RIVERKINGS SET TO DEFEND TITLE ON ICE
The Memphis RiverKings defeated the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs in game seven last season to capture the Presidentยs Cup Trophy. And, after a summer of enjoying the Presidentยs Cup, itยs back to the ice for the Riverkings, determined to defend their championship.
Recently their majesties invited the press to attend a special media luncheon where coaches, players, and reporters reacquainted themselves. The Maddox Foundation, proud new owners of the RiverKings, shared both optimism and a video presentation on their operation. The Flyer talked with RiverKings head coach Doug Shedden:
Flyer: Is there a bullยs-eye on the RiverKings as the club competes for another Presidentยs Cup?
Shedden: Well, itยs not going to be easy, but there are probably 15 other teams that would like to be in our position — to be able to say they can defend the title. I think itยs going to make us a more hard-working team.
Flyer: Whatยs the mindset of your team, now that the Kings are champions and the team to beat?
Shedden: Itยs certainly going to be a challenge, and we know there will be no nights off. And, if we take any nights off we certainly wonยt be successful on those nights.
Flyer: What are your thoughts on the new ownership?
Shedden: Well, Iยm very excited personally, and I think that the players will find that things will be run a lot differently. Itยs going to be a lot more organized. Itยs going to be run first class, and I think the players will benefit from the Maddox Foundation owning this team.
Flyer: Talk about the preseason games — at Indianapolis on Friday night and at home on Saturday against the Indianapolis Ice.
Shedden: Weยre going to give all the young kids a chance to play. These are two games just to see what these young kids have and to see if they can help us.