Photo: Alex Kolstee
ERIE, PA - Hollywood couldn't have scripted a better opening act for the Jamestown Community College (JCC) hockey team as they won their season-opener of their inaugural campaign 3-2 over Mercyhurst University in dramatic fashion, with Cooper Bergman scoring the game-winning goal with just 13 ticks left on the clock.
"What a way to win our inaugural game. It was a scrappy win, but I was proud of the way the boys stuck together and got it done. It was a full team effort. Everyone contributed in some way, whether it was a blocked shot, a big hit, or a good backcheck," said head coach Tommy Gerace.
JCC Athletic Director George Sisson made the trip to Erie with the team. "I couldn't be more proud of these boys, head coach Tommy Gerace, and all Jayhawks fans," he said. "They've been working insanely hard at practice to get to this moment, and to get rewarded with a victory in the first game out of the gate is awesome," Sisson added.
Aside from the winning goal by Bergman, Nate Stephens added a pair for the Jayhawks. Bergman, Jackob Guimond, and Spencer Bell all had assists on the night.
"We've got a lot to improve on, but I see the potential in this group. We got better in every period tonight. Once this team learns how to play three complete periods, it's going to be fun to watch," added Gerace.
"We know there will still be bumps in the road in your first season, but to see the joy on my guys' faces earning their first win, and in dramatic fashion. That is something I will never forget," mentioned an emotional Sisson. "This is a moment these Jayhawks will remember forever," he added.
In net, Jamestown was led by Collin Norlander, who stood on his head, making 38 saves on 40 shots by the Lakers.
"Collin (Norlander) was phenomenal in net. He kept us alive in the first when we were still getting our feet under us. We don't win without his performance," added Gerace on his goalie.
The celebration will be short-lived as JCC is right back on the road on Friday, September 27th, when they visit Niagara University at 8:00 PM.
JCC has its first home game on Saturday, September 28th, when they welcome SUNY Niagara to the nest of Northwest Arena at 7:00 PM.
