The U17 AAA South Fort Chev Rangers begin their playoff run tonight.
Game one of their first-round series against the South Side United Cycle Bulldogs will get underway at 7:45 p.m. at the JRC.
Mason Hawkes, the head coach of the Rangers, says that the team is heading into the postseason with high expectations of themselves.
"The boys are pumped, they have done a lot of preparation," said Hawkes. "I think they are in a good spot, and we are confident."
The team finished the regular season at the top of the league, with a sparkling 28-3-2-1 record and 59 points.
They went a perfect 3-0 against the Bulldogs during the season, winning by scores of 8-2, 5-2, and 10-2.
Being the top team in the league is a very nice accomplishment, but Hawkes understands that there is no such thing as a guarantee in the playoffs.
"As soon as the playoffs start, everyone is back at zero," said Hawkes. "As much as we had a great regular season, this is a reset."
"I think [the team] has the right mindset going in. We're confident, not arrogant."
A best-of-three series leaves little room for error, but the team is confident they match up well against the Bulldogs.
"[The Bulldogs] have some good pieces on their team," said Hawkes. "Every time we've played them, we have played quite well."
"Our speed is our greatest weapon, if we play fast north-south hockey we will be fine."
You can see their full playoff schedule by clicking here.
