Jeff Bradley, head coach of the Western Conference’s #1 seeded St. Marys Lincolns, shared his thoughts on the team’s hard-fought series win over the #8 Kitchener-Waterloo Siskins in five games, secured their spot in the conference semi-finals.
Pressure as the Top Seed
As the top seed, the Lincolns faced the pressure of being the favourites in the series, with 4 out of the 5 games being decided by just one goal. Bradley acknowledged the intensity of the series and how the team dealt with the challenge. “The games [were] extremely competitive, with many tight contests. We knew the Siskins would be a tough challenge, and they really limited us in a lot of ways,” said Bradley. “In Game 4, we lost in double overtime, and it was a reminder that every mistake counts in these games. But we focus on limiting risk, playing smart, and just giving that extra 5 percent.”
Competition in the League
The high level of competition in the league this season was evident in this first-round series. Bradley highlighted the depth of the league and how every team presents a different challenge. “This year, the playoffs are very competitive. There were 9 teams above .500. We’ve been beaten by teams in the 4th to 8th seed at least once, and we knew that each series would have its own unique challenge,” he explained. “Kitchener-Waterloo did a great job limiting our offensive opportunities, and we had to adjust throughout the series.”
Depth and Opportunity for Every Player
With such offensive firepower, the Lincolns need to ensure every player gets a chance to contribute. Bradley emphasized the importance of defensive play and playing within the system. “The depth of our team is what sets us apart,” said Bradley. “Opportunities are earned through strong defensive play and limiting mistakes. Trust is key, and players earn that through their preparation. Every player on the roster has a role, whether it’s offensive or defensive, and they trust that their contribution is valuable.”
Goaltending Split and Its Impact
In this series, Bradley opted to give both of his goalies split starts, a decision that worked well in the playoffs. “We have two quality goalies, Nico Armellin and Colby Booth-Housego and both have played incredibly well this season,” he noted. “We believe in both of them. There’s no reason not to play both. They’ve earned our trust and have each played against some of the top teams in the league. We didn’t want to save the tougher games for just one goalie, and it’s been a great approach for us.”
Fan Support and Its Impact on the Team
Bradley also spoke about the crucial role of the St. Marys fan base, which is known for its passion. “Our fans create are certainly a factor for the atmosphere for the team. When I first came here, I knew it was a fun place to play. The fans bring an energy that pushes us,” he said. “The players feed off the crowd, and it really gives them an amazing experience. The players see the fans, and want to continue playing here for that reason.”
Looking Ahead: Keys to Continued Success
Bradley continued to stress the importance of limiting mistakes and playing on the defensive side of the puck. As the Lincolns continue their playoff journey, Bradley’s focus on depth, trust, and defensive play will be key to their success as they dial in on the second round.
