Vaughan Kings - Peewee AAA’s tough and talented By / Marc Paulichenko Just nine sleeps before Christmas Day, Vaughan Kings Minor Peewee AAA head coach Roberto Orofiamma wasn’t giving away any secrets in terms of what he has planned for his team heading into the New Year. He did, however, answer some questions on why his team sits in third place at press time after 20 games with a 17-2-1 record. The Kings are one point shy of second place, trailing the Toronto Jr. Canadiens (18-4-0). “Our team has really gelled,” Orofiamma explains. “It is amazing to see how much each player pulls for one another. It is truly a team. The team’s mental toughness and ability are rare qualities that the team possesses. “We have extremely skilled players who make the game look easy. Their ability to play both with and without the puck is a true joy to watch.” Like most of the top teams, their strength starts from the back end. The Kings’ goaltenders have proved their worth and demonstrated outstanding goalkeeping this season, said Orofiamma. Their defence has been like a rock. At 11-years-old, the young King defence start their attack and punish those who attempt to enter our zone, while combining skill and toughness. The Kings have allowed just 22 goals against in 20 games, including seven shutouts. The Kings have scored 105 goals. “A team should be built from the net out; however, a team still requires the means to find the back of the net,” said Orofiamma. “Our forwards are quick and tenacious. They weave across the ice with one goal in mind – to score.” Vaughan opened the season with the Toronto Marlboros tournament. It was the first time the team played together and they ended up losing in the final. Next, in the London tournament, they lost in the semis. Finally, their latest tournament in the Hamilton Tournament, they left as champions. “Perhaps the biggest compliment this season has come from spectators, who have commented how much they enjoy watching our team play; how well we pass the puck, skate, and work as a team. Winning the Hamilton Tournament has also been a memorable moment.” By / Marc Paulichenko Just nine sleeps before Christmas Day, Vaughan Kings Minor Peewee AAA head coach Roberto Orofiamma wasn’t giving away any secrets in terms of what he has planned for his team heading into the New Year. He did, however, answer some questions on why his team sits in third place at press time after 20 games with a 17-2-1 record. The Kings are one point shy of second place, trailing the Toronto Jr. Canadiens (18-4-0). “Our team has really gelled,” Orofiamma explains. “It is amazing to see how much each player pulls for one another. It is truly a team. The team’s mental toughness and ability are rare qualities that the team possesses. “We have extremely skilled players who make the game look easy. Their ability to play both with and without the puck is a true joy to watch.” Like most of the top teams, their strength starts from the back end. The Kings’ goaltenders have proved their worth and demonstrated outstanding goalkeeping this season, said Orofiamma. Their defence has been like a rock. At 11-years-old, the young King defence start their attack and punish those who attempt to enter our zone, while combining skill and toughness. The Kings have allowed just 22 goals against in 20 games, including seven shutouts. The Kings have scored 105 goals. “A team should be built from the net out; however, a team still requires the means to find the back of the net,” said Orofiamma. “Our forwards are quick and tenacious. They weave across the ice with one goal in mind – to score.” Vaughan opened the season with the Toronto Marlboros tournament. It was the first time the team played together and they ended up losing in the final. Next, in the London tournament, they lost in the semis. Finally, their latest tournament in the Hamilton Tournament, they left as champions. “Perhaps the biggest compliment this season has come from spectators, who have commented how much they enjoy watching our team play; how well we pass the puck, skate, and work as a team. Winning the Hamilton Tournament has also been a memorable moment.” |