Copyright © 1999 Team ZOG Enterprises
DATE: 9/30/99
ZOGS OPEN SECOND SEASON WITH HIGH EXPECTATIONS
PORTLAND, ME - The Florida Panthers did it in 3 seasons, the Marlins in 5, and the Arizona Diamondbacks may do it in two. What is that you say? All of these teams have advanced to their league's championship series within a few years of their inaugural season. So what does this have to do with the ZOGS? Well, the ZOGS are about to begin their second season playing in the Men's Industrial League at the Portland Ice Arena, and they are setting their sights on nothing less than a championship. It's a very bold statement to make considering most players on the team were still drinking beers in college a few years ago.
The 1999-2000 ZOGS, however, have a seasoned look to them which belies their inexperience. Over 80% of the roster is returning from last year. Scoring punch has been increased by the addition of five outstanding forwards. Mark Hall (#15), Gabe Somma, Greg Perry, Andrew Bradford, and Andrew Hollis will bring depth to the ZOGS offense which only had one line scoring consistently last season. Defenseman Rob Carrier (#9) will be making the switch to forward this season and will anchor a line with James Gilbert (#47) and Nick Gordon (#77), two of the ZOGS most prolific scorers from last year. David Steckino (#12), Mike Camire (#22), Jeff Richards (#20) and Sady Rancourt (#11) are all returnees from last year, and their games were seen to improve to the point that significant contributions will be expected from them this season.
Several free agent signings have bolstered the lackluster defensive core. Jack Michaud (#8), Joe Marshall (#32), and Bill Paradis (#2) will bring experience, consistency, and depth to a defense that often found itself outmanned and overworked last season. Combine them with Rick Magnuson (#5), Peter Kelley (#31), Ian Gould (#33), and Tim Bowring (#44), and the ZOGS have a defense that opponents will find difficult to crack.
The goaltending position should be more solid this season. With Tim Dominick (#34) coming off his first ever season of ice hockey, expect him to build on last season's second half success and continue to improve throughout the season. He should be aided by the strong defensive core. Backing up Dominick again this year will be Rick Magnuson (#5). Mags will be able to jump into the lineup with no drop-off in team performance. In fact, Mags may push Dominick to work harder to solidify his starting slot.
The ZOGS are slated to open their second season Tuesday, October 5th @ 9:00 PM against Fairchild Semiconductor. With eight weeks of exhibition games under their belts, the ZOGS are firing on all cylinders as they prepare for their ascension to the next level. This is one team the rest of the league needs to be watching out for this year.
TRANSACTIONS: Greg Perry (F/D), Andrew Bradford (F/D), Bill Paradis (D), and Gabe Somma (F) were signed for the 99-00 season.
NEWS OF NOTE: It's finally here. In a matter of days, the ZOGS will finally be a part of the "Dot-Com" club. Our new web address will be www.zogs.com. Watch your e-mail for the official announcement. Thanks to Portalsmith for hosting our site . . . The season schedule is now posted on the website. Player profiles and statistics will be some new additions shortly.