ANN ARBOR– Following Ruination’s 8-3 win over the Black Bears Saturday night, GM Mark Woods was asked to explain how the team manages to find success amid the chaos. With characteristic humility, Woods was quick to point out that “you are only as good as your last championship,” tipping his hat to the current champs, the Black Bears.
Director of Player Development Darth Vader explains some of his more controversial moves that have led to Ruination’s success over the years
“We’ve had a lot of success, but I think the guys stay hungry knowing that every team is gunning for us,” said Woods. He noted that the losses often serve as motivators for future games and seasons.
Sean McGrath, who expressed disappointment over his performance in the championship series just a couple of weeks ago, poured in 3 goals. Brian Lefevre added two goals, as did newcomer Matt Heim. Andrew Thompson and Dave Winn each added a goal, while John Vella chipped in with three assists.
“It was a total team effort,” said Woods.
“But it definitely helps when you have a Darth Vader working for you,” he added, referencing Director of Player Development, Darth Vader.
Said Vader with his trademark wink: “They never told you about Matt Heim, did they?”
Vader orchestrated several bold moves in what he called his “Clone Wars” strategy– bringing in younger, faster players to complement the team’s battle-tested stars.
Vader did note with regret losing goalie Paul Sholtis to the Black Bears, and urged Sholtis’s agent to reconsider returning to the team. “With our combined powers, we can rule the C-league as father and son,” said Vader, who felt a close, almost paternal connection with Sholtis, having mentored him over the last few years.
“If you only knew the power of Mark’s side,” he explained to the press.
While there are no guarantees, Ruination has managed to get back to even in the standings, and hope to strike back to their winning ways. “As long as (defenseman) Mark (Woods) doesn’t play against the Black Bears, Black Ops… pretty much any team in C-League, we’ll be fine,” said Vader.