12U Performed Well in NIHL Tiering Round

Coach Steve Jakubowski's 12U team took the ice this September with a mix of returning veteran players and fresh new faces to the TI organization. The girls bring a wide range of experience to the team which expects an exciting and challenging season as they attempt to repeat as national contenders. The team, competing in the NIHL Peewee Silver Division, had a mixed bag of results in the tiering round of play. The NIHL round ended with the 12U's at 2-4-2. The team never trailed by more than two goals and are due for explosive offensive attack. The girls showed moments of brilliance on the ice; highlighted with pinpoint accuracy in passing and outstanding team speed. As the season progresses and the girls become more comfortable with each other the win column is sure to grow quickly. The team's speed will be utilized to take control of the games as the offense emerges. The team will rely on the solid goal tending of veteran Sydni Espey and new addition, Erin Callahan as they hone their skills under the watchful eye of Coach Glenn Hoff. The net minders skill and agility will be key to the success for the coming season. Both girls will share duty between the pipes and so far in the early season have shown great resiliency in shutting the door on opponents' top scorers. 

Coach Steve Tuszynski is putting the defense through their paces. Anchored by the speed and experience of Kathy Shei, the defense is aggressive and has the ability to rush the puck and set the pace for quick break outs. Alyssa Spratte and Sarah Steinke add the physical presence to keep opposing shooters back on their heels as they patrol the blue line. Caitlin Flynn and Jessica Howerton play strong to neutralize attackers and create the odd man rush. 

The offense can be devastating but has yet to have the break out game necessary to ignite the girls' potent array of scoring talent. Nicole Germaine leads the way with Ashley Motherwell and Lauren Jones. Speed is the characteristic to best describe this offensive threat. This strong aggressive line is highlighted by Ashley Motherwell's quick release. Lauren Jones' speed along with break out passing from Nicole Germaine will allow this line to set the tempo of the game, with odd man breaks and aggressive play in the attack zone. Erin Bradarich spearheads the line with Samantha Patrone and Claire Santostefano. Teamwork and back checking is the key to this scoring line. The ability to unselfishly pass the puck and set up in front of the net has generated the teams leading scoring line. Samantha Patrone's strength in the corner and passing accuracy of Claire Santostefano has allowed Erin Bradarich the mobility necessary to drive the puck home for numerous tallies. Kelly Keogh brings out wingers, Kelly Galiniak and Katherine Stephans. Katherine Stephans' strong presence and work along the boards has kept the puck moving and out of harms way. The two Kellys' speed has been an effective neutral zone trap in shutting down the top lines of other teams. 

The 12U team has high expectations for the season. This talented group of girls has the skill and resourcefulness to be tremendously successful. We all look forward to a fun and exciting season.