Go West, young skaters

Creede Burton (#1) celebrates Devon Jackson's (#15) first goal against Chazy last weekend. Photo by Frank Flynn.

The Warrior Mites headed to Chazy, NY this weekend to play two games against the Chazy Orange and Black teams. A handful of bundled fans huddled up next to the boards at the chilly Scott's rink in Chazy. In the first period, Captain Brendan Green scored igniting the team. Tyler Perry soon followed with his own goal assisted by Liam Flynn. Green picked up another goal ending the first period 3-0, with Milton ahead.

Eager to keep moving and stay warm, the boys kept the lines rotating nicely in the second period. Devon Jackson made his first goal for the full ice team early in the period. Liam Fersing scored twice, both unassisted, and one all the way from the blue line. Logan Lusignan stayed centered in front of the Chazy net for his goal opportunity, bringing the score to 7-1.

Milton took their lead as achance to work on their passing skills. The third period looked like a game of keep away in front of the Chazy goal. Special note should be made of Aidan Flynn and his first goaltending experience this season. Barely as tall as the net, Flynn's quick reflexes and alertness broke all stereotypes of "big" goalies. Milton won 7-3.

Later that day, the Mites met with a more aggressive team from Chazy. The Black team showed more confidence and speed than the Orange as they scored easily in the first period. Chazy's second goal early in the second period had the crowd wondering if the mites had frozen up between games. But Brendan Green quickly adapted to his new role in the net and did not allow another to slip by. Amazing defense by Eric Roy and Creede Burton pushed the puck to the Chazy end and the Warriors attacked. Two goals by Andrew McQuinn, assisted both times by Liam Fersing, and another goal by Eric Roy put the team back on track as they ended the second period ahead 3-2. Roy picked up the hustle award for the game.

Chazy's power play put more pressure on the Warriors in the 3rd period, but the foursome of Fersing, Perry, Roy and Carswell killed the penalty with their strong teamwork. Andrew McQuinn scored again for a hat trick, assisted by Devon Jackson. Cole Gaudette showed off his improved stick handling around the Chazy players, and Liam Flynn pushed offensive rushes to the boards with speed and finesse. Another goal by Andrew McQuinn led the boys to a second victory that day, Liam Fersing received the playmaker award, and the game ended 5-2.

On Sunday, the team faced off with the fast skaters from South Burlington and as always the Mites had a challenging game. CSB scored 3 times in the first period.

In the second period, Liam Fersing and Brendan Green had breakaways but couldn't seem to net the puck. Jacob Carswell picked up the speed, but the game was stalled as he lost his footing and was sent into the boards.

After the two games on Saturday, the Warriors were put to the test against the three full offensive lines of CSB. Brendan Green scored the only goal for the Warriors in the third period, but CSB came out on top, 6-1.

Along with the loss comes the opportunity to grow for our mites. This team continues to improve from week to week, and represents our community with athleticism, dedication and a true love of hockey.

Don't miss their next game on Saturday, Dec. 8, at 2:20 p.m. in St. Albans. They'll make you proud!

submitted by Val Perry