The Guelph Storm’s promising season came to an abrupt end as the Soo Greyhounds secured a decisive 4-0 series sweep at the Sleeman Centre with a 5-1 victory in front of 4,600 fans. Despite a strong start and a late-season resurgence, injuries, suspensions, and tough luck in the playoffs dashed Guelph’s hopes for a deep postseason run.
Coach Chad Wiseman reflected on the challenges the team faced, acknowledging the resilience and effort displayed throughout the season despite the setbacks. “A lot of turbulence… a lot of man games missed to injuries, illness, suspension. But a lot of players got an opportunity to play a lot of different roles, and I’m real proud of the effort and of the group in general,” Wiseman remarked, highlighting the team’s positive attitude and work ethic.
Forward Jake Karabela echoed Wiseman’s sentiments, expressing pride in the team’s perseverance in the face of adversity. “We tried to put a good run together at the end of the season to raise our confidence, but that’s playoffs, right?” Karabela noted the close contests in Games 1 and 3, emphasizing how the series could have easily tilted in Guelph’s favor with a bit of luck.
The pivotal moments of the series included critical line changes that led to Soo goals, shifting the momentum firmly in their favor. Despite Guelph’s early competitiveness, the Greyhounds’ size, skill, and efficiency proved too much to overcome. Wiseman commended the Greyhounds as a formidable opponent, praising their coaching, speed, offensive depth, and defensive prowess.
As the season concludes, Guelph bids farewell to key players transitioning to the professional ranks, including Chandler Romeo, Brayden Hislop, Braeden Bowman, and Michael Buchinger. The team faces decisions regarding overage players and prepares for the upcoming OHL Priority Selection draft.
The journey for Guelph continues, with the draft looming as an opportunity to rejuvenate and strengthen the roster for the challenges ahead. Despite the playoff disappointment, the Storm’s resilience and determination set a foundation for future success, highlighting the spirit of competition and camaraderie that defines the world of hockey.
