The HPL Major Atoms lost their final game of the year to Elgin Middlesex, but didn’t go down without a fight. Before going into the Elgin Middlesex series, the HPL Major Atoms had won their last 9 games played, 3 in regular season and 3 straight wins against Brantford and 3 straight wins against Waterloo in playoffs.
The HPL Major Atoms entered into Game # 1 of the Elgin Middlesex series short 2 players due to an injury and a suspension. Elgin came out flying and caught the Lakers off guard and went on to win 6 – 1. After regrouping, the Lakers were ready for game # 2, but were still short 2 players. It was the best team effort of the series, but the Lakers once again lost 6 – 1. For game # 3 this would be the first time the Lakers would dress a full line up, but once again Elgin Middlesex came out flying and were getting the bounces. The Lakers battled hard every shift they were on the ice and never gave up as they scored the last goal of the series, but lost 6 – 2. Elgin Middlesex is rated # 3 in Ontario, and have a every good chance on winning the Ontario Championship Tournament in Oakville in April.
After 55 practices and 64 games, the HPL Major Atoms finished the season with a 37 – 22 – 5 record. The main goal for this team at the start of the year was to develop Team Play, which will be a key factor in the success of this 1997 team for years to come as they move through the Lakers system. The Coaching Staff feels the team accomplished this goal and now understand that Hockey is a Team Game and it’s easier played as a team.
The HPL Major Atoms would like to thank all their fans and sponsors for their support throughout the year.