Statement Made

I walked out of Conte Forum last night with as bad of a feeling about a BC Hockey team as I've had in a long, long time. Well, tonight, I walked out of Matthews Arena with another one of this feelings about a BC Hockey team. Only this time it was the polar opposite of last nights. Thanks to one of the best efforts I've seen out of a Boston College Hockey team in quite some time, the Eagles embarrassed rival Northeastern @ Matthews Arena by a final score of 9-3. This is the third time since 2010 that the Eagles have scored 9 goals in a game. The other two were @ BU in 2011 and in 2010 vs Yale. Well, I've got a lot to say tonight but I'll start with Coach Cav and Coach Brown. They obviously gave this team a great pep talk because everyone looked ready to play hockey tonight. You would have thought it was a Beanpot or NCAA type game based on the celebration, emotion, and toughness the Eagles played with tonight. Last night, guys looked lifeless from start to finish. On this night, everyone looked like they were on a mission from puck drop to the final  buzzer. That's BC Hockey. Over his three and a half years at Boston College, I've seen Steven Whitney play some pretty spectacular games such as the 5-2 home win over BU a few years back but not one of those performances match what he did tonight. Anytime a guy scores a hatrick and has four points overall, obviously you know he had a pretty solid game but it was the way he scored some of his goals that jumped out the most to me. He didn't just go by the Huskie defenders, he made them look like clowns out there. On one of his goals he literally just took the puck at the BC blue line, went around two Huskie forwards, and just went wide on their defenseman to the net in which he just finished it up in front of NU goaltender, Chris Rawlings. Certainly a special game for #21 in gold tonight.

There was not one guy that played bad tonight. In fact, I'd say close to 70% of the team played their best games tonight. I loved the way Pat Mullane, Johnny G, Kevin Hayes, and Billy Arnold played tonight. I thought BC was physical but at the same time smart for the majority of the game, something they have not had happen in almost a month. I thought BC did struggle defensively in the first period as all three of NU's goals were pretty much tap in's right in front of Parker Milner. However, after the first 20 minutes, BC played as good in their own end as they have all year. In fact, I'd say the last 40 minutes was the best hockey I've seen out of each and every defenseman this season. If I had to single out one guy in particular, it would definitely be Isaac Macleod. Not only did he have a huge goal in the second period but he played some shut-down defense throughout the night. For most of the game, Isaac was put against Northeastern's top line of Roy-Saponari-McMultry. Roy, the freshman sensation that some Husky fans like to compare to Johnny G (ridiculous, I know), was absolutely nowhere to be found. When your team scores nine goals and gives up just six, you're going to have some guys with some high +/-'s. Well, guess who led the Eagles in that category ? Travis Jeke. Like I said out in Minnesota, the kid may be one of the most talented defenseman on this roster but he just has a lot of learning to do. Obviously, he is learning sooner rather than later.

This, if you ask me, was undoubtedly BC's best effort of the season and if they continue to play like this from here on out, well, watch out. The bottom six forwards also were able to get in on the action as Quinn Smith, who I thought played his best game of the year, scored his first of the season in the third period. After struggling in the third period last night and the early parts of tonight's game, Parker Milner started playing some spectacular hockey in the second period. Right after BC went up 5-3, NU was gift wrapped a very long 5 on 3 in which they could have gotten right back in the game with a goal or two. While the Huskies did in fact generate some grade A chances on that particular man advantage, Milner stood on his head and propelled BC to a big kill (at the time). Obviously, it goes without saying that when BC's defense plays like that, Milner's job is much easier.

All in all, this was the perfect statement game for the Eagles. It's not very often that I walk into a rink before a BC game and tell myself that we are giant underdogs. I'm not going to lie to you....I doubted this team after last nights debacle. However, when you beat a rival like that in front  of that crowd with the type of circumstances surrounding the game, you can't help but be happy about the way your team played.

Why BC Won-

1. When BC's top 5 guys (Hayes-Johnny G-Mullane-Whitney-Arnold) are playing like that, there is not one team in this league that can beat them.

2. Best defensive effort of the year, without a doubt. First 20 minutes were bad but the last 40 were as good as it's going to get with this team.

3. They fought from start to finish. There was a mission going into tonight and clearly BC accomplished it. Kudos to the staff for getting everybody ready.

Problems-

Nothing to complain about but the power play didn't score...surprisingly.

Injury Report- Mike Matheson left the game in the first period with an upper body injury. I'll release more information as the week goes on.

Player of the Game- Steven Whitney

GO EAGLES !

 "Statement Made" - The Art of Making an Impact in the World of Sports

In the world of sports, making a statement is not just about winning games; it's about leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of fans, opponents, and the sporting community at large. "Statement Made" signifies moments of exceptional performance, groundbreaking achievements, and displays of unparalleled sportsmanship that transcend the scoreboard. In this article, we'll delve into the art of making a statement in sports, exploring iconic moments, the impact on athletes, and the inspiration it provides to fans. Additionally, we'll address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon.

"Statement Made" - The Essence of Sporting Greatness

"Statement Made" moments are the stuff of legends, etched in the annals of sports history. They encompass various facets of sporting excellence:

Exceptional Performances: It could be an athlete breaking records, achieving personal bests, or delivering clutch performances in critical moments.

Historic Achievements: These moments often involve athletes achieving milestones that redefine the sport, such as winning multiple championships, securing Olympic gold, or setting new standards.

Sportsmanship: Making a statement isn't just about winning; it's also about displaying unwavering sportsmanship, fairness, and grace, even in the face of defeat.

Iconic "Statement Made" Moments

Usain Bolt's World Record Run: In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Usain Bolt sprinted into history by setting a world record of 9.69 seconds in the 100 meters, and then later breaking it with 9.58 seconds. His performances were not just wins; they were seismic shifts in sprinting history.

Michael Phelps' Eight Gold Medals: In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Michael Phelps accomplished the seemingly impossible by winning eight gold medals in a single Olympic Games, cementing his status as one of the greatest swimmers of all time.

Rafael Nadal vs. Roger Federer, Wimbledon 2008: In what is often regarded as one of the greatest tennis matches ever played, Rafael Nadal outlasted Roger Federer in a five-set epic at Wimbledon. It showcased both players' extraordinary skill and determination.

Jesse Owens at the 1936 Berlin Olympics: Against the backdrop of Adolf Hitler's regime, Jesse Owens, an African American athlete, won four gold medals in track and field, making a powerful statement against racism and discrimination.

The Impact of "Statement Made" Moments

"Statement Made" moments have a profound impact on athletes, fans, and the sports world:

Inspiration: These moments inspire athletes to push their limits and strive for greatness. They serve as reminders that records are meant to be broken, and new milestones can always be achieved.

Unity: Iconic sporting achievements bring fans from diverse backgrounds together, fostering a sense of unity and shared celebration.

Legacy: Athletes who make statements often leave behind legacies that influence generations to come. Their impact extends beyond their playing careers.

FAQs About "Statement Made" Moments

Let's address some common questions to provide a deeper understanding of this phenomenon:

Q1: Can "Statement Made" moments be planned or are they spontaneous?

A1: While some moments are spontaneous, others are the result of meticulous training, preparation, and determination. Athletes often work tirelessly to create opportunities for such moments.

Q2: Are "Statement Made" moments always about winning?

A2: No, "Statement Made" moments can also occur in moments of defeat, when athletes display exceptional sportsmanship or resilience in the face of adversity.

Q3: Do these moments have a lasting impact on sports beyond the immediate event?

A3: Yes, iconic "Statement Made" moments often shape the trajectory of a sport, inspire future generations, and redefine what is possible.

Q4: Can "Statement Made" moments occur in team sports, or are they more common in individual sports?

A4: "Statement Made" moments can occur in both individual and team sports. They are not limited to any particular discipline.

Q5: How do athletes cope with the pressure of creating a "Statement Made" moment?

A5: Athletes cope with pressure through mental preparation, visualization, and a relentless work ethic. They focus on the process rather than the outcome.

"Statement Made" moments in sports are more than just athletic achievements; they are timeless narratives of human potential, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. These moments capture the essence of sporting greatness and inspire athletes and fans alike. Whether it's an exceptional performance, a historic achievement, or an act of sportsmanship, "Statement Made" moments transcend the scoreboard and remind us that sports can be a platform for unity, inspiration, and lasting legacies. They are a testament to the indomitable spirit of athletes and the enduring power of sports to captivate the world.