Record first regulation loss of the season

Boston, MA. – The Florida Jr. Blades returned home on Sunday, January 8 after winning three out of four games at the Eastern Junior Winter Showcase at the New England Sports Center. The weekend’s single loss was Florida’s first regulation loss of the season. The Jr. Blades fell 4-2 vs. the EJHL South Shore Kings from Foxboro, MA.

The Jr. Blades still own a 25-1-1 record and lead the Empire southern conference with 51 points, nine points ahead of the second place Atlanta Knights. The last time the Jr. Blades recorded less than two points in a single game was in a 2-1 shootout loss to the Atlanta Knights on October 7, 2011. The Jr. Blades remain undefeated on home ice.

“The South Shore game is definitely a disappointment,” said head coach Tad O’Had. “We will use this loss as a way to motivate us to perform at a higher degree.”

Four Jr. Blades share the title of weekend leader in points, all registering three points: captain blue liner James Hyatt (11g, 13a, 24pt), forward Josh Koerner (26g, 25a, 51pt), defenseman Ross Kovacs (6g, 12a, 18pt) and winger Eryn Siracusa (12g, 27a, 39pt).

Over 120 scouts representing Hockey East, ECAC Hockey, and Atlantic Hockey schools, as well as nearly every NCAA Division III school from the Eastern United States attended. Several scouts from professional teams also saw the games throughout the weekend.

“The EJHL Showcase was an excellent opportunity for our club to continue to compete against the best from the North with such powerhouse programs,” said O’Had. “We were able to show we are battle tested and get our players showcased to elite colleges and scouts.”

The Jr. Blades return home Thursday, January 12 vs. the Tampa Bay Juniors. Puck drops at 7:30 at Germain Arena.

Game 1:

New Hampshire Jr. Monarchs – 2, Jr. Blades – 4

Game 2:

NY Apple Core – 3, Jr. Blades 4

Game 3:

Capital District Selects – 3, Jr. Blades 6

Game 4:

South Shore Kings – 4, Jr. Blades 2

GAME SHEETS: http://www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/teamschedule.html?teamid=327258&seasonid=7391