A Positive Vibe Brought to You by Play-by-Play Announcer Dan Marley
The Eastern Hockey League's Philadelphia Revolution concluded the regular season on a very high note, higher than what most people think.
Sure a 19-23-2-0 record and a first-round loss may not look stellar; but, look how far this organization has come since they were first known as the Matt O'Neill Lightning back in the early 90s.
First, let's look at the Revolution's regular season. They finished with 19 wins in 44 games, setting a franchise record for wins in a season. This is the same team that also started the season 3-12-1-0 and were plagued with many injuries and had trouble moving the puck out of the defensive zone.
The months of November and December saw a shift in gameplay that heavily favored the Revolution down the stretch. With an additional boost from the acquisitions of forward Larry Adegoke from the Hampton Road Whalers (USPHL Empire Division) and Daniil Gerasimov from the New York Bobcats, the Revolution were able to snap out of their little funk and win big games. Their 16-11-1-0 run after the slump shows this improvement.
"At this start," said EHL Revolution Head Coach James Laux, "the season could have just went downhill. The leadership, teamwork, and personal character displayed by everyone helped us turn this season around and finish the season strong."
The Eastern Hockey League Playoffs were a challenge. They were up against a powerhouse in the Northern Cyclones in the first round. They may have been ranked as the number-four seed; but, the Cyclones had the second-best record in the regular season. Northern had the upper hand and swept the Revolution, but the Revs kept each game close.
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| Look for some Junior B Revolution players to make an impact at the Junior A level next season. |
"In both of these games," said Coach Laux," we followed our game plan. Everyone played a strong game. The work ethic and mindset were there, but, we were unable to capitalize on enough of our high quality chances."
What has amazed me about this club is their ability to never give up. Every game, whether they were down by one goal or nine, the Revolution always played every game with heart and grit. I also love how this team stands up for one another, especially the times when Kyle Jennings got that game misconduct on the final game of the regular season versus the New Jersey Titans; and both Jacob Caffrey and Mikko Kivinen accepted suspensions for defending their teammates in an altercation with the Boston Junior Rangers back in October.
Next season, the Revolution look to continue that momentum.
"There is a lot of potential for next season," said Coach Laux. "we have some great players returning and are going to have fun recruiting players this summer. I am greatly looking forward to the future of this organization."
As they move forward, some Revolution players will be leaving the junior hockey scene.
"The Revolution organization recognizes and appreciates the dedication and time made by Riley Egan, Ryan O'Malley, Jennings, James Wallace, and Hunter Tetrault," said Coach Laux. "We wish them best of luck at their next stages of hockey development."
In my personal opinion, look for players like Vojtech Luza, Stanislav Khokhlov, and Devyn Dworsky from the Junior B roster to make the Junior A roster next season. They have a great upsides to each of their games, and I am confident that these three can make a strong impact and fill in the missing holes.
Personal Message from the Broadcaster:
Before I conclude, I want to thank the Philadelphia Revolution for the incredible opportunity they have provided me with this season. It has been an honor and privilege to call the games and write for an organization that can only get better as the years progress. As I move forward in my career, I will always reflect on the memories I have made here and the amazing people I have met on the ice and in the front office. Best of luck to the players and coaching staff, and best of luck to entire Revolution family. Remember, Go Revs Go!
Signing Off,
Dan Marley
