After a few hours sleep I don't feel any better about the loss but still think it's been a great season. The last game watching the seniors is always tough for me. I hate to see anyone lose their last game but I guess somebody has to in any sport. This years group, while not large, have made huge contributions to the program and will be sorely missed.
Justin Agosta - a 5th year transfer came in with high expectations and a solid resume. While his on-ice performance was viewed by many as average at best, I think his maturity and leadership probably helped the team more than his play. I do feel we were a better team with him then we would have been without him.
Alex Barron - what can be said about a guy who came to every game not knowing where he was going to play? He's been an integral part of this squad for the past 3 seasons (NCAA regulations are stealing his last year from him and us). Every time he's on the ice he knows his roll and performs it with intensity. He seemed to really blossom this year and was a defacto co-captain IMHO. In case nobody noticed, Alex was always the last one off he ice after warmups, standing at the gate waiting to give each and every one of his teammates a pat on the back as they left the ice.
Danny Federico - I remember the first time I saw him... thinking he was a clumsy kid who would never be a starter. Wow, was I wrong. Danny has become one of the best defensemen to ever wear the blue & gold. His hard work paid off and he became a solid, consistent d-man who bailed us out on the PK more times than I can recall. I will miss looking for him to dig the puck out of the corner and let it sail down the ice.
Matt Peca - I'm not sure what to say about Matt expect "exciting". Who will ever forget his performance in Providence where he single-handedly destroyed a stout Union squad sending us to Pittsburgh? The kid has only one gear... high. His compete level is off the charts and I can't think of too many other Bobcats that were able to do what he did. Truly a pleasure to watch over the last 4 years and he will leave a huge hole to be filled.
To these 4 young men, thank you. It's been an honor and a pleasure to watch each of you play. You have contributed to a program that has reached a level many of us thought wouldn't happen for quite a while. Hopefully there's still some hockey to be played in your futures. Even if you never lace up a pair of skates again, best of luck in your future endeavors.
To the rest of the team, thank you for an entertaining season. The talent returning next year makes me certain we can and will make another run for a successful season. There's absolutely no shame in the way the season ended. It was an exciting ride that came up just a little short. You'll have another shot at it soon (but not soon enough for me... is it October yet?).
