The season-long journey has come to an end for the Motor City Metal Jackets.A team that won just 11 games the previous year earned their way to the NAHL Robertson Cup playoffs this season and had relative success, sweeping the Marquette Rangers in the opening round. The team's post-season drive came to a stop however, as the Traverse City North Stars defeated the Jackets in Game 3 of the North Division finals (pictured above) and secured a series sweep with a 5-3 final score.
“I thought our team worked hard in Game 3, but we didn't seem to get any bounces to go our way," Motor City coach David Cole said. "A disallowed goal and one that was a judgment call could have been a factor.
“When it is all said and done, my guys can hold their heads high. This has been a very special group and I can truly say that I have enjoyed this group the most in my coaching career. It has been a great experience seeing them evolve as a team and this group will ultimately have a positive long-term effect on our organization.”
The team has definitely set the table for the future by establishing an incredible work ethic and a never-say-die attitude. Their demeanor on and off the ice has helped increase the visibility of exciting junior hockey within the Downriver community and beyond.
“I am extremely proud of our kids and what they accomplished," said Metal Jackets assistant coach Jason Cirone. "They have all set the tone for future Metal Jacket teams and they should be very proud if how close-knit of a group they are.”
With committed ownership, strong management and experienced coaches, the Metal Jackets are poised for success in the coming seasons.
“The initial goal was to make the playoffs and be competitive - reaching the division finals was a great accomplishment,” said Cole. “It leaves the core group of returning players hungry for greater accomplishments. It is tough to believe our first season has come to an end, but we've already started planning the 2010-11 season at our new home in Trenton.”
With an ever-growing fan base, the Metal Jackets are already excited to provide fast-paced hockey again at Kennedy Recreation Center next winter. With an outstanding turnaround this past year, the team looks to build upon what they have learned and stride head-first into a new season ready for another successful run.
“I thought our team worked hard in Game 3, but we didn't seem to get any bounces to go our way," Motor City coach David Cole said. "A disallowed goal and one that was a judgment call could have been a factor.
“When it is all said and done, my guys can hold their heads high. This has been a very special group and I can truly say that I have enjoyed this group the most in my coaching career. It has been a great experience seeing them evolve as a team and this group will ultimately have a positive long-term effect on our organization.”
The team has definitely set the table for the future by establishing an incredible work ethic and a never-say-die attitude. Their demeanor on and off the ice has helped increase the visibility of exciting junior hockey within the Downriver community and beyond.
“I am extremely proud of our kids and what they accomplished," said Metal Jackets assistant coach Jason Cirone. "They have all set the tone for future Metal Jacket teams and they should be very proud if how close-knit of a group they are.”
With committed ownership, strong management and experienced coaches, the Metal Jackets are poised for success in the coming seasons.
“The initial goal was to make the playoffs and be competitive - reaching the division finals was a great accomplishment,” said Cole. “It leaves the core group of returning players hungry for greater accomplishments. It is tough to believe our first season has come to an end, but we've already started planning the 2010-11 season at our new home in Trenton.”
With an ever-growing fan base, the Metal Jackets are already excited to provide fast-paced hockey again at Kennedy Recreation Center next winter. With an outstanding turnaround this past year, the team looks to build upon what they have learned and stride head-first into a new season ready for another successful run.
Photo by John Castine/HockeyWeekly.com
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