Everblades reach some team goals
When Florida Everblades coach Malcolm Cameron was hired in May of last year, he presented a four-step process to help the team accomplish their goal of reaching ECHL’s Kelly Cup.
Step one was for the Blades to secure a playoff berth. Step two was securing home ice for at least one round of the playoffs. Step three, if possible, was to win the Brabham Cup, which is awarded to the team with the best record, and the fourth step, of course, is to win the Kelly Cup.
After Saturday night’s 6-3 victory over the Charlotte Checkers at Germain Arena, Cameron and the Everblades (45-17-5) reached step three of that process, clinching the Brabham Cup.
“It’s one of the goals that we set out to accomplish,” said team captain Kevin Baker, “but its just one step towards the ultimate goal.”
Five-year veteran Earnie Hartlieb said, “It’s a great accomplishment. It’s a great accomplishment for everyone in the organization.”
As important as it was to win the Brabham Cup, even more important was the message they sent to the Checkers, the likely opponent if the Blades advance to the second round of the playoffs.
The Blades have won three straight against the Checkers, but the teams have played several competitive games.
Saturday’s win proved to be more convincing.
“I think it’s important that any time you play a team for the last time in the regular season, to leave a lasting impression on them. That’s what you want to do,” said Cameron. “We’ve accomplished our regular-season goals and for the remaining four games (of the regular season) are for playing good, solid, smart hockey and making sure we are playing together as a team and are getting ready for the (playoffs).”
Perhaps the hardest task remaining for the Everblades is to just get through their last four games of the regular season. All four of those games take place at Germain Arena. All fours games are against the Mississippi Seawolves or the Gwinnett Gladiators – two teams fighting for the final playoff spot in the South Division and a chance to play the Blades in the first round.
“Mississippi and Gwinnett are going to come here with a purpose and it’s going to be the purpose of us to leave them with a lasting impression if they are going to face us as our first round opponent,” explained Baker.