New Season; New Attitude

As the WSHL enters their fourth weekend of league action, everyone notices the amazing parity of the 2010-11 Mid-West Division.  The Perrenial Power El Paso Rhinos lost their first regular season series ever and suffered a defeat by the expansion Texas Brahmas. They sit in third place.  The Tulsa Rampage split possession of first place with the Texas Brahmas, although the Rampage are three games behind. Defending champion Boulder Bison find themselves tied with the New Mexico Renegades.

While there is a lot of hockey left, it does not take a rocket scientist to notice that:

• The Renegades beat Tulsa in the Saturday game. Returning goaltender Colton Ishmael stonewalled the opposition with 51 SAVES! 
• The Bison took a series from the Rhinos, while the Brahmas earned a Friday night win.
• Tulsa and Texas battled for the series on Sunday in Tulsa.  The Rampage won, but not without a fight.
• The Renegades dominated Texas in their home opener.

Basically, the 2009-10 season is in the books. The current Renegades squad looks to make a statement in WSHL play this season.  Although young, consisting of 92s and 93s (Only a single '90), the Renegades play with the passion, pride and desire necessary to carry a team into the playoffs.  After losing a playoff spot to the now defunct San Antonio Diablos, Coach Ambroziak leads his junior program into their second season of play with team and player goals in mind.  He looks to contend for the championship while promoting players to the NAHL, Tier II, NCAA and ACHA levels.  With the New Mexico Mustangs literally around the corner, the Renegades players battle everyday, whether it is practice or game time, in an effort to extend their hockey careers.

Veterans, like Captain DJ Pyle ('90) and Jonny Voyles ('92), know that they have an opportunity to chase their NCAA and professional dreams through the Renegades.  The key to success for these veterans is the realization that they have the tools to succeed.  So far, their great leadership and positive communication to rookies is apparent, as players like Garrett Phillips and Spencer Archer put up points and adjust quickly to the style of play at the junior level.

Do not overlook the blue line though.  Assistant Captain Matt Pipkins ('92) leads by example this season.  Fans enjoy watching the Renegades' Blue Line Crew develop into a force and it will not be long before scouts note these players development.

Excitement runs through Rio Rancho this season, as the Renegades not only prepare for a chippy rematch against the Texas Brahmas, but lay the foundation for a special season.