INDEPENDENCE, Missouri — The Missouri Mavericks will launch their inaugural season in Rapid City, South Dakota on October 16th with a two-game series against the Rush.
Breaking ground…
The Mavericks home opener against the Wichita Thunder will take place at the newly constructed Independence Events Center, a 75,000 square foot arena bowl with 5,800 fixed seats, 25 luxury suites, a bar/grill and a community ice rink, all under one roof.
Behind the bench…
The Mavericks tabbed Scott Hillman to be the first coach in team history. Hillman has enjoyed great success behind the bench after a colorful playing career. Hillman led the Knoxville Bears (SPHL) to consecutive regular season and playoff titles in his two years there. He had a winning percentage of .660 and was named SPHL coach of the year in 2008-09.
Lead by example…
The Mavericks will be lead by four wiry veterans, who have 49 combined years of professional experience under their belts. Tyler Fleck, Chad Hinz, Carlyle Lewis, and Jeff Christian will all look to use their experience to put this team on the map. Christian, the 2007 CHL Most Valuable Player, will also serve as an assistant coach.
Offensive fury…
The Mavericks have made a pledge to play exciting hockey. With the players that they’ve brought in, they appear to be keeping their promise. The Mavericks have added five players (Christian, Travis Kauffeldt, Bill Vandermeer, Ted Vandermeer, and Simon Watson) who scored 20 or more goals last season. If there is one thing this team plans on doing, it’s scoring a lot of goals.
Between the pipes…
The Mavericks have added two goalies who they believe will provide strength to their defensive core. Dave Groenestege led the CHL with a 2.10 goals against average, and Mike Gorman has amassed 179 wins over a nine year career. While they have yet to decide on a starter, Groenestege seems to be the early favorite due to his more recent success.
Beware of a breakout…
Recently acquired forward, Jason Murfitt has the potential to have a breakout season for the Mavericks this season. As a rookie with the Oklahoma City Blazers, Murfitt tallied 13 goals and 22 assists. Look for him to thrive in the potentially high-powered system of the Mavericks.
Crystal ball…
Look for the Mavericks to stumble a little out of the gates. A nine-game road trip is hard for any team, especially an expansion franchise. However, there is too much veteran leadership and offensive firepower for this team not to succeed.
Projected finish : 35 Wins, 24 Losses, five Overtime Losses, 73 Points and 3rd place in the Northern Conference
Contact the author at joe.rozycki@prohockeynews.com
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