a goal of their own, leaving both teams with an even start to the tournament.
In the afternoon's match-up against Halton, a fast-paced and aggressive game saw players battle for pucks but also for their pride as they took on their previous weekend's rivals. Though plagued by penalties, limited opportunities and fallen teammates from a chippy game, the Huskies never gave up, but nonetheless were unable to break through, succumbing to a point-free game.
With the dawn of a new morning came what felt to most a renewed energy and desire to win as the Huskies challenged Central Ontario on day two of the tournament. Constant pressure in the attack zone, a solid defense, jaw-dropping slap shots and nifty stick-handling were but a few of the assets that contributed to Hamilton's performance, limiting shots on their keeper and whose head's up hockey led to increased chances that peppered the back of the Wolves' net toward their first victory.
Division leaders Barrie proved to be a worthy opponent in the second game of the day as Hamilton trailed at one point by as many as a handful of goals, but the Huskies' determination was never in doubt this weekend as they ended with two shorthanded goals that rocked the Colts and robbed them of a desirable bonus point in the overall standings.
While it was in game 3 that the Huskies' performance may have appeared most successful if measured in goals, it is thanks to their constant desire to succeed and their ability to regroup and perform under pressure as a TEAM that players and fans alike concluded another great weekend of hockey.
What was set to be the toughest division in the tournament from which eventually surfaced both finalist and champions, the Huskies showed heart and passion and did not disappoint. And while a looming NHL lockout concerns many about Canada's game, fans of all ages continue to enjoy watching what only minor hockey can bring - exciting games, great atmosphere, and most importantly memorable and bonding moments from away tournaments. There is now a fresh feeling of excitement in the air as Hamilton next hosts their season-opener September 22nd at Chedoke Arena, while the organization re-launches the HUSKIES name from 22 years ago as it was originally founded in 1971!
Hamilton Huskies 1 Quinte Devils 1
Halton Hurricanes 3 Hamilton Huskies 0
Hamilton Huskies 9 Central Ontario Wolves 0
Barrie Colts 5 Hamilton Huskies 2

Huskies Show Promise at Elite Tourney

The 2003 Hamilton Huskies headed to Toronto this weekend as one of 21 elite teams entered in the 2012 International Friendship Tournament hosted by the Toronto Marlboros. After a strong performance against league rivals Cambridge Hawks, the Huskies showed very capable in facing two solid opponents in the Mississauga Senators and Halton Hurricanes. Although both games unfortunately fell just short in their dying seconds, nothing fell short of heart and relentlessness from the boys - every player demonstrated their abilities at this level, while net-minding contributed equally to the team’s competitiveness in this tourney. An unfortunate loss in their fourth game against the Toronto Jr. Canadiens relinquished any chance of play in the final day, but this team’s overall performance at their opening pre-season tourney left coaches and fans alike filled with pride and confidence as we all look forward to an exciting and promising season!
Hamilton Huskies 3 Cambridge Hawks 1
Mississauga Senators 3 Hamilton Huskies 2
Hamilton Huskies 4 Halton Hurricanes 5
Toronto Jr. Canadiens 3 Hamilton Huskies 1