Pats and Congrats: Dartmouth Whalers Atom B at PEI Southside Lynx 2014 Invitational
One of the earlier tournament results of 2014 that I have to mention on the blog is the terrific result of the Dartmouth Whalers Atom B team in P.E.I. The boys took home gold in a strong effort where both the goalies excelled.
Gavin Fitzgerald (1st year atom) and Connor MacMillan (2nd year) put together a 5-0 record, all the while shoe-horning the tournament with some great Central Minor Hockey game results.
Gavin is deep into his 2nd year of goaltending and has come along beyond my high expectations. He continues to work hard and show his passion for the game. So much so, that he even took on the added burden of playing goal for one of the local ringette teams. He may be one of the few goalies that is on the ice more than I am!!
Connor was a new goalie to me. I had a couple chances to work with him last year in the well-attended Whaler goalie developments sessions, but I didn't have much one-on-one time with him. This year, working with the Atom B team of the Whalers, has given me a lot of opportunities to work with this great little netminder. He has a great attitude and work ethic. In addition, while he is still picking up the fundamentals required of modern goaltending, he has so much natural raw ability and desire, I know that he will continue to skyrocket in "goalie skill".
Both boys have become a great tandem and terrific friends which goes to show you how important and rewarding a strong goalie partnership is. It's been a pleasure working with them and I hope we have many years of development together!!