>> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

[RITProf]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

I'll be rooting for BC to wipe the floor with them.

Me too. I'll leave it at that.

And, yes, congrats to the women!!!!

 

[bjdrit]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

I don't like excuses in the first place, but this is one of the ****tier ones I've ever seen. Both teams played last night, RIT played a whopping 3 minutes more (and the momentum of beating a team they've never beaten at D1 should have at least negated the 3 hour difference in start time from the night before).

It's crap. RIT was not nearly as good as Air Force this year, and frankly, they probably weren't as good as Niagara either (anything can happen in a one game playoff. Similar to how RIT was the better team last year but AF beat them in the final)

It's not an excuse. There's a reason the #1 seed plays in the earlier game -- it's an advantage. And, Air Force earned that advantage by topping RIT in the standings. Air Force -- already one of the best conditioned teams out there -- clearly had more energy than RIT. Wilson said it in the paper today. I think Air Force was a better team than RIT. Period. But, RIT looked especially spent yesterday and rarely could even threaten. They looked lifeless. It's nice to think momentum can carry you, but beating Niagara in OT, versus Air Force's easier win that concluded four hours earlier, was hardly enough for RIT.

I actually thought RIT outplayed Niagara, although RIT's slow defense almost cost them a few times. No doubt, Air Force was the better team yesterday and this year. And, frankly, they'll do a better job representing the AHA than RIT could have with this year's team. Good luck to them. I personally have no reason to dislike Air Force -- I think they're a classy hockey program. As an RIT fan, I would have liked to see more PPs, but saw little reason for the ref to offer them, Air Force is always the best conditioned team around, and overall they're well coached. Good for them, and I hope they represent the AHA well -- as sick as I may be of seeing them own the BCA. (Frankly, the only reason I see for disliking AF was the antics of a few folks from another team of theirs that security got to chase around last night -- but, at least it gave us some entertainment late in the game!)

 

[redhotzep96]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

No matter how they've performed, I'm going to miss this senior class. Period.

 

[cplinford]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

This reminded me very much of the 2008. I don't know what magic Air Force has at the BCA but RIT has yet to score a goal against them in 3 tries. Very frustrating to see the team lose two years in a row like this.

While scoring was down I did like the senior class and wished them a better end to their season. They got 2 monkeys off our back (brick city, NU) so next year its time to get number 3 done

 

[redhotzep96]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

I don't know what magic Air Force has at the BCA but RIT has yet to score a goal against them in 3 tries. Very frustrating to see the team lose two years in a row like this.

“There isn’t no magic,” said Serratore. “The magic is getting better as a team. We’ve been coming here with good teams that have played their best hockey this time of year.”

http://www.uscho.com/recaps/2012/03...ic-hockey-title-in-six-seasons/#ixzz1pTxa7MOS

 

[komey1]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

I think the best way to describe this year's team is inconsistant. On their best days, they can beat just about anyone - see the Ferris State and Lake Superior State games. On their worst days, we see what happens.

I'm going on record to say that we may not make it to Blue Cross next year. AF has 2 more seasons with Torf, Bentley looks like they will be a factor, Mercyhurst has some good young talent. RIT loses a LOT this year. It's going to be interesting.

 

[Zyklon]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

I'm going on record to say that we may not make it to Blue Cross next year. AF has 2 more seasons with Torf, Bentley looks like they will be a factor, Mercyhurst has some good young talent. RIT loses a LOT this year. It's going to be interesting.

There is a lot of talent coming in next year. We are getting bigger and we have a lot of budding stars. Personally, I think next year could be better, however I will miss this years class as they have meant a lot to this program and each individually has contributed in their own way.

As far as next year goes, I'll name the 5 current players/groups I think to watch out for.

Colavecchia - I think he will have an even bigger season, he's the most consistent player and in my opinion looks the most complete and ready of our players to go to the next level.
Saracino/Potts - Combined them, because they had the same issue this year. They were going to have gigantic years and if they can be healthy next year they should be good.
Garbowsky/McGowan - Line mates this year, should stay together next year. They seem to be only getting better and look to have a lot of potential, look for them to have better years.
Ruby/Watson - Both were extremeley highly touted recruits, look for it to be a competition from the start and for whichever wins to put up huge numbers, equal or better than some of Madolora's.
Brownell - Yep, the freshman defenseman. He played 2 games, but he's a big guy at 6'4" and he suffered with injuries that basically killed his season. I think he might end up being an anchor on the defense next year. It's a long shot, but I like his shot. He reminded me a bit of Tanev when I saw him play.

 

[TigerFan86-87]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

No matter how they've performed, I'm going to miss this senior class. Period.

I thought this senior class was one of the best within their roles. Goaltending, Defense, Heart, Grit, and Character. Unfortunately, the top flight scoring came from classes that had already graduated and or have yet to mature or arrive.
I can't think of one player from this batch of seniors that I wouldn't want on my team. A few of them made up the young part of the core of the team that dominated AHA and made the miracle run to the Frozen Four in 2010. The class of 2012 will be missed for sure. I will admit that I could be a little biased being that I will be graduating from my Masters program here at RIT this year, too. So Go Class of 2012! It's been a fun ride.

 

[LtPowers]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

I agree with Zyklon. (And TigerFan). I'm not really worried about next year. We've got two good goalies; Garbowsky and McGowan are only going to get better; Thompson and Reid will come along; Potts and Saracino are due for breakout seasons. We'll still have Hartley on faceoffs and Mitchell can still score goals. Our incoming players look great on paper, possibly even better than this year's.

If I have a concern, it's the D-line. Descoteaux and Raibl will really need to step up their games.


Powers &8^]

 

[ken66]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

I'm happy to see all the positive comments here, and I think there's a lot to be positive about in the future. This season had an odd "feel" to it right from the beginning. The officious and bureaucratic NCAA took away the #1 player for 5 games on a silly technicality, and too many early games only dressed five defensmen. Still, a good tourny win, and giving Wisconson all it could handle for a while were a noteworthy highlight midseason. We all seem to agree that Colavecchia is a comer, and I want to throw Adam Mitchell's name in here as a player who started playing "bigger" as the season went on. We can use him in front of the net. In particular, I will miss seeing Scott Knowles on the ice. He was one player who skated with Air Force all game long. Thx to the players and coaches for a great season. I'm only disappointed because the team's overall good play keeps me wanting more.

 

[Tom Naeger]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Well no question right now who is the best in Atlantic Hockey. I really felt RIT stole that title from Air Force when they went to the frozen four and then Air Force stole part of it back of it back last year with a 1-0 win at Blue Cross. This year they firmly out played RIT to leave no doubt they are the best in the AHA. I think there is a legit question of would RIT have made the Frozen Four two years ago if they had faced Air Force in the AHA Finals. RIT and Air Force has been close in about every game, but the record at Blue Cross is as bout as mind blowing as the winless streak RIT had against Niagara.

This season saw it�s up and down, no doubt. 20 wins, a couple of wins against ranked teams, beating Niagara, and getting back to the Championship are all impressive accomplishments. This senior class was big over four years, it is really tough because they set the bar so high but this was clearly their worst season. But you cannot question their heart.

Cameron Burt should have been nicked named the dark knight. He was loved and hated so many different times. He had some trouble handling criticism, and I thought much of it was unfair at times. However sometime he just tried to do too much, but either way was one of the best play makers I have ever seen at RIT.

Mark Cornacchia and Scott Knowles are two of the best penalty killers I have ever seen in college hockey. It was all most fun taking penalties to watch these two go to work. Wished they could have found a bit more of a scoring touch but there work on the PK more than made up for it.

Chris Haltigin showed flashes of being a great scoring defenseman. He always worked hard and played solid. He lead by example, he like everyone else seem to have trouble making sure this team showed up every night, but it was not for a lack of his effort.

Taylor McReynolds was RIT best player in the playoffs. He was the kind of player I wished the Sabres had, tough and not afraid to stick up for anyone. He was much better at controlling his emotions as an upper classman.

Daniel Spivak officially established the Spivak line for scoring. However he was solid on the defense end. I still think he was the Tigers Unsung hero for the frozen four year.

Shane Madolora did everything you could as a goaltender but win the big game. However there is no way you can win a championship game if nobody scores a goal. He was perhaps the most solid goaltender I have seen at RIT, if he was set, he stopped the puck about 98% of the time.

I share some concerns that RIT may have another tough year next year. There a lot of talent in there, but all most seems like a team that may be in between. I am going to break it down more, but want to end this post before I go to long. And do want to end by thanking all of the Senior for 4 great years�

 

[redhotzep96]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

http://www.royalshockey.com/news/news.asp?story_id=1741

Spivak to the Reading Royals!!

 

[Ed Trefzger]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Cameron Burt should have been nicked named the dark knight.

Umm ... no.

 

[Tom Naeger]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

RIT has a lot of talent coming back for next year. However they will have more questions going into next year than any other Tiger year. Had a very good conversation this weekend with people from different media outlets and schools about the state of the AHA. There was some real question of rather this was the year of the goaltender or just a down year for the AHA. Was surprised to find that many, like me, felt this was the first down year for the AHA in a long time. Yes there some good goaltenders, but many teams just packed it in down low and even the top teams did not have the snipers to make them pay.

RIT has to be considered in the top 4, but not the top team. It will be a struggle as it was this year to get back to the Championship unless someone break out. Honestly I think it going to be fun, RIT needs to go out with something to prove next year. Here some thoughts on the players coming back. This is just some honest thoughts, not trying to go after anyone or make anyone look good. Just some straight forward comments…

Nolan Descoteaux – Need to improve his skating for next season. Thought his sophomore year was a bit of a slumper. He has a great shot, but it worthless if he can’t get open for a shot.

Michael Colavecchia – RIT best player all year outside of Mads. Given what he went through with his father's arrest I am amazed. He has to shot for 20 goals next season.

Brad McGowan – Very good Freshman year, one of two freshmen that was on the most consistent line for RIT. Needs double digits in Goals next year for RIT to be back where they want to be.

Eliot Raibl – I thought he was a bit of an unsung hero this year like Spivak a few years ago. Got playing time with Saracino going down. Thought he gave the Tigers all he could this year. Question will be is there more for next year?

Matt Garbowsky – The other half of RIT's best line all year for the tigers. Thought he was the best Freshman this year. If he can keep from the sophomore slump I think RIT will be riding high next year.

Ben Lynch – Another bit of a sophomore slump, did not do much to hurt the Tigers. He was playing on a much different line this year. Needs to step it up on the scoring sheet next year.

Brad Reid – Like his big frame and played well at times. One of many guys I’d like to see spend time in the weight room and become a power forward next year.

Bryan Potts – Oh what if you did not get hurt? Team looking for an offense, he needs to provide some for next season.

Adam Mitchell – Played well this season, another sophomore who found out it gets tougher not easier. Will be looking for at least 10 goals from Mr. Mitchell for next season.

Greg Noyes – At times I thought he played great, especially at the start of the season I thought he was horrible. He has all the skills, but makes wrong decisions at some bad moments. I feel he has it in him and has to be more solid next year.

Jeff Smith – Streaky, scored some big goals. Another guy who needs at least 10 goals next season.

Adam Hartley – Still like to see him hit the weights a little more next year. All most too nice of a guy on the ice. Seems to not get to a rebound unless it comes right to him. I tell you all I really want to see him run a guy over and score a goal in the worst way.

Stuart Brownell – What I saw in Sacred Heart games I liked. To be honest I’d like to ask Wayne Wilson why he did not give him a few more games considering some of the guys slumping and the injury to Saracino. Look forward to seeing some more for him next year.

Chirs Saracino – Have to wonder about him for next year, Head injuries are so scary. Need a big leader next season, needs to lead by example and be vocal.

Brandon Thompson – Solid, especially as the season ended. Has to get involved in the offense more next season.

Josh Watson & Jordan Ruby – Like both of them. Knowing Wayne, I think Watson gets the first start and Ruby the next. Then they keep swapping till someone wins the job. They may have to be big if RIT doesn’t rediscover its scoring touch.

RIT has lots to look forward to and just as many questions. Need to hit the ice with a chip on their shoulder and more consistent effort. Goals all remind the same.

For now I wish everyone a great season and will see you next year at the Ritter! Go Easy All!

 

[Tom Naeger]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Umm ... no.

Now I would expect that from Lerch not you. Only a metaphor to the movie where Batman was loved and then hated..

 

[Ed Trefzger]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Now I would expect that from Lerch not you. Only a metaphor to the movie where Batman was loved and then hated..

Too many people can take that the wrong way. It's better in this era to avoid any sort of comment that could be misconstrued.

 

[Bing]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Just looking at some stats on scoring because it seemed like we had a lot of trouble racking up the goals.

This season: 99 goals scored vs. 86 goals allowed (20-13-6 record)

2010-2011: 128 goals scored vs. 99 allowed (19-11-8 record)

2009-2010: 145 goals scored vs. 90 allowed (granted, the extra games we played in the NCAA playoffs increased the goal total) (28-12-1 record)

It seems that this season we were missing an extra 30 goals.

 

[mar7967]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Just looking at some stats on scoring because it seemed like we had a lot of trouble racking up the goals.

This season: 99 goals scored vs. 86 goals allowed (20-13-6 record)

2010-2011: 128 goals scored vs. 99 allowed (19-11-8 record)

2009-2010: 145 goals scored vs. 90 allowed (granted, the extra games we played in the NCAA playoffs increased the goal total) (28-12-1 record)

It seems that this season we were missing an extra 30 goals.

Other contributing factors are fewer games against the east and better goaltending all around the league.

 

[LtPowers]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

A little off-topic, but RIT has a women's hockey press conference scheduled for tomorrow morning. Anyone have details, and whether the Corner Crew's presence is desired like it was for the men?


Powers &8^]

 

[MattS]

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

Re: >> RIT Tigers 2011-12 Part II: Making Some Noise at the House that Roars <<

RIT has a lot of talent coming back for next year. However they will have more questions going into next year than any other Tiger year. Had a very good conversation this weekend with people from different media outlets and schools about the state of the AHA. There was some real question of rather this was the year of the goaltender or just a down year for the AHA. Was surprised to find that many, like me, felt this was the first down year for the AHA in a long time. Yes there some good goaltenders, but many teams just packed it in down low and even the top teams did not have the snipers to make them pay.

RIT has to be considered in the top 4, but not the top team. It will be a struggle as it was this year to get back to the Championship unless someone break out. Honestly I think it going to be fun, RIT needs to go out with something to prove next year.

.
.
.
.
.

RIT has lots to look forward to and just as many questions. Need to hit the ice with a chip on their shoulder and more consistent effort. Goals all remind the same.

For now I wish everyone a great season and will see you next year at the Ritter! Go Easy All!

Tom you are either getting smart in your old age or I am because I agree with most, in fact almost all, of what you wrote.

A few of my own thoughts....

I think it was an overall down year for the top tier of the AHA more than the goaltending being above and beyond outstanding.

As I reflect the thing I am most disappointed in this season was the play and subsequent drop off of production by the Seniors. Their play was certainly not what I, and I think most of us, expected out of them. Most maddening was the inconsistency.

Another area I was disappointed in was the play of the Freshman. I think Gabrowsky and McGowan had decent first years and I hope they develop into something special. But I was not overwhelmed by them and was certainly not by the remaining three freshman. I had higher hopes for Wilson and Co. to recruit a better class as these guys were the first year to be recruited, with plenty of time, after the Frozen Four appearance. I would have thought that appearance would have helped recruit better players but so far it hasn't. The incoming class next year will certainly cement if the FF appearance had any up side as far as Wilson and Co. ability to recruit better players.