The Orillia Experience Nissan Minor Midget single "A" hockey team recently competed in the Pickering Panthers Double "AA" Tournament advancing all the way to the finals only to lose in overtime to the Barrie Flyers. The much under rated single "A" Orillia squad surprised many teams in finished a convincing 3rd out of 12 double "AA" centers.
Orillia started out the tournament on the short end of a 2 to 1 score losing to the Aurora Tigers. Scoring Orillia's lone goal was Schuyler Koprla on a pass from Catlyn Camego.Braden Price played well in goal stopping 22 of the 24 shots directed his way. Braden Price received the MVP award for the Terriers.
They faced Guelph in their second game and came away with a convincing 4 to 0 score. Orillia's defense was outstanding scoring 3 of the 4 goals while only allowing 8 shots against goaltender Braden Price. Wes Elliott scored 1 goal and 2 assists while Brian Black added 1 goal and 1 assist. Mike Ganton and Zack Zaritsky scored 1 goal each. Lee Hammond contributed 1 assist. Brian Black received the MVP award for the Terriers.
Game three opponents were the Stoney Creek Warriors and once again Orillia's defense was dominant allowing only 7 shots on goalie Mike Sullivan, in their 4 to 0 win. Mat Brown led the scoring parade with 2 goals and 1 assist while Mat Salmon added 1 goal and 3 assists. Wes Elliott added a single goal while Jeff McLean added 3 assists. Mat Brown received the MVP award for the Terriers.
With the victory Orillia advanced to the semi finals against the hosting tournament team and the tournament favorites, last years All Ontario Double "AA" Champions, the Pickering Panthers. The Orillia squad matched Pickering shot for shot and came away with a hard fought 3 to 1 victory. Schuyler Koprla scored all 3 goals while Justin Storey and Catlyn Comego each added 2 helpers. Mike Sullivan played well in goal. Schuyler Koprla received the MVP award for the Terriers.
With the win Orillia advanced to the tournament finals against the Barrie Flyers whom presently sit at the top of their respective double"AA" loop.
Orillia played a strong game against a very large Barrie team and at no time were intimidated by their size outshooting their opponents by a 23 to 21 margin. Orillia held on to a 2 to 1 lead and with only 44 seconds on the clock Barrie scored to tie the game and send it into sudden death overtime. With 3:21 left on the clock in the 1st overtime period Barrie scored the winner to take the tournament championship.
Scoring for Orillia was Catlyn Comego and Justin Storey whom scored one of the nicest goals of the tournament stick handling around several Barrie players before finally deeking out the goalie and sliding the puck into the cage. Schuyler Koprla picked up a single assist. Braden Price played well in goal.
Coach Borrelli added that he was very proud of his teams outstanding efforts against these double "AA" teams, noting that his team was complimented, by several teams, of their work commitment and skill level. Borelli added that it takes a special effort from all team members to achieve the success that the Orillia team achieved this weekend and would like to thank all involved for a very sussessful weekend.
Team Members are: Steve Almedia, Chad Shennett, Lee Hammond, Zach Zaritsky, Dan Anderson, Justin Storey, Jeff McLean, Mike Ganton, Wes Elliott, Brian Black, Schuyler Koprla, Mat Brown, Catlyn Camego, Tony Brown, Matt Salmon, Mike Sullivan and Braden Price. Their coaching staff consists of Mike Borrelli, Dave Winnatoy , Randy Salmon and trainer John Elliott.
