Tigers’ teamwork leads to success on the ice

The first win is sometimes the hardest, which makes winning that elusive game even sweeter.

“They all got up and they were dancing and hugging,” said head coach Mike Haviland.

“Seeing all the smiles and guys enjoying the win was just a good thing to see,” said senior Hunter Fejes.

After dropping 13 straight games to start the season, the Tigers are back on track – winners of three in a row.

Coach Haviland says the success comes from his guys’ desire to fight and willingness to work together.

“The guys feel good about themselves, they believe in themselves, and we were close in a lot of games early on but just couldn’t get over that hump and once we got over it,” said coach Haviland. “You could see the confidence and the belief really go to a different level.”

It starts on the practice ice, where long hours of preparation turn into camaraderie and confidence. Now the Tigers are seeing how that effort translates into wins.

“Guys are not worrying about their own accolades, and they essentially just want the team to win,” said Fejes. “I think that’s why we’re having success.”

Fejes and junior Luc Gerdes teamed up for two consecutive game-winning goals over the weekend. Gerdes says a little ‘brotherly love’ created the chances.

“[Fejes and I have] been clicking on the ice lately,” said Gerdes. “Everybody’s pretty close off the ice, but [Fejes and I have] always been close so it’s been good to click on the ice too. It’s more fun when you’re out there with your brothers.”

The Tigers hope to keep the good times rolling in Western Michigan this weekend.