Nordiques Spring 2011 T5S Champions!!!!!
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Nordiques silence Van Team 4-1 for T5 Spring Crown
Nordiques' 1st T5S championship; 4th consecutive overall championship; Arora named Torche recipient
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Stamford July 17, 2011
The Nordiques came out tonight with a punishing physical presence, dominating defense and goal tending, and an opportunistic offense to defeat Van Team 4-1 and win their first T5 championship and the organization's 4th consecutive crown overall. From the first drop of the puck, it was clear the Nordiques were determined to bring home the championship for all of the players representing the organization's three teams. Every Nordiques player displayed passion, intensity and grit.
The Nordiques T6 and T5N teams were eliminated from post-season play a week ago, so its was up to the T5S crew to get it done. And they left no doubt about who the better team was tonight. They got it done with a stifling defense that yielded just one goal, thanks in large part to a goal tending performance by Scott Morrissette that was unquestionably his finest of the season. Scott played in every T5S game for the Nordiques and proved himself to be the team's most valuable player this season. Scott was tested tonight but met every challenge with aggressive athleticism and the necessary passion to rise to the occasion and carry his team on his capable shoulders. In front of Scott tonight were the familiar defensive pairings of Peter DiMartino/Mike Fillios, Jimmy Cook/Marc Lotti, Richie Bruno/Ronnie Kim. All played at the top of their games, tying up attackers, clearing pucks and making key outlet passes.
A physical message was sent early and often throughout the game. Punishing hits were delivered by defensemen DiMartino, Lotti and Bruno in the defensive zone. Meanwhile, the pesky threesome of Matijcio, Matijcio, Arora answered the call and stood tall in the face of some aggressive play in front of Van Team's own net. As a result, Van Team were quickly off their games, and their frustrations led to an ejection of one of their players in the second period. The score at the time was just 2-1.
It was important for the Nordiques to score first, and they did. In a style we have come to admire, it was Mike Fillios taking the puck into the Van Team zone with speed. Drawing defenders to him, Mike slipped a soft pass onto the stick of captain Rick Gioia who was parallel in the slot. Line mates Phill Rincand and Scott Jachimsky blew past Van Team forwards and were in close pursuit for a rebound. But Rick carefully settled the puck and roofed one over a frozen goalie.
The next goal was key, and the eventual game winner. It was the Matijcio brothers teaming up on a power play goal in the first period. The goal was Justin's and made possible by some great passing in the offensive zone by the brothers while Van Team's defense was focused on the quick-footed Anit Arora. This goal was Justin's 4th in the T5S post season (and he was later named post-season MVP). The Nordiques took the 2-0 lead into the 2nd period knowing that the game was not over and that Van Team would never let up, would never stop charging. And they didn't. Van Team scored on the back end of a Nordiques double-minor penalty to make the score 2-1 by the end of the 2nd period.
The third goal, scored in the third period, was a great effort by winger Breck Masterson. Joined on the line by Tim Nash (center tonight) and Eric Farrell, Breck's goal put Van Team into desperation mode and that caused them to unravel a bit. Van Team became a bunch of individual skaters and, to the Nordiques advantage, they abandoned the best parts of their game -- cycling and passing. It became an easier task to defend them.
The Nordiques capitalized later in the third when Rick Gioia made a good pass to Phill Rincand (Lucky Phill!) who ripped a great shot at the net. The goalie made the save but centerman Scott Jachimsky pounced on the rebound and buried it for the fourth and final goal. For the final 5 minutes, the Nordiques took care of the puck, played D and spread the ice out to finish the game. Van Team, who looked invincible while eliminating #1 seed Sting a week ago, was gracious at the center ice post game hand shake.
After the game, the Torche was awarded to Anit Arora (see story and photos below). The Nordiques also paid a tribute to defenseman Mike Fillios who's play this season was inspiring. Mike will shortly be leaving Connecticut pursuing a professional opportunity in North Carolina. The Nordiques have had many fine defensemen over the years, and Mike is clearly among the best. Mike joined the Nordiques this spring and provided the defense (both in T5S and T6) with speed, experience and skill. As Mike's defense partner for most of the season, alt-captain Pete DiMartino said "Because Mike became such a positive and instructive voice on the bench, his presence and play lifted the team, and the T5S championship run would have been much more difficult without him. It was great to see his generalship blossom as we got deeper into the season. Mike was viewed as a potential Torche winner had fate not intervened. As his partner on the blue line I am particularly sad to see him go, but we all wish him and his family happiness and good fortune".
Mike's team mates signed his jersey at the post-game celebration as a meaningful farewell gesture and wished him the best in his new endeavors. Captain Rick Gioia said the team was"thrilled by Mike's play this season and while we are sad to see him go we are very happy to send him on his way with a Nordiques championship among his most recent accomplishments, and we wish Mike many more accomplishments and milestones". Friend and team mate Tim Nash said "Mike is a terrific player and made an impact on the Nordiques right away. But more importantly, Mike is a terrific person, a heck of a nice guy, and we will miss him." Agreed.
Interviews and post game celebration took place at Ice View. Howie was chief referee and laid down the law, and otherwise did a great job calling the game along with another experienced official. 19,040 were in attendance. And way up north, there were no riots in the historic downtown streets of Quebec City. Nothing but a classy respect for the beloved Fleur de Lis and indeed a healthy dose of tribute to the fine character displayed by those who fought to preserve this grand Nordiques heritage.
Congratulations to all Nordiques players, both on the T5 and those on the T6 squads. It was a fantastic spring season. The Nordiques tip their caps to Van Team and the rest of the T5S teams for playing so well during the long spring season.
Nordiques T5S Spring 2011 Roster (Nordiques Championships won in parenthesis)
Rich Gioia F/D Captain (6)
Rich Bruno D Alt-Captain (6)
Peter DiMartino D Alt-Captain (5)
Ronnie Kim D Alt-Captain (2)
Scott Morrissette G (1)
Jim Cook - D (6)
Breck Masterson - F (4)
Mike Robinson - F (4)
Anit Arora - D/F (3)
Tim Matijcio - F (3)
Justin Matijcio - F (3)
Tim Nash - F (3)
Eric Farrell - F (3)
Charlie Roth - F (2)
Chris Roth - F (2)
Scott Jachimsky - F (2)
Anthony Gencarelli - F (2)
Phill Rincand - F (2)
Mike Fillios - D (1)
Marc Lotti - D (1)
Jack Vartulli - F (1)
Rob Diabarca - F (1)
The Nordiques will quickly reset the clock and enter a team into the STR summer hockey league (T5). Players will come from all 3 Nordiques teams to fill out the squad. Games will not regularly be reported on this website, but we hope you will rejoin us in October for the start of the winter season. Not all Nordiques will play this summer. After four consecutive and exciting seasons which were all capped by Nordiques championships, for some it's now time to relax for the remainder of the summer. Rest the body, spend time with family, go on vacation, hit the gym, whatever. First thing though, wash the gear, please!!
Hockey players get into funny habits whether they consciously realize it or not. Those habit are no more apparent than at playoff time. The season can be a mental grind, and the grind gets ratcheted up in the playoffs. From the breakfast and dinner you choose (not to mention game day protein bars), to the timing and concoction of vitamins and pain killer you take, to the twig you pick and how you tape it, to the way you put on your gear. Every detail takes on special meaning with the hope it will make a positive impact for your team. There's nothing quite like hockey, and none quite like hockey players. God bless them all. Hockey gives us all so much in return for what we put out. Cheers to the brotherhood of hockey...
Finally, to all in the Nordiques family, to their families and friends, and fans locally and internationally, the team thanks you for your interest and support. You can friend us on facebook at Stamford Nordiques to check for recent and upcoming events (like the timing and location of our spring championship celebration). The team would especially like to thank their wives, partners, significant others and families who let their men come out to play like boys to keep the torch lit and carry it forward with their Nordiques brothers, shoulder to shoulder. Have a great summer!!
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Anit Arora receives Torche honor
Post season trophy awarded by Tim Matijcio
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Stamford July 17, 2011
The Nordiques followed tradition tonight and awarded the Torche trophy, this time to Anit Arora. The award was presented by former holder Tim Matijcio following the team's championship victory at STR (see first photo below). The Nordiques congratulate Anit. He is a deserving recipient because of his energy, his commitment, and his leadership. He lifts his team. Anit also has a tremendous attitude, he's a real team player and a real Nordique.
Tim Matijcio said "we are lucky to have a guy like Anit on our team. He's the ultimate player and always a force on the ice." Former Torche winner and chairman/coordinator of the Torche selection committee, alt-captain Peter DiMartino said "Whether he plays defense or offense, Anit has the ability to be a game changer from anywhere on the ice. En accord avec les tradions amende de Nordqiues hockey, nous sommes ravis d'Anit, et nous le félicitons de son formidable réussite".
Peter (shown in second photo below with Anit) explained "the Nordiques organization is very lucky to have several Torche candidates. Anit brings energy and commitment to his team. He clearly deserves this honor and we are so happy for him . He proves himself every game to be a very tough competitor on both sides of the redline and he raises the bar for everyone wearing the Nordiques jersey. It is an honor to take the ice with him".
Anit's name will be inscribed on this award along with so many other great Nordiques players from years past. Anit also will have the honor of presenting this award to the next Torche winner down the road.
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Nordiques one step away from first T5S Crown
T5SNordiques dump Trashers 5-2 in semifinal; Championship Sunday showdown vs Van Team
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Stamford July 12, 2011
The Nordiques turned in a very solid performance tonight against #3 seed Trashers. From the goal tending to the defense to the offense, the Nordiques successfully held off a hard-charging Trashers team. The win puts the Nordiques into the T5S championship game against Van Team who upset #1 seed Sting tonight at STR. The championship will be a single game (not best of three) and the puck is set to drop on Sunday at 9:30pm.
All three lines played well despite an unusual amount of face offs lost. It was the defense though who started and ended the scoring for the Nordiques while Justin Matijcio hat tricked in between. Defenseman Peter DiMartino took a corner feed at the blue line in the 1st period and fired a low shot on net. Either not seen by the screened Trashers goalie or possibly deflected off a Trasher defenseman's skate, the puck slipped inside the right post. The Nordiques made it 2-0 shortly after when Justin Matijcio score the first of his three goals. The score was 2-1 going into the 2nd period.
Justin would score the next two Nordiques goals, making the score 4-1 by the 3rd period. His third goal was a power play goal that touched all 5 Nordiques sticks (Tim Matijcio to Anthony Gencarelli down low to Peter DiMartino to Mike Fillios at the blue line and finally to Justin who completed the hat trick). At 4-2, Rich Gioia, playing defense tonight, scored the Nordiques 5th goal.
Trashers tried hard to get into goalie Scott Morrissette head with a few snow jobs and some contact. Scott did the right thing by keeping his cool (ice on the face helps to do that) and staying focused. Scott played a fearless and technically sound game. He will need to do the same against Van Team on Sunday. Van Team are another speedy and relentless group that cycles the puck well down low. The Nordiques defense also will have their work cut out for them but they hope to spring some forwards past their constantly pinching defense.
During the regular season, the Nordiques faced Van Team three times. The Nordiques won the first, tied the second and lost the third game. Van Team does not speak English (at least on the ice). They appear to hail from an eastern European city and are a tight, insulated group. Readers may recall it was a Van Team player who was arrested and banned from STR earlier this season for punching out a referee. True story, not making it up.
Tonight's forward lines were TMatijcio/JMatijcio/A-train, Delorey/Nash/Masterson, Vartulli/Robinson/Jachimsky/Farrell. Defensive pairings were DiMartino/Fillios, Gioia/Lotti, Kim/Bruno. Referees were Randy/Pugslie, who called a good one and let the boys play. 18,200 were in attendance and post game interviews were held at Ice View.
Postscript: It is anticipated that the Torche trophy will make a season ending appearance this Sunday and will be awarded by Tim Matijcio (current holder) to the next well-deserving recipient who will be among a small and select group of Torche winners. We can't wait for the moment when we learn who'll be the next player inducted into the exclusive club and have their name inscribed on this original Quebec Nordiques MVP trophy. The Torche has been awarded for almost a decade, each time to a player who raised his game, a player who became a difference maker, one who demonstrates leadership and Nordiques spirit, and lifts his team's play because of these attributes. The most recent winners were Jimmy Cook (two-time winner), Peter DiMartino (2009), Justin Matijcio (2010), and Tim Matijcio.
Post-Postscript: The Nordiques acquired some video tape of Van Team and have thoroughly have analyzed Van Team's play. The Nordiques will unveil a Van Team-specific game plan on Sunday. As such, although not disclosed at this time, there will be several line-up changes.
Post-Post-Postscript: On Wednesday July 13, three teams won exciting overtime games and claimed their spring championships. The Nordiques congratulate T4 Flying Circus who beat Barflies in triple-OT, also T5N Norsemen who defeated Pub Crawlers in double-OT while the team from Westchester, Anderson Analytics, knocked-off Red Bull in double-OT to take the T6 spring crown.
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Nordiques drop semifinal to Anderson 2-0
T6Nordiques championship streak halted at 3
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Stamford July 11, 2011
The streak has ended for the T6Nordiques. After 3 consecutive championships, the Nordiques were eliminate from the T6 post season tonight by Anderson Analytics by 2-0 score. Perhaps it was poetic justice that it was Anderson who ended the streak. It was against Anderson that the Nordiques won their first of 3 straight championships last spring (2010). The Nordiques played a stellar first half of the season, going 6-2 but limped to the finish with a mediocre 7-6-1 record. The division saw no dominant team, and as it goes, anyone beat anyone else on any given night. The championship game will feature #2 seed Red Bull vs #4 seed Anderson on Wednesday June 13. The Nordiques players congratulated one another for a hard fought, well played season. Further, the Nordiques tip their caps to the championship contestants and wish them both luck.
Tonight's contest was rather uneventful. Anderson scored the first goal of the game in the first period while killing a Nordiques power play. Anderson's winger picked off a pass in the neutral zone and streaked into the Nordiques zone well-covered by Nordiques defenseman Kent Holden. The winger released a shot from the left circle. The rising shot beat the Nordiques goalie, Scott Morrissette, over the stick-side shoulder. And that was pretty much it. The Nordiques defended well all night but failed to put sustained pressure on Anderson's defense and goalie. In fact, Anderson's defense played a fine game by blocking several shots and clearing pucks such that their goalie was seldom tested. The game remained 1-0 till the final goal, an empty-netter, with less than a minute left.
The Nordiques viewed this as a very win-able game, and it was. However, the Nordiques couldn't get the job done tonight. Despite the loss, the team goes into the summer with their heads held high and with an anticipation for the winter season. The team regrets not being able to defend their titles in the championship round. The team also regrets not giving their goalie more support. Tonight it was T6 backup Scott Morrissette who played very, very well. He deserved better than a zero-goal producing team in front of him. At the same time, the team regrets not being able to win this one for their regular T6 goalie Jay Dobos. Jay played valiantly in every T6Nordiques game this season until tonight. Team captain Rich Gioia said at the post-game, "It would have been nice to win this one for Jay". Alt-captain Peter DiMartino said "Pas de honte, nous nous sommes battus toute la saison. Onward et vers le haut nous passons ensemble. Pour Jay et tous les Nordiques de T6, bien fait".
Spring T6 Nordiques' roster:
Rich Gioia -Captain
Rich Bruno-Alt Captain
Peter DiMartino-Alt Captain
Jay Dobos - Goalie
Tim Nash
Breck Masterson
James Delorey
Frank Desantis
Jack Vartulli
Kevin McCully
Tyler Schinto
Andrew Vranos
Mike Schwartz
Kent Holden
Matt Simon
Mike Fillios
Steve Ulbrich
Jimmy Cook
Paul Modugno
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One down, two to go; Nordiques defeat Lightspeed 5-4
T6Nordiques will play Anderson in Rd 2 as 2-4-6-8 seeds win first round contests
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Stamford July 6, 2011
The Nordiques played a strong game last night and hung a 5-4 loss on #3 seed Lightspeed. The win eliminates Lightspeed from post season play and advances the Nordiques to a 2nd round match against Anderson on Monday July 11 at 10:30pm. The winner of that game will play for the T6 championship. History buffs will recall that it was a year ago when the Nordiques defeated Anderson in games 2 and 3 of the championship round to take the Spring 2010 championship. This was the first of 3 straight titles for the T6Nordiques who haven't lost a championship since. Worth noting, Anderson had gone into the final 2 games of that season with an intimidating 18-0 record before twice falling victim to the Nordiques. There is little history since then. Anderson finished in 4th place in the T6 standings this spring and advanced to round 2 by defeating Nomads last night 5-0. The Nordiques played Anderson only once in the spring regular season and that was a 5-3 loss in game 1 way back in March.
The Nordiques never trailed last night, but Lightspeed managed to keep it close. Tyler Schinto opened the scoring for the Nordiques midway through the 1st period off a nice feed in the low slot. Shortly after, Rick Gioia added to the lead to make it 2-0 in the first despite Lightspeed's physical play against him. Offensive lines tonight were Delorey/Masterson/Nash, DeSantis/Gioia/Vartulli, and Schinto/McCully/Schwartz.
The score was 2-1 when the puck dropped to start the 2nd period. It took Breck Masterson 11 seconds to corral the face off and skate in to score the 3rd goal for the Nordiques. Breck scored again later that period turning a 3-2 lead into a 4-2 lead. The defense clamped down and held their opponents in-check for much of the 3rd period. The 5-man defensive unit tonight included Bruno/Cook/DiMartino/Fillios/Ulbrich.
With Lightspeed's defense pinching-in in order to create offensive pressure midway through the 3rd, Nordiques defenseman Mike Fillios deflected a pass up high near the blue line and sprinted in to score a pretty break away cushion goal to extend the lead to an insurmountable 5-2. However, Lightspeed came on strong after Frank DeSantis was flagged for a double-minor penalty late in the period. Lightspeed scored 2 goals but could not tie the game with goalie Jay Dobos sealing the deal for his team. The Fillios "cushion" goal turned out to be the game winner.
Also last night, Red Bull defeated Ice Paddys 7-1. A a result, Red Bull is the highest surviving seed and will play #8 seed Trashers (also on Monday) who found a way to upset the #1 seed Fat Tire 2-0.
Postscript: Last night (July 7) the 5N Nordiques were defeated by Puck Bandits and are eliminated from the spring post season. The second round matchups for 5N are Barflies vs Pub Crawlers and Puck Bandits vs Norsemen. We just want to give a round of applause to our T5N team. We know it was a rough season, but that serves to magnify their accomplishment of gutting it out and giving everything they had to give for every game of the season. No one mailed it in. They showed up for one another and stuck together like brothers. That in itself says as much about Nordiques pride than any playoff or championship win. As always, this group of players has provided leadership and great examples of how Nordiques go about their business. They always have each other's backs and they never blame; always positive and always proud. Way to go boys. We hope you walk away from the spring season with a sense of achievement and a hunger to lay it on the line again next fall.
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Nordiques start playoff drive
All Nordiques teams qualify and everyone has something to play for as postseason arrives
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Stamford July 5, 2011
After a short hiatus, we are back writing about the Nordiques. And it's just in time too as all three Nordiques teams gear up for the playoffs after the 14-game spring season grind. The playoffs begin Wednesday and all tiers, all rounds are single-game elimination. Wherever a team finished in the standings, this playoff format allows each qualifying team a shot. Maybe it's a shot at redemption or maybe a it's a chance to beat a team they "coulda/shoulda" beat during the regular season. For the Nordiques, this is a chance to answer, a chance to "show me what you got" now that chips are on the table, a chance again to show the pride, passion and grit that Nordiques teams have. This is why we play the games and don't just pick a winner out of a hat. Good luck boys!!!
First up this week is the T6 crew as they set their sights on defending 3 consecutive titles going back to spring 2010. The T6 team started the spring 2011 campaign well but limped to the finish line with a 7-6-1 (7-7) record which was good enough to tie for 4th place (but are seeded 6th due to tiebreakers). Their opponent will be #3 seed Lightspeed and the game will be played Wednesday July 6 at 10:30pm. Also facing off on Wednesday are #1Fat Tire/#8Trashers, #2Red Bull/#7Ice Paddys and #4Anderson/#5Nomads. With a win, the T6Nordiques will play on Monday July 11 (time tbd) in the single-elimination second round.
On Thursday July 7 at 7:30pm, the T5North Nordiques begin the post season with renewed purpose and fresh wind in their sails. They will play 5N Puck Bandits who finished as the #2 seed. This T5N Nordiques team is very capable of winning this game and it would be reminiscent of the Nordiques T5 playoff run last winter when they bounced Puck Bandits out of contention which advanced them to within one game of the championship. If the Nordiques win, they will face #1 seed Barflies who have a first-round bye. Also Thursday #3Norsemen/#6Nomads, #4Pub Crawlers/#5City Carting.
Finishing tied for first place, the T5South Nordiques (9-4-1) earned a first-round bye. They will play on Tuesday July 12 at 9:30 (team tbd). The team rebounded from a 3-game losing streak by posting wins in their final two games. The T5S Nordiques scored 60 goals this season and allowed 40.
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6Nordiques drop shootout to Nomads
Valiant 9-man effort earns a point
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Stamford June 16, 2011
The Nordiques did a great job of making it look like they didn't have just 9 skaters tonight versus Nomads. Lots of short, quick shifts helped to keep the energy level sufficient throughout the contest. The Nomads, despite a full bench and a number of upper tier players shoring up their sagging and aging regular roster, could do no better than take the Nordiques to a 3-3 shoot out session. Nomads scored 2 times to the Nordiques 1, but the point earned is the first for the Nordiques after 2 straight losses and that has the team feeling good.
The Nordiques skated 5 forwards and they all did a great job penetrating the offensive zone and on the forecheck. Tim Nash and Rick Gioia accounted for the go-ahead goals and they had steadfast support from Mike Schwartz, Frank DeSantis and Kevin McCully. On defense, it was short and simple. They kept their shifts short, and played a disciplined and simple game by blocking shots and keeping the puck away from the front of the net. They moved the puck out quickly and the forwards did a fine job on the break out. Tonight's D pairings were DiMartino/Simon, and Bruno/Holden. Jay Dobos had a fine night in net but got banged up a little during the contest. Jay hung tough and gave his team a chance to win.
The boys all played well tonight but unfortunately had approximately one bad minute of play. During the 3rd period with the Nordiques up 3-1 the Nomads scored 2 quick goals and that turned a probable win into a shoot out loss. That was the difference in the game. But the 9 guys who showed up for this game didn't beat themselves up over it. In fact, the post game meeting (held at different undisclosed location) was about as enjoyable as ever. That's because the effort was there, everyone put out all they had, and there's no shame in that. The evening ended with a few too many "Irish car bombs" and a huge error on the bar tab in the team's favor. The barmaid made out really well! Not a bad night at all.
Next up for the 6Nordiques is Fat Tire on Monday June 20 at 9pm.
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5SNordiques lose 3rd period, game to Van Team 6-4
Losers in 3 of last 4, Nordiques searching for answers
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Stamford June 12, 2011
The Nordiques took an early lead over Van Team tonight and managed to take a 4-3 lead into the 3rd period. However, Van Team came on strong and won that period 3-0 to skate away with a 6-4 win. The loss is the 2nd straight for the Nordiques and 3rd in their last 4 games. Van Team just flat out out-played the Nordiques in the 3rd period leaving the Nordiques searching for answers.
The next three games will be crucial for the Nordiques. Up next is Ice Paddys on June 22 followed by Puck Bandits and Clydesdales to close out the regular season schedule. Presently there are 4 teams knotted atop tier 5-South including the Nordiques, Trashers, Sting and Van Team. If necessary, the only team the Nordiques hold a tie breaker over is Trashers (1-0), having lost 2 games each to Van Team (1-2 with shoot out loss) and Sting (0-2). Despite the potential to still finish on top of T5S, the Nordiques have clearly strayed from the winning ways in recent weeks and will have to right the ship.
Tonight's game saw several defensive lapses and an inability to clear the puck from the defensive zone. On the other end, Van Team point men were open all night and their wingers used them often to maintain puck possession in their offensive zone. Van Team had terrific command of the ice by finding open skaters and consistently making perfect passes that resulted in shots and rebounds.
Despite the disappointment, the team is poised to stand tall the rest of the way.And, despite recent successes, nothing has ever come easy for the Nordiques and this season will be no different.
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5SNordiques lose it! Sting romps in rematch
Nordiques lose 2 straight to bitter rival; 7-2-1 with 4 to play
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Stamford June 7, 2011
The 5SNordiques were ineffective against Sting tonight bringing about the Nordiques 2nd straight loss to the same team. Despite scoring first, the Nordiques had a difficult time containing Sting's speed and passing and overall superb play. It didn't help matters that goalie Scott Morrissette injured himself early in the game as he gutted his way through the night. The rest of the Nordiques did not have that excuse. They tried hard, worked harder but could not keep Sting from running up the score. Prior to these two games with Sting, it was though that the Nordiques would run away with tier 5S. Now it seem a certainty that Sting is the class of the division. With 4 games remaining it is possible for the Nordiques to capture a top spot, but the will have to make the 4 games count beginning on Sunday June 12 against Van Team at 8:45pm.
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6Nordiques drop Lightspeed rematch
Nordiques lose 2 in a row as 4 teams knotted atop T6
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Stamford June 5, 2011
The T6Nordiques dropped a Sunday afternoon matinee to Lightspeed today by a 4-2 score. Just 5 days ago the Nordiques pounded the same team 8-2. Both teams played very well in a close game but the goal tenders stole the show. There were several great scoring chances but each goalie came up big time after time. The game probably was the best of the season for both net minders.
The loss, 2nd in a row for the T6 Nordiques, drops the Nordiques record to a pedestrian 7-4 and creates a 4-way deadlock atop T6 along with Lightspeed, Red Bull and Anderson. The Nordiques are a disappointing 2-3 against these teams and will not hold any tie breakers on Red Bull and Anderson. It is looking as if tie breakers will play a role in the final seedings with 3 or 4 games remaining in the spring regular season.
The Nordiques T6 team will have some down time before playing Nomads on June 16.
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6Nordiques gored by Red Bull
Close game turns into penalty fest
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Stamford June 1, 2011
In the middle of a 3-game showdown with the 2 other top ranked teams in T6, the Nordiques let one get away tonight against a tough and hard-charging Red Bull team. The 4-1 loss leaves the Nordiques in 1st place with 14 points but allows Red Bull to pass Lightspeed as they move into 2nd place with 13 points. Having defeated Lightspeed yesterday, the Nordiques will see them again this Sunday for a matinee rematch. That will be an important victory to have if not only to maintain 1st place for the time being, but to distance the Nordiques from 3rd place. The spring playoff format calls first-round byes for the top 2 seeds.
Tonight the Nordiques were under intense pressure from the start. Spending most of their energy in the defensive zone, the Nordiques generated offense in only small spurts. Given the speed and passing displayed by Red Bull and their ability to cycle the puck down low, the Nordiques defended well and didn't allow a goal early on. The 4-man defensive unit (Simon/DiMartino, Fillios/Ulbrich) had their hands full but matters became more serious when Ulbrich left the game with a severe shoulder injury. Rich Bruno stepped in to shore up the defense.
Red Bull had a lot of guns tonight, but the Nordiques forwards did a terrific job hanging in with them. The offensive core was without a few players, but the guys battled hard. Desantis, McCully, Vranos, Vartulli, Nash, Gioia (goal), Schwartz, and Jachimsky all back-checked well and applied offensive pressure. Trailing 2-1 in the 3rd, the game turned ugly. Challenges were issued. Several slashes, checks, shoves, and profanity preceded a string of penalties. The Nordiques were on the losing end of the penalty calls and soon would be on the losing end of the game. The Nordiques lost focus and became distracted by very chippy play by their opponents.
The team will look to get back on the winning track on Sunday against Lightspeed at 4:30. The Nordiques have won both matches against Lightspeed while outscoring them 16-7 along the way. After that, the final 3 games of the regular season will be against Nomads (June 16), Fat Tire (June 20) and Nomads again (June 28).
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6Nordiques skate to 8-2 win
Schwartz caps the night off with a beauty to help team retain 1st place
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Stamford May 31, 2011
This game was billed as a showdown for first place in T6. Someone forgot to tell Lightspeed because they didn't look like they were up to the challenge. In fact, they appeared to be defeated before they stepped onto the ice, already resigned to the beating that was about to take place. They had a lot of excuses though, and most of what happened was indeed the fault of the Nordiques. But it wasn't the referees fault, and there weren't any ringers on the ice. One team was ready, the other wasn't. We've all been on the losing end of that equation before. The Nordiques really like and respect the Lightspeed crew and their captain especially, but at some point, when all you see is the other team pointing fingers, they just are not owning up to the fact that they didn't play nearly as well as they are capable. After all, they were 6-3 going into this contest. Time to look into the mirror boys.
The Nordiques skated well all night and rarely were they beat to a puck. Crisp passing made for good puck movement and Lightspeed D were under pressure all night. As he always does, Lightspeed's goalie stopped an incredible number of shots as his team played awfully soft in front of him. Nonetheless, 8 shots found their way to the net including 3 in the first, 2 in the second and three more in the third capped off by a terrific Mike Schwartz goal that left his team mates all shaking their heads. Prior to Mike's gem, Vartulli had a couple as did Masterson.Tim Nash and Jim Delorey pitched in with a few more and Rick Gioia scored on a penalty shot after he was mauled from behind on a break-away attempt.
Jay Dobos played well again and did a fine job directing traffic in front of him. One of Jay's best attributes is that he takes care of the puck and communicates well with his defense. Aside from a few defensive lapses, Jay could have had and deserved a shut out tonight. But Jay is now 7-2 having been in goal for all T6Nordiques games. He's been a terrific team mate and is always ready to go when the puck is dropped. Protecting Jay tonight were Matt Simon/Peter DiMartino, Steve Ulbrich/Mike Fillios, and Kent Holden/Rich Bruno.
The last time Nordiques played Lightspeed (game 2 of the season), the Nordiques had a large lead as well. But Lightspeed fought like dogs and came close enough to make the game respectable (7-2 turned into 7-5 before the final goal made it an 8-5 Nordiques win). Tonight, The Nordiques didn't let up at all and Lightspeed didn't appear to have the will to try. The lopsided win brings the Nordiques record to 7-2. They now have a 2 point lead over Lightspeed (6-4) and a 3 point lead over tonight's opponent Red Bull (5-2-1). The game will be played at 9pm at STR.
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5S Nordiques rebound; drop hammer on IP 7-1
Back to basics as "Bread Line" scores 5 times, Defense smothers
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Stamford May 25, 2011
In what was expected to be a more difficult contest, the T5S Nordiques romped their way to a 7-1 victory tonight versus T5S Ice Paddys. The win is important for the Nordiques as it gets them back on track after sustaining a thorough defeat (first of the season) at the hands of Sting 2 nights earlier. Now at 7-1-1, the Nordiques have 15 points and appear to be 5 points ahead of the pack with 5 games remaining in spring regulation play. The team is now anticipating a matinee rematch with Sting on Sunday Jun 5 at 4:30pm.
To say this game was not close would not be fair. Despite taking a 1-0 lead, the Nordiques surrendered a goal in the 1st period and the teams started the 2nd period tied at 1-1. From there it was all Nordiques. The team used 2 forward lines manned by Tim Matijcio-Justin Matijcio-Anit Arora and Anthony Gencarelli-Tim Nash-Breck Masterson. The Matijcio/Arora line ("Bread Line") scored 5 times as Tim Matijcio set up numerous scoring chances for his brother Justin (2 goals) and Anit Arora (Hat Trick!). The Nordiques scored 4 unanswered goals in the 2nd period and 2 more goals in the 3rd period (goals by Marc Lotti and Tim Nash) to turn the tight game into a clock-runner. All of the goals however were workman-like. That's how the Nordiques turned the tide tonight, by getting back to basics and working hard down low in their offensive zone.
There are 2 more reasons this game became a one-sided affair. The first is Scott Morrissette. "Le gars est un joueur", said a fan at the post-game gathering held at an undisclosed Stamford location. A member of the Morrissette "young ladies fan club" uttered "C'est un bon athlète et a des sens trop vif Il aide qu'il n'a peur de rien sous pression. It's accurate, he's a gamer and very steady for the Nordiques when under pressure. We cannot report on the other comments made by the Morrissette young ladies fan club.
The other reason(s) tonight's tilt become "affaire a sens unique" is the defense. "All good games begin and end with solid defense" said Ronnie Kim and tonight the 5-man defensive unit of DiMartino/Lotti/Kim/Gioia/Bruno made it difficult for IP to settle into their offensive zone. There was very little sustained pressure. Most of the shots were from far and away as many passes into the slot were intercepted; one shot and out of the zone. The defense moved the puck quickly up the boards where the wingers did a fine job of picking it and passing up ice. When IP point men pressured the wingers, Nordiques D found plenty of open ice up the middle to make successful outlet passes.
Postscript: The Nordiques tip their caps to a classy bunch of IP players tonight. All very likable and sportsman-like. In a display of their unbridled sportsmanship, IP supplied Nordiques goalie Morrissette with a goalie stick when his broke during the match. A goalie without a goalie stick is indeed a sad sight to see. The Nordiques recognized the gesture by tapping their sticks on the ice and calling off the dogs.
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5S Nordiques get dose of reality, lose to Sting 4-1
Absorbs 1st regulation loss; "Took it to us"
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Stamford May 23, 2011
"We never really got it going tonight". "They took it to us in every zone". "What the hell just happened?" Those were just some of the post game remarks that sum up the Nordiques' losing effort tonight. The 4-1 loss is the first regulation loss for the T5S Nordiques this spring. Their 6-1-1 record still is tops in the tier owing to a comfortable cushion. That cushion could take another hit tomorrow night if the Nordiques don't manage to pull their games back together and defeat the T5S Ice Paddys at 10:30. Early in the season, the Nordiques scored a decisive victory versus Ice Paddys 6-2. However, Ice Paddys have improved their squad in the weeks since and now hold a 4-4 record. Meanwhile, the Sting victory evens their spring record to 4-4 as well.
In the early minutes, the game went according to script as the Nordiques pushed Sting back and displayed dominant play in their offensive zone. The Nordiques made a statement, but had nothing to show for the good start. Sting surged back by using their speed and good passing. The Nordiques knew right from there that the Sting team was motivated. From that point on, Sting pretty much never lost control of the game and had an answer for anything the Nordiques tried to accomplish.
The Nordiques had some scoring chances but failed to cash in. Throughout the contest, the Nordiques had little problem gaining the offensive zone, but once there were modestly effective. Sting often wrestled control of the puck quickly and blew through the neutral zone uncontested. More often than not, Sting came into the Nordiques zone 3-on-2 with puck possession and speed. Given the immense pressure, the Nordiques had managed to limit the damage. In fact, Sting has just a 2-0 lead going into the 3rd period.
Unfortunately the Nordiques spent much of the final period short-handed in a succession of penalties. At 3-0, Ronnie Kim scored for the Nordiques with an assist to Roth. With the score still 3-1 and 4-plus minutes left in the game, the Nordiques appeared to cut the deficit in half, but the referee did not see what most spectators and players saw as a clear goal. With an embarrassing exclamation point, Sting drove the puck down ice while the Nordiques were celebrating and scored the 4th and final goal.
Bitter pills leave bitter tastes.
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6 Nordiques thaw Ice Paddys 3-2
Captain Fantastic leads team to victory
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Stamford May 19, 2011
With several key players out of tonight's lineup, the T6 Nordiques patched together a makeshift crew and went at it with Ice Paddys again. Having lost to Ice Paddys on Sunday (2-0), the Nordiques wanted this game badly. No one wanted to win it more than captain Rick Gioia though. Rick put the team on his broad shoulders as he and his first line mates carried the offense, and team, to a 3-2 victory.
The Nordiques now have a share of first place with Lightspeed, both teams holding 6-2 records. The squad will have a 10-day rest before playing again, this time looking at back-to-back nights beginning Tuesday May 31 for a first-place showdown with Lightspeed at 10:30pm. The following night, the Nordiques will face-off against Red Bull at 9pm. The Nordiques won a convincing game against Lightspeed earlier in the season but have yet to play Red Bull so far this season.
Despite some uneasiness about headcount prior to the game, by 10:30 the Nordiques had enough manpower to play 3 offensive lines with 2 defensive lines. The Nordiques initiated offensive pressure throughout the game and on each line. However, it was the first line of Nash-Unger-Gioia (the "NUGget" line) that provided all the scoring. Rick Gioia started the scoring by finishing on some great work by Kevin Unger during an early first-period shift. At the end of the first period, well more aptly said, at the very VERY end of the first period, Tim Nash scored the second goal for the Nordiques right at the buzzer. It's great to see a player play hard right to the whistle (or buzzer in this case), when others might be tempted to let up at the end of a long, hard shift. That was a big goal for the fleur-de-lis who then went on to control the second period still holding the 2-0 lead.
Because this team lost on Sunday to IP 2-0, it would have been fitting to preserve the 2-0 lead tonight and go home with a satisfying win. That was forgotten when Rick Gioia scored his second goal of the game. Rick took the pass at center ice and broke to the net dueling with a big IP defenseman. Rick sacrificed himself to get a shot off while diving over the now prone, outstretch defender. Rick scored a beauty but came down hard to the ice. It wasn't till after Rick put his pieces back together and skated on his own power back to the bench that his team was relieved and ready to celebrate the goal and 3-0 lead. It was a great, hard-working goal that showed this man's, and this team's, passion for the game and desire to win tonight. Oh, and it also turned out to be the winning goal!!!
Jay Dobos played strong in net tonight stopping all shots and controlling the net area. It wasn't till late in the game that the Nordiques D got a bit too aggressive and found themselves uncharacteristically undisciplined in their defensive zone. IP was good enough to take advantage of the Nordiques' breakdowns and roofed a pair, one to Jay's glove side and the other to his stick side. However, the Nordiques D looked themselves in the proverbial mirror, found religion, and got back to nuts-n-bolts D to shut down IP and take the win right there at 3-2.
Captain Rick Gioia said of his team's win and his 2 goals, "Nous avons gagné en équipe et a joué comme une équipe. Jay avait une bonne nuit dans le filet trop" . Returning the favor, Jay told reporters "Ricky cariées nous ce soir et le D a très bien joué devant moi à nouveau".
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5S Nordiques scramble Parts 5-3
Take 13 of 14 points in Spring first-half
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Stamford May 17, 2011
Tonight the T5S Nordiques completed the first-half of their season with a gritty performance against Parts Unknown. Parts has developed into a fast and skilled team who moves the puck, passes, and brakes out of their zone very well. With all three Nordiques' lines charging hard, and with their defense attacking aggressively from the points, the Nordiques turned a 3-3 tie in the 3rd period into a 5-3 win. This is the team's 4th consecutive victory and 6th overall this spring. The Nordiques are on top of the T5S standings at 6-0-1 having taken 13 of a possible 14 points. The boys were very happy to have Charlie Roth back from injury and reunited with his team and the Vienna Fingers.
After about 8 minutes of back-n-forth play, it was Jack Vartulli putting the Nordiques on top in the first period. A few minutes later, Charlie Roth scored to make it 2-0. Not just content to be back, Charlie came, as always, ready to be a difference-maker. His goal was scored while diving through the air. We think the acrobatics mesmerized even the goalie, and certainly his team mates. However, Parts fought hard and would answer back to make it 2-1. Within a minute of Parts' goal though, Chris Roth scored off a bad-angle shot . The puck appeared to ricochet off the goalie's helmet before finding the twine. If it did, Chris deserves the break, as there is no one who works harder every time he steps on the ice than Chris does and this shift was no different. Assists on both goals went to Scott Jachimsky.
The 3-1 Nordiques lead turned out again to be the dreaded 3-1 lead. Parts capitalized twice on a scramble in front as well as scoring a power play goal to tie the game. With patience the Nordiques played on, bombarding Parts' goalie with shots and missing the net several times. It wasn't till the 3rd period that defenseman Mike Fillios took control of the offense and created opportunities. Several shots on goal resulted from Mike's effort, but it was Mike himself who scored the game winner from the circle making it 4-3. The insurance goal was scored by captain Rick Gioia, playing 3rd line wing with center Mike Robinson, who set up the goal with a perfect pass to Rick.
In the crucial minutes down the stretch its was the Nordiques defense who sealed up the defensive zone and kept the pressure and shots away from goal tender Scott Morrissette, who has been in goal for all 7 Nordiques T5S games this season. The defensive pairings were Lotti/Masterson, DiMartino/Fillios and Bruno/Arora.
The 5S Nordiques begin the 2nd half of the season on Monday May 23 at 10pm against long-time rival Sting (3-3-1), and then will play again two nights later on Wednesday May 25 at 10:30pm versus T5 Ice Paddys.
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6 Nordiques play weekend marathon, win 2
5-2 record near top of tier at season's midway mark |
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Stamford May 13-15, 2011
Schedule-wise, the T6 Nordiques team got off to a slow start this spring. In fact, by the time other T6 teams played 7 or 8 games, the Nordiques had only played 4. League management made up for the deficit by scheduling games on 3 consecutive nights this weekend for the Nordiques. Two of those games were against T6 Trashers and one against Ice Paddys. The Nordiques rose to the challenge (on this very busy mid-May weekend) and were victorious against Trashers on Friday and Saturday. Both games were grind-it-out 5-4 wins. While those wins were satisfying, the Nordiques paid a price as the team lacked sufficient energy and scoring on Sunday against Ice Paddys, who played very well and have a 2-0 victory to show for their hard work. All considered though, a very good weekend on the ice.
The Nordiques should be proud of their hard-working effort and team spirit, especially those who played in all three games. Most notable among them were goal tender Jay Dobos. Joining Jay all 3 nights were Frank Desantis, Tim Nash, Rich Bruno, Peter DiMartino and Matt Simon. Those guys had plenty of help, particularly a gutsy performance from 10-year veteran Nordique Paul Modugno who answered the call for his team Friday and Saturday at defense. Saturday's stand out performances were turned in by defenseman Matt Simon and winger Andrew Vranos, each scoring 2 times.
The 2 wins puts the T6 Nordiques at 5-2 at the season's midway mark. They trail first place Lightspeed by 2 points -- Lightspeed is 6-2 after 8 games. As expected, it is very close at the top of T6 right now as teams are lined-up with 12 (Lightspeed), 10 (Nordiques), 9 (Red Bull) and 8 points (Anderson) so far. After that 2 teams are tied with 7 points.
The Nordiques look for some revenge and to get the second half of the season started off on the right foot on Thursday May 19 when they will play a rematch with Ice Paddys, who have improved to .500.
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5S Nordiques take out the Trashers 7-2
Nash-Robinson-Arora line scores 5
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Stamford May 10, 2011
Spectacular defensive play and great passing laid the foundation for another convincing win tonight as the still undefeated tier 5 South Nordiques dominated Trashers at STR. The Nordiques controlled play at both ends of the ice, and halfway through the game seemed to be able to score at-will. The Nordiques scored 7 unanswered goals before Trashers found the net. With this win, the team builds on their already stellar record (now 5-0-1, 11 points) and solidifies their hold on first place, maintaining an edge on 2nd place Trashers who are now 4-3. Next up for the T5S Nordiques is Parts Unknown on Tuesday May 17 at 9pm. Parts hold a record of 3-3, tied for 5th place.
Five of the Nordiques 7 goals came from the second line tonight. Mike Robinson scored 3 while Nash and Arora had one each. Meanwhile the defense sealed off the zone and shut down Trashers offense. It wasn't until late in the game that Trashers found a way to penetrate the defense and goal tender Scott Morrissette.
The Nordiques await the return of winger Charlie Roth from injury - and that is expected to happen on Tuesday May 17.
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5N Nordiques Find Their Footing, Pummel Nomads 8-3
Jim Cook goes into beast mode, carries team to victory
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The 5N Nordiques were finally able to put one in the win column last night after a 0-5 slide to start the season. A second period surge of goals was enough to coast to an easy victory on the night Brian Fratturo maybe a triumphant guest appearance in net for the Nordiques.
The Nordiques came out strong in the first period after a long 3 week layoff. With plenty of time to think about the fundamentals they got away from in the beginning of the season, the Nordiques got to their game early. Despite a desperate charge, the Nomads were able to get the first goal on a turnover in the Nordiques zone. The Nordiques didn't flinch, knowing that they were the better team early in the game.
Jim Cook, saddled by the pressure of signing a $100 bar tab during the offseason, finally found a spark in his game that flooded his mind with memories of his youth. Late in the first, with the Nomads goalie screaming to his D to cover #28, Cook unleashed his patented slapshot on a faceoff win high over the goalie. The Nomads goalie could only shrug his shoulders, knowing he had been beaten by a perfect shot.
Cook continued his dominance as the 2nd period opened, finding two teammates with great centering passes for two tap-ins on the same shift. The first goal was a beautiful display of puck movement, as Paul Modugno handled a Nomads dump-in and filtered it up to Joe Reilly. James Delorey drove the net as Reilly hit Cook entering the zone late. Cook settled the puck and saucered a backhand pass for Delorey to put it home. 30 seconds, later, Delorey battled hard in the corner and fed the puck behind the net to Cook who quickly one-touched a pass to Reilly out in front. This sequence got the Nordiques bench worked into a frenzy and the Nomads knew it would be tough sledding from there. When asked about his play Jim Cook said "My teammates worked hard to secure the puck, I was just able to make the last pass and was happy to see the boys put it home."
Late in the period, after a Delorey penalty, the Nordiques sent out the PK unit of Steve Dryer, Scott Morrisette, Eric Farrell, and Tim Matjicio. A faceoff win by Matijcio when back to Morrissette who floated the puck out of the zone. The Nomads defender attempted to glove the puck down and it ended up right at center ice. Farrell was able to pick up the puck in stride and head towards the Nomads net. Just as he began to start his patented spin move, the Nomads defender tripped him up. The referee emphatically pointed to center ice for a penalty shot, the first of Farrell's short career.
The dagger was put into the Nomads heart with 12 seconds remaining in the period. The Nordiques intially lost the faceoff in their own zone and let the Nomads D get a shot off. The puck kicked out to center, springing Tim Matjcio and Farrell on a 2-0. Matijcio checked the clock and fired a rocket off both posts to score as time expired.
The 3rd period was an even affair with both team trading goals. Steve Dryer scored on a rebound and Justin Matijcio put home a backhander on a breakaway to seal the victory. Spirits were high heading into the locker room but the Nordiques know it's still a long climb to get back into the playoff picture.
The next game for the Nordiques is Wednesday, May 18th vs the Norsemen at 10:30pm.
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Nordiques Bust Puck Bandits 5-3
Matijcios score 3, A-Train 2 in tight contest
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Stamford May 4, 2011
The T5S Nordiques went into battle last night against T5S Puck Bandits, and quite a battle it was. Both teams played rough, physical games and the officials sent about a dozen players to the penalty box for a variety of aggressive infractions. Both teams held the lead at one point or another, but in the end it was the Nordiques skating off with the hard-fought win. Along with the win came sole possession of first place in Tier 5-South. The Nordiques have earned a 4-0-1 record (9 points), and passed Van Team (4-3, 8 points) who lost last night. Meanwhile Puck Bandits fall to 2-4 while Ice Paddys and Parts Unknown improve to 3-3 apiece with wins last night as well. The T5S Nordiques play T5S Trashers next Tuesday May 10 at 10:30pm. Trashers hold an impressive 3-1-1 record and trail the Nordiques by 2 points after 5 games.
The Nordiques scored first last night on a goal by Justin Matijcio. However, before the first period ended, Puck Bandits took a 2-1 lead by skating hard, playing physically and controlling the puck in the Nordiques zone. Goaltender Scott Morrissette was victimized by a skate deflection, but otherwise stopped everything he could see. The battle lines had been drawn and victory would not be easy tonight.
Standing tall on the front line was Anthony Gencarelli. A-train fought hard for the puck against two defenders, and with a man-advantage, scored the game tying goal with a long stretch in the crease around to the goalies left side. Now at 2-2, Tim "highlight reel" Matijcio lifted the Nordiques to a 3-2 lead by putting a great move on the Puck Bandit goalie who on this one occasion flinched first. But before the period ended, a Puck Bandits defenseman rushed the puck end-to-end on a power play and turned the corner at the net and around the Nordiques defense to slip one by Morrissette. That one hurt, and sent the game into the 3rd period at 3-3.
Both teams had good scoring chances in the 3rd period. The puck just would not settle down for the Nordiques though, and bounced over the sticks of Gencarelli, Nash, Diabarca, Roth and Gioia, all who had good shooting opportunities. At the same time, Puck Bandits tried hard to get the Nordiques off their game with continued intimidation tactics. Some of the calls and non-calls by the officials were hard to figure, but they tried to keep things more-or-less balanced and gave each team a chance to win the game.
At about 8 minutes remaining it was A-train again, hard to contain and plenty physical too, with the 4th Nordiques goal and eventual game winner. But the Nordiques had to kill off a penalty in the final 2 minutes to secure the win. Underscoring their hunger to score a tying goal, Puck Bandits pulled their goalie for a 6-on-4 attacking advantage. After an initial save and offensive-zone face-off, this time the Puck Bandits could not control the puck and Tim Matijcio jumped past three Bandits pinching the blue line and punched out the empty net insurance goal.
Both A-train and Timmy played very gutsy games and were often the focus of Puck Bandits' pugnacity. Throw Justin and Anit into that mix too. In fact just about every Nordiques player gave or received a dose of physical play tonight.
The Puck Bandits played a hard charging game last night. Helping to stem the tide and protect Scott Morrissette were defensemen Arora/ Bruno/DiMartino/Gioia/Lotti. Of note, Anit Arora and Mark Lotti were difficult for the Puck Bandits to deal with. Both carried the puck up ice often and were tough in the offensive zone on the blue line.
At the end of the night, the Puck Bandits lacked character. This is because they are led by a character-less captain who refused to shake hands after the game. In fact that's two games in a row this same captain (once for T6Nomads and once for Puck Bandits) would not join the post-game hand-shake line with the rest of his players to shake the hands of the Nordiques players. This is not just courtesy and sportsmanship, it is hockey tradition. No matter how hard the battle and bitter the loss, teams meet at center ice to shake hands as a sign of respect to one another and the game itself. Behavior like that shown by the Puck Bandits captain is not leadership, that is not what wearing a "C" on your sweater is about. We can deal with the chippy stuff (which we are all guilty of from time to time), but the Puck Bandits' excessive crying and complaining was most surprising. They have played together too long and too well. Again, it comes down from the top.
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Nordiques flirt with loss, take shootout win
Gioia's 3 goals too much for Fat Tire to overcome
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Stamford May 2, 2011
**Sunday was a day of historic global importance. We awoke to the glorious news of the beatification of Pope John Paul II and went to sleep with the glorious fulfillment of a near 10 year chase as the President reported that U.S. forces killed Osama bin Laden. It's fitting in this case to turn around a popular phrase. That is, the kill is better than the thrill of the chase. God bless our Navy Seals and other soldiers, and all those who worked this assignment so flawlessly. Is it divine intervention that both of these events would take place on the same day? Hard to tell, but we'll take it. Praise be to God for both. وهو انجاز كبير. الحمد لله. We'll always remember where we were when we hear the good news late Sunday night. Right there at Ice View with a few team mates and a few cold ones.**
No longer an easy win, Fat Tire's game and personnel have improved. The T6Nordiques saw this first-hand last night when they watched a 3-1 second period lead become a 3-3 tie at the final buzzer. Fortunately for the fleur-de-lis, goaltender Jay D saved his best for last with some big game saving stops down the stretch to secure a shoot out session.
Jay then shut the door for good and stopped each FT attacker in the shoot out session. Meanwhile, the Nordiques scored 2 times in the shoot out as Breck Masterson (first shooter) scored the winner and Rich Gioia's third tally of the game iced it for the Nordiques.
The Nordiques scored the first two goals of the game, both first period tallies by Rich Gioia and Jim Delorey. Gioia scored again in the second to open a 3-1 lead. However, FT kept coming and beat the Nordiques to the puck with more speed and determination. Down low, the defense had their hands full keeping the crease area clean. Several Nordiques spent time in the penalty box for minor infractions. While FT didn't score on the power play, it helped them put their game together and take some of the energy out of the Nordiques' legs.
The Nordiques are climbing their way up in the T6 standings. The win improves their record to 3-1 (6 points) and the team is now 2 points behind Lightspeed and Anderson who have records of 4-1 and 4-2, respectively.
The T6Nordiques will battle Trashers on Sunday May 8 (time TBD) and again Saturday May 14 at 8:20pm. The Trashers currently hold a 1-2 record in the T6 division.
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Nordiques bring horsepower, outrun Clydesdales 3-0
Team celebrates with a few cold ones as Van Team melee results in arrest
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Stamford April 26, 2011
It was a fantastic night for the T5S Nordiques and a profoundly careless and "galacticly stupid" night for a Van Team player.
Tonight, the Nordiques played a terrific game, perhaps their best effort so far this young season. The team skated energetically every minute of every shift of the contest and were rewarded with a 3-0 win. The T5S Nordiques' record is now 3-0-1 (7 points) as they breathe down the neck of first-place Van Team (4-1, 8 points).
The Nordiques went with a well-thought-out and very effective lineup consisting of 6 defensemen and 6 forwards. It was the right call by the captains as the Nordiques controlled the neutral and defensive zones. Forwards back-checked enthusiastically and transitioned to offense quickly, creating many scoring opportunities and forcing Clydesdales to burn a lot of gas in their own zone. Forward lines were Masterson/Nash/Robinson and Jachimsky/Roth/Vartulli.
Meanwhile, the defense added pressure with several shots on goal from the point and helping to hem their opponents into their own zone. The defense tonight consisted of Arora/Lotti, DiMartino/Fillios, Bruno/Gioia. The D-core collectively made the night very difficult on Clydesdale's forwards and gave their own forwards a break with several key rushes throughout the game. Adding to Clydesdale's hardships was goaltender Scott Morrissette. Scott played confidently and displayed his sharpest skills yet, stopping everything cold, giving no rebounds, and controlling the puck for his defense.
This evening's goal scorers were Breck Masterson (a rebound off a hard point-shot by Anit Arora) and Scott Jachimsky in the first period. It remained 2-0 till nearly the end of the second period when Tim Nash victimized Clydesdale's goalie on a rebound when he was out of position after making a save.
The T5S Nordiques play again next Tuesday May 3 at 9:15pm against Puck Bandits where they will look to capture a share of first place.
Van Team Player Arrested
In the late game, featuring (T5S) first place Van Team and Parts Unknown, the contest turned ugly near the end of the game. With players scrumming, a Van Team player lost control of his sensibility (assuming he ever had any) and struck an official with blows to the head two times. The official, who was wearing a helemt and face protection, was fine afterward. The player, after being identified in the locker room by the officials and rink management, was arrested by Stamford police and taken away in hand cuffs. That player (identified in the link below) is scheduled to be arraigned on the charges at state Superior Court on May 6 and from what we hear is banned from ever playing hockey at STR again.
More on this unfortunate and ugly development can be found at http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/policereports/article/Norwalk-man-arrested-for-assaulting-referee-1354407.php
The Nordiques are appalled by this incident, as were all others at the rink tonight. A-captain Peter D, when sought for comment, said on behalf of the Nordiques "The officials at STR are terrific guys. They are very good and experienced referees. They take the games and their responsibilities seriously. Sure, players will sometimes bark at them in the heat of the game, but we have lots of respect for each of them. We appreciate their service to the league and our game. We also enjoy sharing camraderie with many of them as they are a big part of the hockey experience. An incident like what we saw tonight is unimaginable and unthinkable".
The story prompted many responses by Nordiques players, some of whom were on-hand the see the player being taken away in hand cuffs. Others caught up with the headlines the next morning. Steve Hep's first reaction when he saw the headline was he thought it was (goaltender) Frat. Dr. Mike had a similar reaction and said, "Thank God it wasn't Frat". We thought it was strange that Frat was the focal point of these first-reactions. Well, we were wrong, not strange at all. When sought for comment, Frat offered one, saying "If that's the ref I think it is, he doesn't deserve to get punched twice" (hmm?). Doug Eng then followed with "Now we can't punch a ref without getting arrested. Ruins it for the rest of us!" Penguins fan Eric Farrell reflect on the situation too. "Nobody wearing Lemieux's number would do that, just sayin" (referring to the fact that the Advocate writer chose to point out that the arrested player was wearing number 99, the same number worn by Wayne Gretzky). To which Jim Delorey commented "Bad editing. Rink crime beat maybe doesn't get the highest priority at the advocate."
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Nordiques pour it on late, roll past Nomads 8-2
Team awakes from three-week layoff with pair of hat tricks
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Stamford April 25, 2011
Playing their first game since April 5, the T6 Nordiques hung an 8-2 beating on 6Nomads tonight. The Nordiques got six goals from their first line (Nash/Delorey/Masterson) and a goal each from the second line and defense all while playing a penalty free game. The Nordiques are now 2-1 and will play Fat Tire on Sunday May 1 at 9pm. Fat Tire is currently 2-3 after 5 games.
Tonight's scoring overshadowed the defensive effort. But the Nordiques 5-man defense (DiMartino/Bruno/Simon/Holden/Fillios) gave Nomads little hope that they would be able to penetrate in a meaningful way. Goalie Jay-D kept his team in front when the game was still in the balance early on. Neither of the two goals scored by the Nomads were Jay's responsibility.
First period was tightly played and Jay made some key stops. The first two goals were scored by the Nordiques' first-line center Jim Delorey and defenseman Peter DiMartino from the point. The period ended 2-1. Delorey and Masterson added goals in the second period sending the game into the final stanza at 4-1. That output would double as Masterson and Delorey completed hat tricks owing to some fine breakout passing from the defense and multiple assists for Tim Nash who often took the puck through the neutral zone and put the puck on net where his line mates effectively swept up. Tyler Schinto added the game's final goal late in the third. This recap wouldn't be complete without mentioning the team's fine back-checking effort, particularly by Frank DeSantis, Tyler Schinto and Rick Gioia, which so often is a big factor in wins and the key difference in losses.
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Nordiques give one away
5S Team squanders 4 goal lead; Lose in Shootout
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Stamford April 17, 2011
The T5-South Nordiques wasted a Tim Matijcio 1st period hat trick and a 4 goal lead in what became a shoot out loss. This was the second of back-to-back games against Van Team, having defeated them 4 days ago by 5-3 margin. That game saw the Nordiques jump out to a lead also, but the Nordiques successfully fought off a late surge by the opponent. Credit Van Team again tonight for battling and battling. This time, the Nordiques did not have the answer or will to respond and put down the surge. Despite the efforts of goalie Scott M who all but stole a point for his team tonight, the Nordiques could not retake the momentum when the game was on the line. The team won't play again till next Tuesday Apr 26, 9pm versus Clydesdales. This is expected to be a much more difficult contest for the Nordiques who will enter that game with a 2-0-1 record.
The Nordiques jumped out to an early lead in the first period on goals by Anit Arora and then three unanswered goals by Tim Matijcio. Following the 4-0 spurt, the team went into a funk whereby they took several penalties throughout the game and all but abandoned the back-check too. By giving away the neutral zone, Van Team took advantage and set up several plays with unobstructed passes as they entered Nordiques territory. The Nordiques ran around in their zone, seemingly putting out much effort but failing time and time again to clear the puck at critical moments. Several attempts to clear were bungled at the blue line as Van Team stepped up to intercept clearing passes. Likewise, on those occasions when the Nordiques were taking the puck into the offensive zone, the team made ill-advised passes at the blue line only to have those passes intercepted again, killing any offensive momentum.
As if all that wasn't disheartening enough, the shoot out turned into a shut out for the Nordiques, failing to score a single goal in the tie-breaker while Van team found the net twice.
There was not one Nordiques player who felt good about earning 1 point for the evening's work. This was an uncharacteristic performance for the Nordiques who so often are the stronger team late in games; the come-from-behind kids. But the team will have to chalk this game up to a lesson learned. Hopefully they will recall this bitter taste in order to avoid a similar fate down the road if this Nordiques team plans to compete for a playoff spot and a meaningful run down the stretch.
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Nordiques send Van Team packing
5SNordiques 2-0 after 5-3 win |
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Stamford April 13, 2011
It's been two weeks since the tier 5-South Nordiques played and won their debut Spring 2011 game. Understandably, the team was hungry to take the ice again after such a long lay off. So it came as no surprise to see the Nordiques' bench teeming with players and brimming with energy tonight to play Van Team, an experienced group that skates and passes well. The Nordiques triumphed 5-3 on strong defense and goal tending, and a balanced offensive effort (4 different goal scorers). Now with a 2-0 record, the Nordiques will have a short turnaround this time and will have to be ready to play Van Team again on Sunday April 17 at 7:30pm.
The Nordiques came out fast and each group of 5 controlled their zones and made plays. The team put several shots on goal but Van Team's net minder was equal to the task. Just past the midway point of the 1st period it was Jack Vartulli scoring from the goalie's left. Before the period ended, Rob Diabarca scored a power play goal off fine pass from David Litvinsky as they broke into the zone 2-on-1.
Van Team responded well to the 2-0 deficit and outscored the Nordiques in the 2nd period by a 2-1 margin. Van Team tied the game 2-2 before Chris Roth banged home the go ahead goal assisted by Scotty Jachimsky and Charlie Roth. There the score remained into the 3rd period and it was as close as Van Team would get. In the third period, the Nordiques defense (Gioia/Bruno, DiMartino and Nordiques newcomer Mike Fillios, Lotti/Masterson) gave Van Team little room to skate, pass or shoot. Goalie Scott Morrissette played his best game yet and moved well from pipe to pipe all game long. He didn't let his team fall behind tonight.
Providing the rest of the scoring was Charlie Roth. His two goals in the third (one PPG with assist to Mike Fillios, Chris Roth) gave his team important two-goal cushions both times. It was a great effort all night by Charlie as it was clear his mechanics were hampered by a lower-body injury. Together with the Chris Roth goal in the 2nd period, it was a Roth brothers hat trick in the second half of the game that propelled the Nordiques to victory tonight.
The injury to Roth may require him to take some time off. If so, this Nordiques team will miss his presence on ice. Team captain Rick Gioia pointed out to reporters that it would be hard to make up for Charlie in the event he becomes side-lined, but Rick also said "the depth of this Nordiques squad is impressive, and we'll be fine". Team veteran Breck Masterson said that despite Van Team's speed and passing efficiency he believes his team has all the weapons to strategically minimize Van Team's opportunities on Sunday. "Like the Gendarmerie royale du Canada pushing back hostiles from higher ground, it was wave after wave of Nordiques doing what they do best: montrant l'esprit vers la victoire!" Everyone in the room was moved by Breck's passion for the game and his team.
Torche Passed
Tonight's victory was the perfect backdrop for the annual passing of the Nordiques Torche trophy. Since 1975, the Quebec Nordiques awarded this very same MVP trophy to its top player. Our team acquired this beautiful piece of historic hardware in 2003 and it is now our Torche MVP trophy. The award can go to the most skilled, the most spirited, and/or the most passionate player. Someone who lifts the team to another level. He must be an emblem for what being a Nordiques player is all about. Which ever description the player fits, he needs to be a difference maker.
The prestigious honor was earned by Justin Matijcio (2010) and presented by former holder Peter DiMartino (2009). Tonight, the award was bestowed upon Tim Matijcio by his brother Justin. "Tim's play has been courageous, skilled, fearless and clutch in every way for the Nordiques over the past year", said Justin as he proudly passed the trophy to his brother's waiting arms.. Alt-Captain DiMartino added "Timmy's accomplishments first earned him the nickname "Highlight Reel" and now those accomplishments have earned him the Torche. Congratulation Tim and welcome to the club!"Tim joins about a dozen other players who's name are inscribed on this trophy.
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6Nordiques top Lightspeed 8-5
Spring record evened to 1-1
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Stamford April 5, 2011
The Nordiques jumped out to a big lead tonight and cruised to an 8-5 victory. It wasn't till late in the 3rd period, with the game well in hand at 7-2, that Lightspeed put up a few goals. After an opening night loss, the Nordiques posted their first T6 win of the spring campaign as they set out to continue their string of tier championships. This is the 2nd loss of the new season for Lightspeed who are coming off a winter playoff appearance as well.
Tonight's goal scorers included Breck Masterson (2), Rick Gioia, Mike Robinson (3), Jack Vartulli and Jim Delorey. Jay D handled the goal tending duties and the Nordiques used 5 defensemen including Holden, Simon, DiMartino, Gioia and Bruno.
The score at the end of 1 was 3-0 and 6-0 at the end of 2. The Nordiques did not take a penalty tonight but benefited from 2 power play opportunities. As the game went on, Lightspeed played better and the Nordiques gave them credit for not giving up and finding way to make some nice plays that resulted in goal scoring opportunities.
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5N Nordiques Can't Solve City Carting Goaltender
Great team effort stymied by hot netminder
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Stamford March 29, 2011
The Nordiques struggles to open the season continued last with a 4-0 loss to City Carting. It was the first time the Nordiques had gone up against this foe and they found out early on that City Carting came to play. The first period was controlled by the opposition as they jumped out to an early 3-0 lead. Jimmy MacDonald did his best to fend off the attack and kept the Nordiques positive moving into the second period.
The rest of the game was won by the Nordiques from goal line to goal line. They pounced hard on loose pucks and forechecked hard in true Nordiques fashion. However, the goal line is where the puck stopped being won by the Nordiques. The City Carting goaltender swallowed up shots from all angles and made up for his team's lack of effort in the final 30 minutes. Point blank one timers from the slot, deflections from point shots, and rebounds were kicked out or held against the pads, sometimes without the goalie even knowing it. City Carting iced the game late in the third with a rebound tally to make it 4-0.
After the final whistle, the Nordiques held their heads high knowing they got to their game after a slow start. They are aware that this season, there will be no easy games.
After the game, soft spoken Doug Eng was quoted as saying, "It's a good reminder every once in a while to realize this group of players were plying their trade in tier 6 a couple of seasons back. We have to work harder than most teams and we are better for it. Avec la perte vient l'adversité. Avec adversité vient resolution. Nous serons meilleurs. Nous n'irons pas tranquillement."
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Nordiques T5S opener a success!
6-2 drubbing of Ice Paddys a "complete win"
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Stamford March 29, 2011
It was good times and great oldies tonight at STR. The Nordiques new T5-South entry easily won their debut game by rolling the new look T5S Ice Paddys 6-2. This is the 3rd consecutive Nordiques victory over Ice Paddys going back to the final 2 games of the winter T6 Championship.
This new team is a compilation of T5 and T6 Nordiques squads with a few new faces, as well as a few players who have been in the Nordiques family (but away from the game) a while. Despite this new blend, the chemistry was great and it was evident both in the locker room and on the ice. The result was as complete a victory as the team could have hoped for in its debut, literally dominating in each zone, and boasting 6 different goal scorers along the way.
The Nordiques welcome a new goal tender to the family. Scott Morrissette is young, energetic and fits the personality of this team perfectly. Scott was tested with some good shots and some scrambles. He played great but said "Je sais que je sera mieux", showing his commitment to improve. The team also welcomes newcomer Mark Lotti to the defensive core. Mark appears to be a very solid and gruff D-man. The team liked him immediately.
Perhaps the best surprise of the night was the return of Anthony Gencarelli after a 2 year hockey hiatus. Most fans already know him as "A-train", the team's T6 winter 2009 championship winning goalie. A-train will be skating "out" for the T5S Nordiques and that's bad news for the rest of the tier ("la vraie affaire"). Also back to the squad is returning winger Rob Diabarca and rough T5/T6 forward Jack Vartulli.
The remaining T5S roster includes C-Rick Gioia, A-Rich Bruno, A-Peter DiMartino, Anit Arora and Mike Robinson, Breck Masterson and Tim Nash, The Bread Line (Steve Hepensteil, Tim and Justin Matijcio), The Vienna Fingers Line (Roth-Jachimsky-Roth), and Ronnie Kim.
Mid way through the first period, the Nordiques opened up the scoring thanks to some gritty corner work by reliable winger Tim Nash. Tim fought for puck possession and eventually hit Gencarelli with a pass as he skated in from the blue line. It was a sharp angle, but A-train's shot was perfect. Minutes later, it was Tim Matijcio converting on a pass down low as he weaved through traffic and released a quick shot from very close proximity and the goalie had no time to react. Later, the teams exchanged 2nd period goals thanks to a long range attempt from Steve Hepensteil who let it fly just as he stepped over the blue line. The game was 3-1 at the end of the 2nd.
The Nordiques blew the game open in the 3rd period by doubling their offensive output. The first of 3 goals that period was a blue line blast from captain Rick Gioia. The puck may have been deflected along the way but found the twine through the masses in front. The Vienna Fingers line produced the next and final 2 Nordiques goals which were credited to center Scott Jachimsky and winger Chris Roth. After the game, Scott commented "Son plaisir d'être de retour sur la glace". His team mates agreed.
The defense was menacing tonight. Helping to hold the Paddys to 2 goals were the defensive pairings of Gioia/Gencarelli, DiMartino/Arora and Masterson/Lotti. Players remarked after the game. "Nous avons très bien joué ce soir. Ity a été un jeu complet pour nous. Nous sommes très satisfaits de notre effort et le niveau d'énergie".
The game took 68 minutes to complete and 19,040 were in attendance.
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6Nordiques drop opener to Anderson
Loose defensive play proves costly
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Stamford March 28, 2011
The Nordiques opened the T6 spring season tonight with a 5-3 loss to Anderson Analytics. The team fell behind early and played catch-up throughout. The Nordiques fought back to one goal deficits, at 3-2 and 4-3, but failed to keep the lid on Anderson's scorers. The win evens Anderson's record at 1-1.
Scoring the first goal of the Nordiques T6 season was James Delorey owing to his gritty, Nordiques-esque play in the crease. Also hitting the score sheets were wingers Breck Masterson and newcomer Jack Vartulli.
The Nordiques had some obvious rust. The 2 week layover from the last winter games was evident. The team was often beaten to the puck and gave Anderson's skaters too much time and space with which to operate. They took advantage by passing the puck and moving well in each zone. Defensively, the Nordiques backed-up much of the night and gave up the neutral zone. Playing with a relatively short bench, (2 forward lines) took its toll in the 3rd period.
The Nordiques welcomed two new players to the roster tonight. Wingers Frank DeSantis and Jack Vartulli join the team and are valuable additions. In addition, full time goal tending responsibilities for the T6 team now belongs to Jay D. Jay played part-time with the Nordiques in the winter, and played very well tonight. He made several difficult saves, but did not get enough help from the guys in front of him.
The T6 Nordiques are looking forward to the next game and are determined to bounce back in a big way.
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Nomads spoil season opener for 5N Nordiques
Second period surge proves to be the difference
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Stamford March 25, 2011
The Nordiques Spring 2011 season got off to a less than smooth start on Friday night, falling to the Nomads 6-3. The team was forced to go with a short bench for the opening game and it proved to be too much to handle. Captain Richard Gioia explained that the short offseason between Winter and Spring season did not allow for him to fully take advantage of the team's fierce workout program. There were no complaints on the bench, but the 6 forwards and 4 defensemen had to spend time conserving energy and couldn't keep up their normal frenzied pace.
New goaltender Jimmy McDonald was a welcome addition to the 5N 'diques. After spending the entire pregame warm ups listening to early 90s dance music, McDonald was feeling "Good Vibrations" about his new surroundings. Nomads shooters were met with taunts of "U Can't Touch This" early on as McDonald held the fort.
Eric Farrell opened the scoring for the Nordiques midway through the first period. Gathering a turnover just inside the blue line, Farrell carried the puck in on his off wing with Justin Matijcio driving hard to the net to create a 2 on 1. Farrell decided to call his own number and put a wrists shot beyond the reaching glove hand of the Nomads goaltender. The Nomads quickly responded to tie it up minutes later with a Nomads forward gathering a loose puck for a top shelf one timer. Gioia gave the Nordiques a lead late in the first with a great effort on a net mouth scramble. Like grabbing the last buffalo wing at Ice View, Gioia dove towards the vacant puck and was able to cash in. The Nordiques led 2-1 at the horn.
The second period proved to be the Nordiques undoing. The Nomads repeatedly hemmed the team in their own zone, cashing in 5 unanswered goals off of second and third chances. McDonald was commendable in net fending off the ferocious attack. The Nordiques also proved to be unlucky with both Farrell and Tim Matijcio ringing shots off the right post. The short bench and long change of the second period also didn't help the cause. When the period ended, the Nordiques found themselves in a 6-2 hole.
The Nordiques got a glimmer of hope early in the third as Farrell created a turnover on a line change and was able to spring himself on a breakaway. He froze the goaltender and was able to sneak another wrists shot through the goaltender. When asked postgame about his breakaway abilities, Farrell said "I like to go into the shot with no idea what I'm going to do. I think it makes the goalie consider all shot possibilities. If I don't know where it's going, how would he?"
Nomad players had to be having flashbacks about their Winter playoff collapse against the Nordiques and turned up their defensive efforts for the rest of the period. Many pucks were put on net, but the Nomads' defenders were able to keep the slot clear of second opportunities. The Nordiques D corp of Gioia, Bruno, Ondo and returning player Steve Dryer did their best to keep the Nordiques in the game, many times providing extra goaltending on loose rebounds. The game ended on a Nordiques power play with the Nomads keeping the puck in the corners away from Nordiques attack.
The Nordiques were sullen but not upset about their opening loss, knowing that the season ahead is long and the competition will be stiff. They will have a chance to redeem themselves Tuesday night at 10:15 with a game against City Carting.
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Nordiques prepare to enter 3 teams in Spring '11
Will battle in T5 North, T5 South and T6
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Stamford March 22, 2011
After a successful winter season that saw both Nordiques teams battle valiantly for their respective division championships, the team is preparing rosters to compete in three tiers for the first time in team history. Virtually all Nordiques will be back again this season. The team will welcome some new additions as well, in order to balance the squads for what is expected to be even stronger competition than last season..
The T5 South Nordiques, having shown they were among the four best in T5 by virtue of their semifinal appearance for the championship, will move to the stronger T5 North for the Spring season. The T6 Nordiques will continue to defend their three consecutive championship titles in that tier against some high-powered out-of-town teams moving into T6 . In order to do so, the T6 team will welcome at least 3 new players to try to replace a powerful first forward line. That line, "the Vienna Fingers" line, along with a selected mix of players from the T5N and T6 Nordiques as well as some new players to the Nordiques family will form a new squad and take on a tough T5 South division. The competition will be strong, and each tier is expected to have at least 8 teams ready to go into battle.
Team rosters and STR league schedules are being finalized this week. The action starts at the end of the week. Commencing a new Spring season, the first T5N Nordiques face-off will drop this Friday March 25 at 9:30pm.
We will continue to update our web pages at www.nordiques.us with game summaries and league standing to keep you, our endearing family and fans in the U.S. and internationally, up to date on the Nordiques season. Look for your team's progress and your favorite players' highlights right here throughout the season. You can also follow us on FB (see Stamford Nordiques page).
Let's Go Nordiques!!
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