NAHL Amarillo Bulls

Great Success Continues at NAHL Showcase for Amarillo Bulls

Published on September 19, 2012 under North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Amarillo Bulls News Release


AMARILLO, TX - When it comes to the North American Hockey League Showcase, the Amarillo Bulls continue to be one of the strongest teams to play at the event.

The Bulls returned from their third trip to the Showcase last week in Blaine, Minnesota and posted a record of 2-1-1. Amarillo defeated the Austin Bruins 5-2 and the Springfield Jr. Blues 3-2, lost to the Wenatchee Wild 5-3 and Port Huron Fighting Falcons 2-1 in a shootout.

In three total trips to the event, Amarillo has posted a record of 8-2-2, including last year's mark of 3-0-1 and nearly winning the overall title. Bulls Head Coach Dennis Williams said part of the reason for the team's success at the event over the years is their preparation prior to leaving.

"Our guys come to training camp in great shape. They are also very hungry and eager to do well," Williams said. "I think another motivating factor is the 300 plus scouts that are there in attendance to watch the games."

"The guys performed well, and we were able to find out more about ourselves, the identity and character that we want to see."

It can be an unnerving experience for young hockey players to play at the NAHL Showcase. This year there were a record number of scouts from the NCAA Division I and Division III programs, as well as the National Hockey League. Other North American Hockey League teams were also busy watching games.

"When you look up there from a players stand point, you see a lot of black suits," Williams explained. "It can be very nerve-racking because they have their books out. It might be your first impression, and a lot of college scouts leave for home with an impression from what they saw at that game."

It was also a different Bulls line-up with just six returning forwards and three defensemen on the roster. Williams said the players put up a great showing during the four games.

"The work ethic and compete level was there," he said. "Now, it's up to us as coaches to put it all together and make them better hockey players."

Some of the highlights at this NAHL Showcase for the Bulls included a big third period in the win over Austin and a solid defensive effort in the game against Springfield. Bulls goaltenders Paul Berrafato and Collin Delia were excellent in net. Delia won his first NAHL game against the Jr. Blues. Forward TJ Sarcona had five points, including one goal and four assists, while four other players Ryan Cole, Connor Frey, Omar Mullan, Clint Carlisle, and Mike Davis each had two goals.

Hockey returns to the Budweiser Bull Pen in the Amarillo Civic Center next Saturday, Sept. 29 when the Amarillo Bulls host their rival the Odessa Jackalopes at 7 pm in the 2012-2013 home opener. Fans can come out and enjoy a huge tailgate party with free barbecue, refreshments and music, then head inside to watch as more banners are raised. Single game tickets are on sale and available at the Bulls Office located at 301 South Polk, Civic Center Box Office and all Panhandle Ticket Outlets, including United Supermarkets. Full and Half Season Tickets as well as Seven-Game Flex Packs are still available. For further information call the Bulls Office at 806-242-1122.

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North American Hockey League Stories from September 19, 2012


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