Rapids on a modest rise
They began the regular season with a 9-1 loss to the perennial powerhouse Timmins Rock. But in the three games since, the surging French River Rapids have gained points in each outing and thus have a 1-1-2 record heading into this week’s Northern Ontario Jr. Hockey League Showcase Tournament.
After being rocked by Timmins, the Rapids earned a point from a wild 7-6 overtime loss to the Espanola Paper Kings, scored a 5-3 upset win over the Powassan Voodoos and got another point via 3-2 OT setback to the reigning NOJHL champion Sudbury Cubs.
Not bad. Not bad at all.
“We are working hard in practice and focusing on our D zone and it’s working,” French River president, capo, general manager and head coach Paul Frustaglio relayed to Hockey News North. “We have a lot of young talent — we are the second youngest team in the league — and we never stop working. Plus, our vets are leading the way. It’s a long season, but we are pleased with the results as of late and we hope to continue to have success in the Showcase.”
A highlight of the Rapids season thus was a 49 save performance by 2007 birth year goalie Nick Tarantella in the 5-3 victory over the Voodoos of Powassan.