Manatees Kick off WHA2 Preseason against Loggerheads
October 31, 2003 - World Hockey Association-2 (WHA2)
Miami Manatees News Release
The Miami Manatees will make their South Florida debut Saturday night as they face off in their first and only pre-season game against the Lakeland Loggerheads.
After an intense week of training camp, Manatees Head Coach Zac Boyer is starting to put the pressure on his players to use this pre-season game as a stepping stone to solidify their spot on the Manatees.
"I want our speed and energy level to be a factor. Everyone needs to play with intensity because there are guys still battling for jobs. If some guys feel they have jobs already, they are fooling themselves. Their intensity will be a big factor, along with just playing to win."
With over 20 players still in camp competing for 16 roster spots, Boyer feels that the Lakeland Loggerhead's roster is made up of several players who possess attributes that make them a good opponent to match up against.
"Lakeland definitely has a lot of skill on their team. They have a great skilled player in Chris Cerrella, who I played with in Orlando last season. Another guy who is highly skilled is Paul Vincent as well. Those are two names that we are going to have to be aware of during this game."
The pre-season match-up will be November 1st at the Kendall Ice Arena. Admission is $5.00 at the door. Face off time for the game is 7:05pm. Kendall Ice Arena is located at 10355 Hammocks Blvd in Miami, Fl. For more information, please call the Manatees at 305-536-7825 or 305-975-8493.
Manatee Players to Watch:
Left wing Eric Perricone: A former Canadian junior hockey player with North American and European experience is expected to add some speed and scoring to the already strong Manatee offensive attack.
Right wing Oak Hewer: A large winger with "Power Forward" written all over him, Hewer adds size and mobility to the forward lines. "Hewer has good hands and speed for a guy his size." Coach Boyer said.
Center Darren Cain: After spending five seasons playing college hockey with the University of Calgary, Darren Cain will be making his professional debut against the Loggerheads. "He is going to have to play his game and use his skills and talent to the best of his ability."
Loggerhead Players to Watch:
Left wing Garrett Dionne: The son of Hall of Famer Marcel Dionne has made his presence known with the Loggerheads, and is vying for one of the roster spots. "Dionne was a surprise for us. I compare him to Martin St. Louis because he is a little guy who is very determined to make this hockey club." Loggerheads President and Coach Rick Ladouceur said.
Defenseman Stephane Desjardins: The 11 year minor league hockey veteran is looking to make an impact on his 15th team. Look for him to make his presence felt with the Loggerheads. "Stephane is such a seasoned veteran. We expect him to log a lot of ice time and be a steady force for us on the blue line."
Goalie Scott Bailey: The one time Boston Bruins goalie gives the Loggerheads a seasoned veteran in the nets. The 10-year veteran is going to be counted on to counter the Manatees offensive attack. "Bailey is such a professional. He has come into camp and had no airs about him, especially when it came to helping out with the young players. We are happy to have him."
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