East Van Blades Win 2006/2007 Hockey Pool
The Tokers and The Bong Water kept it tight but in the end The East Van Blades powered ahead of the pack and won the first annual Vancouver Players regular season NHL Hockey Pool by an impressive 64 points. GM of The Blades, Justin Leigh was very emotional in his post-season press conference..."To be champion in a field of such great General Managers is a real honor for me and my family. I am truly greatful to the players who did such a great job for The Blades this year."
Flanked by his wife and son, the GM discussed what he felt was the motivating factor for The Blades this year.
"Pride. The players were very proud to be playing for The Blades. I remember one moment this season when we were sitting in third place. I walked into the dressing room and put our logo on the wall. Marian (Hossa) stood up, walked over to Vinny and said 'get your shit together'. Something must have sparked there because from that moment Vincent tore the league up. Pavel picked it up in the end too. Yeah, I would have to say pride was the biggest factor in our boys success this season."
When asked to comment on sugestions that his team got lucky Mr. Leigh stated bluntly:
"The Champion makes his own luck. Tremendous credit has to be given to our organization's scouting staff. We made good picks in the preseason and strong trades mid-season."
Looking to the future the GM balked at questions about next season.
"In this era of free agency it will be difficult to keep this group together. I look forward to an off season full of research and preparation as well as another successful season for the Blades."