Coach: It’s a great time of year to be an Evergreen
By Raymond Neupert/South Metro Observer
WESTON, Wis – The D.C. Everest Boys Hockey Team will be heading to the state championships for the first time ever after beating SPASH in double overtime on Saturday.
Coach Dan VanSlyke says it’s a surreal feeling.
“Just proud of the kids and how hard they worked all year,” VanSlyke said. “They’re being rewarded for all their work by making their dreams reality last night.”
He adds that the victory is an even greater one seeing the road they took through sectionals to get this victory.
“We were able to get past Wausau West in a double overtime win, and to do the same again last night against SPASH? We lost to both teams twice in the regular season, and to come all the way back? It’s so special for our kids.”
He says both West and SPASH are great hockey traditions, but that he’s happy to lead his kids to their first trip to Madison.
VanSlyke says people should come on out and make sure the boys know they’re being backed.
“Playoff hockey and state tournament hockey is like nothing else,” VanSlyke said. “Kids lay it out on the line every shift because they know it might be their last.”
The Evergreens are now set to face Waukesha North Co-op on Thursday night at approximately 6:15 in Madison at the Alliant Energy Center.
Tickets and scheduling are online at the WIAA’s website at https://www.wiaawi.org/Sports/
