ANN ARBOR– Ashley’s Hopslam finds itself a team in crisis after a replay 3-7 loss, this time to the Ice Dogs Saturday night. Goaltender Paul Sholtis called the loss “extremely frustrating” despite the fact that he didn’t even play in the game.
“I know it’s just Beer League, but I want to win!” said a fiery Sholtis.
The sentiment was echoed by others. “This is extremely frustrating,” said defenseman Mark Woods. “I know it’s just Beer League, but I want to win!”
Other signs of the team in crisis included two team members announcing their retirement. David Branch and Ryan Godwin have both left the team following the game. In fact, Branch left midway through the third period in obvious psychological pain. “I’m pretty sure this is my last game,” said Branch, who vowed to move to Utah to reflect upon his hockey career, particularly with Hopslam.
Godwin settled for his $150 opt-out clause, and will join a rival league in Tecumseh.
Despite the frustrations, there were some positive notes. Newcomer Don Restauri (goal, assist) said he “enjoys” playing for Ashley’s. “This team actually plays together,” said Restauri, suggesting that other teams in the league do not. Chris Sutton (2 goals), returning to his forward position, also seemed relatively pleased despite the loss.
None seemed more unhappy, however, than the so-called “Beer Drinking and Scoring” Line of Scott Coates, Bob Brock, and Gary Witt, who were shut out in tonight’s match-up, prompting back-biting among the teammates. “I heard Scott tried to pay for sex and the hooker still said ‘no,'” fired an angry Brock.
GM Mark Woods seemed surprisingly unconcerned. “Boys will be boys,” said Woods. “Plus, a few more beers, and they’ll sleep like babies.”
Added Woods: “As for the games, well, I will continue yelling at guys who aren’t skating, and maybe– just maybe– they’ll forget to ignore me.”