Brahmas 2007-08 Season In Review

April 25, 2008 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Fort Worth Brahmas News Release


NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas (April 25)- It has been said that success is not a destination but instead a journey, and what a journey it has been for the Texas Brahmas. The Brahmas have been the epitome of success this season defeating the odds as the 'comeback kids' after taking a one-year hiatus from the Central Hockey League (CHL).

The 2007-08 season was all about introductions to Brahmas fans. With a new home venue at the NYTEX Sports Centre in North Richland Hills and a new team name, Texas Brahmas, the franchise had few resemblances from the 2005-06 team. Behind the bench was an even stranger sight as former CHL All Stars and Brahma rivals Dan Wildfong and Forbes MacPherson took positions as Head Coach and Assistant Coach.

Texas Brahmas General Manager Mike Barack is proud of the accomplishments the team found in the 2007-08 season.

"This season was extremely rewarding," said Barack. "I could not be more excited about our story which showed our resurgence both on and off the ice."

A few milestones from the Texas Brahmas remarkable comeback 2007-08 season:

- The Brahmas finished the regular season with a 40-22-2 record. The 40 victories are tied for 2nd in franchise history. Texas ended the season as the league's hottest team as they went 23-5-1 in their last 29 games.

- Texas finished with 82 points, which was 5th in the 17 team CHL.

- Captain Blair Manning scored his 500th CHL career point.

- Goaltender David Cacciola won his 50th CHL career game.

- Forward Scott Sheppard recorded his 100th CHL career goal.

- Brahmas standout defenseman Justin Kinnunen was invited and competed in the CHL All-Star Game in January.

- Rookie forward Tyler Skworchinski was named to the CHL All-Rookie team.

- The Brahmas and the NYTEX Sport Centre had five sell outs; four in the regular season and one playoff game.

- The Brahmas reached the CHL playoffs for the first time since the 2000-

01 season.

- Texas was able make it to the Northern Conference Finals, coming only one game and one goal short of the Finals. They defeated the Mississippi RiverKings in the Semi-Finals and swept the Governor's Cup champions, the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs in the Quarterfinals. They extended the defending President Cup champion Colorado Eagles to the final minute of the 7th game before the season concluded.

Though the season has come to an end, Head Coach Dan Wildfong is proud of the achievements his team made in their first year.

"The boys played unbelievable hockey throughout the year. Even when we hit a rough patch midway in the season, the guys represented true character and were able to adjust their game. Nobody should be hanging their heads in disappointment. I'm proud of the team, the city and our fans for an outstanding season," said Wildfong.

"It has been quite a ride for the Brahmas players, staff and especially the fans," said NYTEX President Frank Trazzera. "The fans had our back all season and we truly appreciate their encouragement and excitement. The future looks very bright for the Brahmas and I am anxious to see what awaits us all for next season."

The Texas Brahmas wish to thank all of those who have supported them in their inaugural season in North Richland Hills. Season tickets for the 2008-09 season are available now. For ticket information please contact the Brahmas offices at (817) 336-4423.



Central Hockey League Stories from April 25, 2008


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