Looking back on their first season of league competition, he said:
“The
Ducks season - if you look at the league table - seems not to have been a good
one. But you have to remember that this team was put together from a range of
different abilities - with players playing at rec and Under 19 level and a few
older players to help out.
“The
goal was to enhance the development of the younger players into senior. We had
16, 17, 18 year olds who had never played at this level and the key was to have
the selection of older experienced players help nurture this raw talent and
keep them safe on the ice.
“The
Ducks had some poor losses but also had some very close games and as the season
progressed we were becoming more confident and had started to compete with the
other teams that are well established and had players that were very
comfortable playing at this level of hockey.
“When
we started the season, my only goal was to get them playing together as a unit
and be competitive as a team, which we achieved and had as a bonus that the
players actually won games.
“The
strategy was to develop players and get through the season - which we achieved.
We now have 4 or 5 players training with the Dragons each week, as well as the
three already signed for them.”
“So, as
the first season for the team closes, we now have a group of players that we
can progress onto the Dragons in a few years time.”
“From
my point of view the season was a success. Looking at the results, maybe not - and
I hate to lose - but the amount of players that have improved this year is a
big plus. They have earned the wins they achieved, and they have competed all
year.”
“I am
very happy with how the team has done this season, and looking forward to carry
on the progression of these young players and the future Dragons players.”
Shaw
also revealed that plans are already well under way for next season:
“We now
already have more players interested in playing for the Ducks and some stronger
developed experienced players are interested who will enhance the squad and help
develop the young talent further.”
