Game Day at Kootenay

A nice bit in the Herald today about MacMaster, Ryckman, and Rimmer and how coming to the Americans, how that change of scenery, has helped them out.

"We believe in second chances," Tory said. "It's not an exact science, but we have a lot of good things going for us. New players are welcomed in the dressing room. There is no pecking order -- it is a family environment. Everyone is treated with respect and dignity. It's a different environment when you play on a team struggling to win."

"This team is different in the sense we come to the rink expecting to win," MacMaster said. "That is the attitude you need to win. In Calgary, there were times we would drop four or five in a row. It was hard to stay positive. When you are 18 or 19 (years old), you aren't happy just to be in the league any more. You want more."

"In Lethbridge I was depended on a lot on the PK and the power play, and in all situations," he (Ryckman)said. "Here I get to concentrate on the defensive part of my game. It's a lot of fun to play here. The crowd is energetic and loud, and the guys are great."

"We have a great team here," Rimmer said. "The 20 guys and our staff are responsible for our record. It's a lot of fun to win, and a lot of hard work. I feel blessed with the opportunity to play here."

"I'm having a great time here," he said. "I love coming to the rink everyday. It's a treat to play with these guys. I believe our defensive corps is second to none in the league. They give me a chance to play more aggressive."

"I love playing in front of the home crowd," he added. "There were a lot green shirts (empty seats) in Prince George." (Herald)

Speaking of change of scenery, all-time leading scorer in Everett Silvertips history, Tyler Maxwell, has requested a trade. He doesn't like playing on a team that's rebuilding. Cry me a river, buttercup. Everyone wants to play on a winning team, get over it. He's a 20 so it'll be interesting if any team picks him up. He may have got himself in a pickle, going from playing on a shitty team to not playing at all. Get over your sense of entitlement there, cupcake.

The Americans are in Cranbrook tonight to take on the Kootenay Ice. Remember it's on Mountain time so pre-game starts at 5:45. There will be liveblog, but don't expect as much ridiculousness as the other night :)