With the sale of the Gloucester Rangers being finalized on September 26th, one knew there would be changes all around.  One such change was the introduction of Dan Sauvé as General Manager and Head Coach.  This move has already had a positive effect on the team, both on and off the ice. 

 

On the ice, the team won their first 2 games under Dan’s guidance and leadership, the second being a hard fought battle against the league leading Carleton Place Canadians, but fell in a tough battle against his former team, the Ottawa Senators.  In watching the games, you can see the jump in the players step, the desire to battle and win and most importantly, the new attitude that will not allow them to get down on themselves and give up.  

 

Off the ice, the team is once again beginning to feel positive about their future.   Having a coach who not only has CCHL coaching experience, but also has playing experience is something that the team will be able to use as it turns the ship around in a new direction.  The players speak of the ‘positive attitude’ that Dan brings to the rink, saying it’s fun to come to the rink once again.  At the same time they know that they are accountable for their actions and that while mistakes will be tolerated and used as teaching points, things such as lack of effort or not putting the team first will not be.  This accountability can only lead to positive outcomes on the ice.

 

Moving forward the team has a lot to look forward to this season and a lot to battle for.  The changes that have been made have had a positive effect on the organization as a whole.  As the new ownership group has said, they want to make the Rangers an organization that players want to play for and that people want to come out and support.  If the first 2 weeks of new ownership is any indication, they are well on their way to achieving that goal.

 

Allan