18U Head Coach, Kevin Quinn discusses Nationals, Team Leaders and more... 

What can you tell us about your team’s identity, what can we expect to see next week during Nationals?

We have a deep, experience roster of hard working, disciplined players.  We have depth in all areas which we will need against every team we play.

Who are your captains? What makes them great leaders?

Jack Lipovich, Alex Crilley and Stephen Rex.  All are returners from last year’s National Championship team.  All are quality players and quality individuals.  They lead on and off the ice.  As leaders they are required to be at their best every day - every game.  And they have not disappointed. 

After winning the National Championship last year, how do you think that will help this year?

We have Lipovich, Crilley, Rex, Harris, Bigley, Nee and Veltri back from last year’s team.  Bigley missed Nationals due to injury but all, including Daniel bring a lot of experience and know how to win hockey games.  They won't get caught up in the moment - play without fear.

What are you/team looking forward to the most during Nationals?

Playing at home.  Our players and families have made an incredible commitment to playing Tier I hockey - it is nice to be at home so that they can play in front of family and friends.  I am also hopeful that the younger players in the organization take advantage of the opportunity to see our Midgets compete against the best hockey teams in the country - right at home.

What are the 3 main things that you preach to your team on a daily/weekly basis?

Speed, work ethic, discipline. 

I expect our players to play fast.  To be relentless. 

We also have to be the hardest working team.  If you want to be successful, hard work has to be a huge part of the equation. 

As for discipline, we want controlled aggression out there, players who play tough, hard etc.. but disciplined.  Discipline also a huge factor in how we play the system - we can't have individuals playing outside our system.

What did you do to prepare for Nationals?

Rest, train, and prepare. 

The 16s and 18s worked together - scrimmaging and practicing together on multiple occasions.  The Pittsburgh Penguins Elite organization also provided extra workouts with UPMC which was great.  We, the 18s, also needed this time to get healthy.  We will be fully healthy for the first game.  The coaches and I also used the time to watch a lot of video on our opponent to help prepare our team for them. 

Is there anything else we should know about your team heading into next week?

Just that although we are proud to be hosting – we know how good we are and have been for a lot of years - we expect to compete to win.