Roar of the Rapids
It has been a season of firsts for the small market French River Rapids. First, they qualified for the playoffs for the first time since entering the Northern Ontario Jr. Hockey League as an expansion team in 2015.
Then, they won their first playoff game in their first attempt, a 4-1 win over the Kirkland Lake Gold Miners to begin the best of three, preliminary round series in the East Division.
And on Monday, the no. 4 seed Rapids eliminated the no. 5 seed Gold Miners with a decisive 5-2 victory to sweep the series.
Long-time French River owner, general manager and coach Paul Frustaglio was overcome following the series-clinching victory.
“I am very emotional right now … it has been a long, long ride,” Frustaglio told Hockey News North.
Three players had two goals apiece in the series to spark French River, namely Devon Butler, Dominik Godin and Chase Lefebvre.
The Rapids will now take on the no. 1 seed Timmins Rock in a best-of-seven East Division semi-final.
Congratulations to Paul, his coaching staff and his players. For such a small town like Noelville to have a junior hockey team is something very special. Paul has shown a great deal of commitment and dedication to not only the team but also to the area. Also a heart felt thank you to all the volunteers
Go Rapids Go 🙂