The Saskatoon Blades recently ended their successful season with an overtime loss to the Moose Jaw Warriors in game seven. President and general manager Colin Priestner expressed his disappointment that the team’s dream run ended in a nightmare. The season, which was one of the most successful in decades for the Blades, came to an abrupt close. Despite the loss, Priestner wished he could have delivered a championship to the city after the team’s hard work and dedication.
Graduating captain Trevor Wong reflected on his time with the Blades, stating that being a part of the team meant everything to him. Wong emphasized the importance of embracing the culture of being a Blade, both on and off the ice. Graduating defenceman Charlie Wright also had a sentimental farewell to the team after five years of playing with them. He noted that what he will remember most are the people in the locker room, emphasizing the special bond within the team.
With key players like Wright, Wong, and Easton Armstrong moving on, the Blades’ core will likely see significant changes. NHL-affiliated players Fraser Minten and Egor Sidorov are also on the radar of professional teams, signaling a potential shift in the team’s roster. Despite the departures, Priestner acknowledged the impact that these players had on the team and the community, noting that they will be remembered as Blades legends. He expressed gratitude for the positive influence they had on younger players on the roster.
Priestner highlighted the season’s achievements, emphasizing that it was not a failure despite not winning a championship. He believed that the team’s success contributed to the greater good of the sport and the city of Saskatoon. Despite the sour ending to the season, Priestner acknowledged that there were still positives to take away from the experience. The team’s resilience and dedication were evident throughout the season, leaving a lasting impact on the organization and the community.
The players cleaned out their lockers with mixed emotions, reflecting on their time with the team and the season that ended in heartbreak. Ben Saunderson commended the Moose Jaw Warriors for their performance in a series that saw six out of seven games go into overtime. He acknowledged the competitive nature of the games and praised the Warriors as a formidable opponent. The Blades’ disappointment at falling short of their championship goal was evident as they prepared to part ways and begin the offseason. Despite the disappointment, there was a sense of gratitude for the journey and the bond forged between teammates throughout the season.
In conclusion, the Saskatoon Blades concluded their season with a heartfelt goodbye to graduating players and reflection on the team’s achievements. The emotional farewell highlighted the impact of the players on the organization and the community, emphasizing the positive legacy they leave behind. While the season ended in disappointment, there was recognition of the team’s hard work and dedication throughout the year. As the players move on to new opportunities, their time with the Blades will be remembered as a significant chapter in their careers.
