BULLDOGS END CAMPAIGN ...
The 2007-08 hockey season came to an end on Saturday night at the Fort William Gardens for the Thunder Bay Bulldogs. The Thunder Bay Bearcats scored a fluke goal 4 minutes into the contest and that turned out to be the only scoring of the contest until the Bearcats added an empty net goal with 3 seconds remaining to seal the win and wrap up the best of five series 3-0.The game was a crowd pleaser with both teams having many great scoring chances but both Drew Strandberg and 'Cat goalie Josh Mrakic provided outstanding goaltending to keep the contest close throughout. Strandberg stopped 49 of 50 shots while Mrakic faced 29 Bulldog shots to gain the shutout. The Bulldogs had a very competitive year on the ice and all the players could be proud of the fact that they gave a complete effort throughout the year both during games and practices. Only four of the Bulldog players had played Junior 'A' hockey prior to this year, so much needed experience was gained by the young group. There was great harmony amongst the players and with 19 of the 20 players eligible to return next year a lot of the continued hard work and committment should be pay off in the win column next season. Congratulations go out to both Drew Strandberg who was named the S.I.J.H.L. top goalie and defenceman Mike Thibert who was awarded the league's most gentlemanly player. The club would also wish the 'big guy' Eric Hoflen well in his future endeavours, as he graduates from Junior hockey this year. The 6'2" 240 lb. Hoffy, obtained in a mid-season deal with the Portage Terriers, gave the team a presence throughout the second half of the season by adding muscle to go along with his grit and determination in his style of play. Also leaving the team is head trainer Katie Farrell a kiniesiology student who graduates from Lakehead University this year. Katie did an excellent job, supplying the guys with laces, tape or other equipment they needed, while also becoming a top notch skate sharpener. The trainer's room usually had more players there than in the dressing room. We wish Katie great success in her future career. Thanks Katie. Upcoming information about Bulldog tryouts and camps will be announced in the coming weeks.
The Bulldogs play their next home games on Saturday March 15 and Tuesday March 18 (if necessary) against the Thunder Bay Bearcats. Note: these games are scheduled for the Fort William Gardens.
