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USHL Madison Capitols

Capitols' Roller Coaster Opening Year Lays Groundwork for Future

April 8, 2015 - United States Hockey League (USHL)
Madison Capitols News Release


Madison, WI - As he looked back on a journey that began as an undrafted, older brother of a Capitols' tendered player, Freddy Gerard was overcome with emotion.

Just 10 months after he arrived at Capitol Ice Arena in Middleton, hopeful for a chance to be a part of the expansion Madison Capitols roster, he sits poised to complete what was perhaps as successful as any player could have had in a one-season career in the USHL. The 21-year-old leads Madison with 18 goals while playing in all 58 games. Only two USHL players recorded more shorthanded goals than Gerard's five tallies this season. He also holds a team-best plus-eight rating.

On top of those numerical accolades, the Rocky River, Ohio native also fulfilled a lifelong dream, committing to play his NCAA hockey at Ohio State University. Gerard was also named the second captain in Capitols' history prior to their game in Cedar Rapids on March 6.

"From day one, I wanted to take things one step at a time," said Gerard. "I've created a lot of great memories with some amazing people and some amazing coaches. I'm so blessed to have been able to have this opportunity."

Capitols Head Coach Luke Strand looks back fondly on his captain's journey.

"All these guys go through the root of their person to make the player," said Strand. "(Freddy) found his way in the door; he didn't let the door close or hit him in the butt; he plowed it over. He has made others around him better every day."

In a season that will finish Saturday with the Capitols missing the playoffs, the lack of postseason play did not dampen what was a monumental return of USHL hockey to Madison after 19 years on the periphery.

So much of the junior hockey experience transcends hockey, and for Strand, one factor, one word, both on and off the ice, sums up his favorite memories of the 2014-15 season.

"The growth," said Coach Strand. "I don't know if there's one experience that pops more than others. You're always proud to see these guys grow, to see what players pick up on (team goals and standards) right away. There are huge steps we've taken here and there's more to come."

Perhaps no one experienced a bigger whirlwind year than the head coach. After arriving in Madison in May from the Sioux City Musketeers, the Eau Claire, Wisconsin native still poignantly recalls camp's opening day almost 10 months later.

"I can remember the opening day speech. I can remember their eyes, I can remember their heads, I can remember the nuance of the new billet families and families dropping their kids off at the door," said Strand.

More than 20 years removed from his final junior hockey game, Strand used his memories to provide the ultimate message to his young, first-year team.

"In reflection, I remember my junior teammates like the back of my hand," explained Strand. "You don't forget these days, but you better be on top of your day, every day, to make it count."

Almost 60 games later, it is safe to say junior hockey matters in Madison once again, almost a generation of junior players later.

Madison ends the season with two home games this Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. against the Muskegon Lumberjacks. Tickets are available by visiting www.madcapshockey.com or by calling (608) 257-CAPS.

Capitols' 2015-16 season tickets are also available now by visiting www.MadCapsHockey.com . Fans who pay in full for season tickets by June 1 will receive a specialty season ticket holder jersey. Packages can also be purchased by calling (608) 257-CAPS (2277).

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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