STOCKTON, Ca – Since Matt Thomas assumed the reins of the Stockton Thunder in late December, the Thunder has improved their record with seven straight wins in eight games.
Garet Hunt%2C Coach Thomas%2C Ryan Huddy
Leading up to the termination of former Head Coach Chris Cichocki, the Thunder had lost eight of their last ten games, with an overall record of 10-17-2-2. The Thunder has acquired 15 of their last 16 available points going into the All-Star break.
The now defunct Fresno Falcons were first in the ECHL’s Pacific Division when they ceased operations in late December. Then, in an ironic turn of events, Matt Thomas became the head coach of the Stockton Thunder.
Thomas brought along five former Falcons with him: Forward Igor Gongalsky, Judd Blackwater, and defensemen Daryl Marcoux, Matt O’Dette, and Kenny MacAulay, along with his assistant coach Ryan Mougenel.
Ryan Huddy
Thomas also brought a youthful, winning attitude. All-Star forward Ryan Huddy says he’s excited about the future. “Coach Thomas has lots of young energy and it shows through to the guys. Every coach has his own style and Thomas’ energy works well with our guys.” In the press conference announcing Thomas as head coach, he remarked, “This is going to be a tough arena for other teams to play in. We will be a team based around skill. I am creating a team culture that believes we can win.” Now that Thomas has been at the helm for eight games, they have increased their winning streak to seven straight games. Prior to hiringThomas, the Thunders’ season best streak was two. The power-play has improved from 14% to 21%. There are still 33 games remaining in the season and the Thunder is currently in seventh place in the National Conference with a 17-17-3-2 record and trail the first place Ontario Reign by only six points within the division. “Every game we play, we have a chance to win” says Thomas. Judging by the last eight games, he means what he says. Only time will tell. Contact the author at:
shellie.lima@prohockeynews.com Contact the photographer at:
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