So after a couple of losses this weekend on their Colorado road trip the Badger hockey team find themselves at 0-8 and in sole possession of last place in the Big Ten. I figured it might be a good time to ask some tough questions and get a feel for the pulse of the team. How to do this? By interviewing myself of course.
Is it time to push the panic button?
No, absolutely not. Yes, the 0-8 record is tough to swallow. As Badger hockey fans we’ve never experienced anything like this. In 2012 the Badgers started slow, but that was a veteran team that finished strong, won the WCHA tournament and qualified for the NCAA.
This is a different team. Eleven freshmen have seen significant time already this season. They’re still looking for someone to step up, put the team on his back and right the ship.
Time to replace Mike Eaves?
No, absolutely not. You can’t just look at the record. You have to look at the personnel on the ice, who they’ve played and how they’ve played. This team has talent and while they’re struggling now, they’re going to be a force down the road.
What is it going to take to get this team on track?
Basically, they just need to break through and get that elusive first win. Once they get the first one more will come. The young team just needs the boost of confidence a win will bring. The team is competing. The team is doing the things they need to do to win. They just need the effort, a good bounce and some of that talent to come together and spell “v-i-c-t-o-r-y!”
When are they going to win?
My prediction is that they get a win this weekend at home versus Ferris State (7-6). The Bulldog’s are a solid club who qualified for the NCAA tournament last year losing to North Dakota in the Midwest Regional Final. That said, they’ve only got 4 seniors on their roster this year. They’re not as young as the Badgers, but 8 freshmen qualifies them as a young club.
What am I doing to help the Badgers?
Yes, probably a weird question as technically there isn’t much I can do to help the team to victory. Or is there?
Well, I’m doing what I can. I’ve been sleeping in a Badger hockey jersey for the last month or so. Yes, I have multiple jersey so “funk” is not a concern.
I’m also flying my Badger flag proudly. 0-8 hasn’t even dented my confidence.My commitment and loyalty to the team is at an all-time high.
I love it when a new group of players take the reins. Yes, there are some growing pains, but I’ll be okay. It just makes the victories down the road that much more satisfying.
GO BUCKY!
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