Learning from experience

The spring South West Spring League hockey season got under way for Jaguar Squirt 3 this past weekend, and while the results were not what was hoped for, the games marked a first for several members of the team.

With several members of Jaguar Squirt 3 having played at the ADM Major level in the fall -- and due to some issues with tournaments that were previosly discussed here -- Saturday's game against the Bruins marked the first opportunity for those players to compete against someone not also wearing a Jaguar uniform.

While most of the kids were adverse to admitting it, it seemed to this more-than-casual viewer that the immensity of the moment and reality of the stepped-up competition had the Jaguars off their game, especially early in the opener (which they lost to the Bruins at Addison Ice by a 9-0 score). And while the team got off to a slow start, growth and learning was evident throughout the game.

Between the opening puck drop and the closing horn, the Squirt 3 players seemed to gain an understanding of where they should be positioned on the ice and the importance of speed and accurate passing. They were lessons that the team can grow on as the season progresses.

That fact was in evidence on Sunday, when Squirt 3 again took to the ice -- this time against the Chicago Hawks at Darien Sportsplex.

The Jaguars came out with an entirely different attitude and appearance for that game, proving to themselves and their fans that they could indeed hold their own with the other teams in the National Division of the Blue Tier of the Squirt Division. While the Jaguars were again shutout, the final tally was just 3-0.

The Jaguars held the Hawks scoreless through the whole of the first period, not giving up the first goal until nearly half of the second period had expired. The Jaguars had their share of scoring opportunities in the game, which was highlights by some strong play on the defensive end of the ice and outstanding goaltending by both the Squirt 3's net minders.

Squirt 3 now has approximately two weeks to work on the necessary skills highlighted in this past weekend's performance before taking to the ice again on Sunday, April 29, at 12:50 p.m. in a game against the Admirals at Center Ice of DuPage.

The season is over ... let the season begin

Just a quick one to let you know that Jaguar Hockey Dad is alive and well and gearing up for a new season.  The details of the Fall 2011-12 season and how it wound up will remain below, but our focus and that of the Jaguar Hockey Club has already switched to practices for the Spring 2012 season.

Information remains sparse right now, as the South West Spring League in which the Jaguars play has yet to update its website for the season and scheduling of games will not actually take place until Wednesday, April 11. After that, I will begin trying to do some research on opponents and determine what lies ahead.

Until then, Squirt #2 -- the top team of Squirts born in 2003 -- and Squirt #3 -- the second-level team of Squirts born in 2002 -- will continue practicing and preparing for the season.

More to follow soon.