Headed into the 2016-17 GTHL season, the Minor Atom AA Toronto Wolverines weren’t a team that would exactly strike fear into their opponents. Made up of seven players from tier three Minor Novice, two from house league, and three underage players, the season wasn’t anticipated to be a lamplighter for the rookie squad.
“From the start, they may not have been most talented but the chemistry worked,” explained parent Pat DiCapo. “The team is coached by an incredible guy who cares about the kids and teaches them about hard work and succeeding with adversity.”
The comradery of the Wolverines translated to an impressive on-ice performance, and soon enough, the team found themselves climbing up the regular season standings.
“I think we did well because we played as a team and worked hard,” said Owen Ronson, who will be rejoining the Wolverines for the upcoming 2017-18 season. “I hope we have another season like the last one.”
By season’s end, the Wolverines were able to finish second in the regular season standings with a 29-4-3 record – missing out on the Kraft Cup by only a single point. Head Coach Mario Boscarino wouldn’t let his team’s Cinderella season stop there. Having already won all three tournaments entered, the Wolverines would advance to the Minor Atom AA West finals, eventually losing to the Toros, who would go on to become the GTHL Champions for the Minor Atom AA loop.
“People lose sight of the reason we play GTHL hockey,” added DiCapo. “Kids are learning life skills respect, teamwork, commitment, dedication, and friendship. Never forget the reasons we play and success will always follow.”
More than half of the team is set to return to the Wolverines next year with hopes for similar success.
Recap of Minor Atom AA Toronto Wolverines 2016-17 season:
- Finished second in regular season standings
- 1st place finish – Paul Coffey Tournament
- 1st place finish – CanAm Challenge Cup
- 1st place finish – Wolverine Classic
- Lost in West Semi-Finals – Scotiabank GTHL Playoffs
