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A Mighty Wind

November 4, 2003 - Central Hockey League (CHL) News Release


On November 3rd, 2002, the 2002-2003 edition of the Wichita Thunder posted win number one of the season. December 7th, 2002, they managed just their fifth win of the year en route to a disappointing 21-36-7 record and a last place finish in the Northwest Division. In a remarkable turnaround, the revamped Thunder have enjoyed a 5-1-0 record to begin the 2003-2004 campaign, and sit atop their division for the first time since February of 1999.

Coach Derek Laxdal took over the team midway through last year, and with a full off-season off preparation, has dramatically changed not only the team personnel, but instilled an fresh attitude and a defense-first approach that has the Thunder competitive each and every game.

Also playing a significant role in the Thunder's resurgence is outstanding special teams play. Wichita has allowed just one goal against while facing 28 opposition power plays. Average Thunder goals against per game are down to 3.17 from last season's 4.08, while the team is averaging 9.5 more shots for per game than their opponent, after taking 4.37 shots less per game than opponents last season. Also of key importance has been the Thunder's ability to come through in close games. In fact, their five victories have all been by a single goal, including a pair of overtime wins.

Only five players return from last season for the Thunder, including talented forwards Travis Clayton and Jason Duda, linemates much of the past five seasons. The new addition to the line is former Toronto Maple Leaf Mark Kolesar, who has immediately made an impact. In just six games this season, the trio have accounted for nine goals, 16 assists and 25 points. Next up for the new look Thunder is a road game this evening against the New Mexico Scorpions, who hold a 5-1-0 career record against Wichita. "We're happy we're playing well," Laxdal told the Wichita Eagle last week, "but we're not where we want to be yet."

Pointstreak Performance of the Week

Odessa goaltender Joel Martin put on an incredible display November 1st in a 1-0 overtime loss to the Indianapolis Ice. The Toronto Road Runners (AHL) assignee made 44 saves in regulation play before allowing the game-winning goal 2:03 into overtime. In two games with the Jackalopes the 21-year old native of Three Hills, Alberta has a record of 0-1-1 despite a goals against average of 1.98 and a save percentage of .940. Martin was assigned to Odessa by Toronto on October 23rd.

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Central Hockey League Stories from November 4, 2003


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