The theme for the 2014/15 season for the 02
Warriors is some things change and some things remain the same. The season opened
with a new coaching staff and 3 new players. After a solid start against the
Knights, the Warriors experienced some growing pains in league play but a
strong showing in two early tournaments seemed to indicate that the group was
beginning to gel.
An early highlight for the Warriors was a 4-0 win over league rival Woodstock coming on the heels of 4 straight losses including a loss in the final of the Guelph tournament. It was evident that this team could beat anybody but at this early stage could also find a way to lose to anybody. As the year progressed, it was noticeable that the 02 Warriors enjoyed their time together. They were coming together as a unit and began to play for each other. They have been focussed during practice and have demonstrated a commitment to execute according to plan. At times they faltered but not for a lack of effort. If the season opened with change, the end of the season was about what has remained the same. The 02 Warriors as a group have shown maturity beyond their years. They demonstrate on a yearly basis commitment to improving as a group. They have had great success when it mattered most and 2014/15 has been no exception. A later highlight was the initiation of a player only meeting at the back of the bus after a tough loss in Burlington, culminating in a list of things that required immediate attention moving forward. This group entered the playdowns in the 4th seed and disposed of “up and coming” Sarnia easily, won an emotional battle with league leading Brantford punching their ticket to the league final and a date with rival Woodstock. After taking game one the Warriors would eventually lose to Woodstock capping a very successful playoff run . As an exciting perk to the current season the 02 Warriors will represent Stratford as the host city of the Peewee A OHF Championships. We look forward to competing against champions from across the province right here in Stratford. Regardless of the outcome, these 02 Warriors continue to be one of the jewels of Stratford Minor Hockey in the way that they conduct themselves on and off the ice. They have provided great entertainment for their families and fans and have been true ambassadors of this great game in this great city.
- Author Coach Cassone