The Olds Grizzlys played a pair of games versus the Brooks Bandits over the weekend and as usual, it was a spirited affair.
Olds fell 12-2 in Brooks on New Year's Day.
"You're at a loss for words. You don't want to get embarrassed like that. It's humbling but at the same time, you can't dwell on it," said Grizzlys captain Jack Goranson.
The Grizzlys racked up 100 penalty minutes that game, compared to just 36 for Brooks. Olds also lost Cale Brown, Logan Kerner and Landon Kletke to suspensions. Jesse Baird was the lone Bandits player to be suspended.
In the rematch on Jan. 2 the Grizzlys scratched out a 2-0 lead on the Bandits. However, that lead vanished by the end of the period and Olds eventually lost 5-2. They also lost forward Logan Franz, who was suspended two games for a hit from behind in the second period.
If you watch a game between Olds and Brooks, expect a lot of shoving after whistles, scrums and the occasional fight.
This matchup always gets both sides riled up.
Anger is an invigorating emotion. It raises one's heart rate and serves as motivation for competitors.
However, "you've got to be productive with your energy. Getting angry only gets you so far," Goranson said.
Amidst the rising tensions, there's always a need to remember: beat your opponent on the scoreboard first.
"If they're taking liberties on our goalie, that's something where you have to step in and gauge if it's worth it to send yourself to the box or not. Emotion comes into play as well but you have to distinguish when it's worth it and when it isn't."
Goranson said he's fielded a few inquiries from collegiate hockey programs but other than that, "there hasn't been a lot of action going on."
The 20-year-old defenceman isn't letting the uncertainty of what happens after junior hockey get to him.
"You can think about it as much as you want but it isn't going to get you anywhere. You've got to put the work in because that's what gets results," he said.
"I don't think about it a whole lot. Whatever happens, happens. All I can do is go out and play."
"If they're taking liberties on our goalie, that's something where you have to step in and gauge if it's worth it to send yourself to the box or not. Emotion comes into play as well but you have to distinguish when it's worth it and when it isn't."JACK GORANSONCAPTAIN OLDS GRIZZLYS
