The 2003/04 Howe Sound Men's Hockey League season has seen numerous fast, tight-checking games so far this season and play is only getting better.
A couple of teams have acquired talented players from Whistler, and as a result they have elevated the level of competition in the league.
"Some teams have had to deal with the challenge of incorporating new players into their line-up but they're coming together nicely," said Heli-Riggen Flyers goalie and league representative Steve Hadden.
The teams have each played eighteen games this season, and with each game the competition is getting tighter.
"We've had some really close, fast games. All of the teams in the league are really tightening up now. Any team on any given night can win now."
Ryan Chap-man, the second overall pick in last fall's entry draft, has been the star forward in the league, leading the point standings with 28 goals and 18 assists.
"He's really been lighting things up," said Hadden.
On defence, the Code Blue Chiefs' Ora Ramage has been the most solid blueliner in the league. He was the first overall pick in the draft, and has definitely not been a disappointment. Ramage is tied for the lead with Ryan Massey, as the team's top scorer. "He's very solid on the blueline," said Hadden. "He's a great player and had been chipping in offensively too."
Between the pipes, star netminder Rob McNutt has been the Chiefs' most valuable player night in and night out, and possibly a league MVP. Although the Chiefs are at the bottom of the pack with only three wins this season, McNutt keeps them in every single game.
"With him in net, he makes every game close," Hadden said. "He makes a big difference on that team."
The Flyers lead the league (as of Jan. 19) with 16 wins and 32 points, followed by the BTR/OP Predators with 18 points, the third place Lil' Enzos Red Wings with 14 points and the Chiefs struggling in last place with just 6 points.
All four teams make the playoffs however, which start in the middle of March. The teams play a total of 30 regular season games.
"The playoffs are always great," said Hadden. "Everybody steps up their game a notch and it gets pretty exciting."
The last game of the season is Friday, Mar. 12, with the playoffs starting the week after. The defending champion Red Wings will look to defend their title.
"Everything has been going great," said Hadden. "It's good, fun hockey and a good time for all the guys."
