Good afternoon SSBHL Bothers and Sisters!

Well, we made it to the end of the season! And what an electric season it was. Was an extremely tight race to the finish but we have our playoff teams and matchups now established. Congrats to the Presidents trophy winners this year, The Hooligans who locked down 1^st place this year! Well earned this season! Great job to our 2^nd seed Smokey Joes who secured 2^nd place, Good  work by the Beavers who reclaimed 3^rd place with the win over the Pitbulls last week, and Solid work by the Stone Hands who Stayed in the playoff contention and kept 4^th place.

Playoff schedule is 1^st seed Hooligans Vs 4^th seed Stone Hands at 9:30am

                               2^nd seed Smokey Joes Vs 3^rd Seed Beavers at 11:00am

Lets all keep in mind, that even though it’s the playoffs and we all want to win and get into the finals, keep it clean please, don’t be an ass and cause any issues and embarrass yourself or your team. This is for fun, and just want to remind you. So, play a hard game, give it a good effort, and play clean. No Bullshit please. The refs will absolutely not be taking any lip from any players or captains during the game so no back talking them at all! This is your warning so don’t expect mercy from them now during the game if you act like a jackass. Well now, Lets get into the final weeks numbers!

Big time Scoring Forwards

Sean Gilpatrick Bursts Onto the Scene with 6-Point Night for the Beavers

The Beavers may have brought in Sean Gilpatrick as a fill-in player on Sunday, but by the end of their 9-3 blowout win over the Pitbulls, it was clear he was the offensive engine behind the victory. Gilpatrick delivered an electric performance, racking up 3 goals and 3 assists for a total of 6 points, directly contributing to over half of the team’s scoring.

From the opening shift, Gilpatrick's offensive instincts were on full display. Whether he was finishing off crisp passing plays or setting up teammates with smooth feeds, Sean looked like a seasoned playmaker in the Beavers' lineup. His chemistry with the team was instant, and the Pitbulls simply had no answer for his creativity and speed in the offensive zone.

Not only did Sean make an immediate impact, but he also helped elevate the play of those around him, constantly creating space and opportunities that led to quality scoring chances. With his six-point effort, Gilpatrick left no doubt that he can be a game-changer—even as a substitute.

For a team looking to build momentum, Sean's standout showing was a huge boost. Although this was a one-time appearance, he made it count in a big way. If the League can get him back again, opponents better be ready.

Ryan Doherty Sparks Smokey Joes with 4-Point Night in Big Win

The Smokey Joes lit up the scoreboard in a commanding 6-1 win, and leading the offensive charge was none other than Ryan Doherty. Doherty put together a standout performance with a hat trick and one assist, playing a key role in over two-thirds of his team’s offense on the night.

From the opening whistle, Ryan was everywhere—buzzing around the rink, creating chances, and finishing with precision. His first goal came off a clean rush, burying a wrist shot low blocker. He followed that up by crashing the net for a gritty rebound goal and later capped his hat trick with a top-shelf rocket from the slot.

But Doherty wasn’t just scoring—he also set up a beautiful play in the second period, drawing in defenders before dishing off a slick assist that led to another Smokey Joes tally.

His relentless energy, smart positioning, and finishing touch made Ryan Doherty a nightmare for the opposing defense and a clear difference-maker in the game. With performances like this, the Smokey Joes look ready to make serious noise down the stretch.

Captain Swan Leads by Example in Smokey Joes Victory

Matt Swan, the dependable captain of the Smokey Joes, turned in a standout performance in his team's recent win, tallying 4 points with 3 assists and 1 goal. Swan’s vision and unselfish play helped set up three different scorers, anchoring the offense and keeping the pressure on the opposition all game long.

His lone goal came in the second period on a partial breakaway, where he outpaced the defender and snapped a quick shot low blocker side—classic Swan, calm under pressure and clinical in execution.

While his offensive numbers were impressive, it was Swan’s two-way game that truly stood out. He was just as committed in his own end, breaking up plays, supporting his defense, and showing why he wears the ‘C’ on his jersey.

With the playoffs looming and a big matchup ahead against the Beavers, the Smokey Joes will be looking to their captain to keep the momentum going. If this game is any indication, Matt Swan is more than ready to lead the charge.

Dazzling defensive play

Captain Gianni Sciola Leads by Example in Two-Way Masterclass

In a commanding performance for the Beavers, Captain Gianni Sciola showcased why he’s one of the league’s most respected two-way players. Known for his defensive tenacity, Sciola took it up another level by contributing heavily on the offensive side of the ball as well—netting 2 goals and adding 2 assists for a total of 4 points.

Gianni was all over the rink, breaking up plays in the defensive zone, transitioning the ball quickly, and jumping into the rush when the opportunity struck. His first goal came off a heads-up pinch from the point, walking in and wiring one low blocker side. His second was a crafty one-timer off a cross-ball pass during a sustained offensive pressure.

But it wasn’t just the points that stood out. Sciola’s leadership was on full display, keeping his team composed and structured throughout the game. His physical presence, intelligent positioning, and ability to read the game set the tone for the Beavers.

As the playoffs loom, the Beavers will be counting on their captain’s all-around play to carry them deeper into the postseason. With Gianni Sciola at the helm, both the defensive wall and offensive engine are in strong hands.

Matt Hocking’s Veteran Presence Shines in Spiders’ Season Finale

In what proved to be the final game of the season for the Spiders, veteran defenseman Matt Hocking left it all on the rink—just like he has all year. The gritty blueliner capped off a strong bounce-back season with a standout performance, tallying a slick wrister from the hash marks and adding an assist to finish the game with 2 points.

More than the numbers, it was Hocking’s relentless hustle, defensive IQ, and vocal leadership that defined his impact. Coming off a tough ankle injury, many wondered how the seasoned vet would respond—but Hocking answered with one of his best campaigns yet. His skating looked rejuvenated, his positioning was rock-solid, and his poise under pressure kept the Spiders in tight games all season.

While the team ultimately fell short of the playoffs, Hocking’s contributions kept them in the hunt to the very end. A cornerstone in the Spiders’ locker room, he not only brought veteran experience, but inspired his teammates with a relentless work ethic that never wavered.

If this was a glimpse of what’s to come, expect Matt Hocking to be a key piece whichever team  hes drafted next season.

Max "Clamp" Schraut Locks It Down for the Smokey Joes

In a season full of grit, hustle, and standout performances, one name on the Smokey Joes continues to anchor their blue line with authority—Max Schraut. The towering, larger-than-life defenseman put on yet another commanding performance in the team’s latest outing, notching two key assists while once again being the defensive rock that his team relies on.

Known throughout the league as “Clamp,” Max lived up to the nickname, suffocating opposing rushes and closing gaps with ferocious intensity. His relentless ball pursuit and unmatched willingness to throw his body in front of shots make him one of the most feared and respected shutdown defensemen on the floor.

Whether it’s sealing off the wall, muscling forwards in front of the net, or jumping in to lead a breakout, Max’s presence is always felt. His on-ice awareness and dependability have made him a cornerstone in Captain Swan’s defensive system, and it's no surprise he’s become a go-to guy in high-pressure situations.

All season long, Max Schraut has been the heart of the Smokey Joes' defense. He doesn’t just play defense—he dominates it. And with playoff hockey looming, don’t be surprised if Clamp takes his game to an even higher level.

Tantalizing Tending

Nick Bonofiglio Closes Regular Season with Dominant Performance in Net

In the Smokey Joes’ final regular season game, goaltender Nick Bonofiglio proved once again why he’s one of the most reliable netminders in the league. Facing the Stone Hands, Bonofiglio turned aside 22 of 23 shots, finishing the game with a stellar .957 save percentage and a 1.00 goals-against average — a rock-solid showing that helped seal the win and boost team momentum heading into the playoffs.

All season long, Bonofiglio has been the anchor in the crease for the Smokey Joes. Known for his calm under pressure, quick reflexes, and strong positioning, Nick has been a model of consistency, showing up every week and giving his team a chance to win. In fact, he’s one of only three goaltenders in the league to suit up for all 10 regular season games — a testament to his durability and dedication.

With the postseason now on deck, Bonofiglio will look to carry that same elite form into Sunday’s playoff matchup against the Beavers. If the Smokey Joes are to make a deep run, there's no doubt they'll be relying on their dependable last line of defense to lead the charge.

Dan Harding’s Redemption Arc: Beavers’ Goalie Shows Grit in Regular Season Finale

It’s been an up-and-down season for Dan Harding, the goaltender for the Beavers. Inconsistency may have defined much of his regular season, but in the final game, Harding delivered the kind of performance his team had been waiting for.

Facing a relentless barrage of 40 shots, Harding stood his ground and stopped 37 of them, ending the game with an impressive .925 save percentage and a 3.00 goals against average. It was a strong, composed showing that reminded fans and teammates alike of the goalie’s potential when he’s dialed in.

Despite the rocky road leading up to this point, Harding may be heating up at just the right time — and with the playoffs looming, the Beavers will need him more than ever as they prepare for a high-stakes clash against the Smokey Joes.

However, a newly sustained ankle injury casts some doubt over his availability for Sunday’s playoff matchup. While the extent of the injury is still unknown, it's enough to raise concerns heading into the postseason. Will Harding be ready in time? Time will tell.

One thing is certain: if Harding can take the crease on Sunday, he’ll be looking to turn the page on a turbulent season and lead the Beavers on a redemption run.

Andy Godfrey Steps In and Steps Up for the Hooligans in 6-3 Victory

Andy Godfrey may not be a regular on the roster, but you wouldn't know it from the way he played in the Hooligans’ 6-3 win this week.

Filling in between the pipes once again, Godfrey delivered a steady and composed performance, stopping 22 of 25 shots and posting a .880 save percentage. His play was a key factor in the team’s win, proving that even as a substitute, he can make a major impact.

From the opening faceoff to the final whistle, Andy brought energy, control, and confidence to the crease. The Hooligans fed off his solid goaltending, using his timely saves as fuel to build their offensive momentum.

While Godfrey isn’t yet a rostered player, his few appearances this season have been impressive. With performances like this one, he’s making a strong case to be more than just a fill-in. He’s proving he has what it takes to compete with the best—and win.

Andy Godfrey may have come in as a backup, but he's leaving as a name worth remembering.

Final Standings of Spring 2025 SSBHL

1^st) Hooligans: 7-3-0 / 14 Points / 62 GF / 46 GA / +16 GD (head-to-head over Joes 2-0)

2^nd) Smokey Joes: 7-3-0 / 14 Points / 64 GF / 48 GA / +16 GD

3^rd) Beavers: 6-3-1 / 13 Points / 66 GF / 60 GA / +6 GD

4^th) Stone Hands: 6-4-0 / 12 Points / 66 GF / 59 GA / +7 GD

5^th) Spiders: 4-5-1 / 9 Points / 47 GF / 50 GA / -3 GD

6^th) Pitbulls: 0-9-1 / 1 Point / 32 GF / 74 GA / -42 GD

Playoff schedule

6/8/25: (4^th) Stone Hands At (1^st) Hooligans 9:30am (Key Matchup: Aiden Lovett Vs J-Mac)

6/8/25: (3^rd) Beavers At (2^nd) Smokey Joes 11:00am (Key Matchup: Gianni Vs Matt Swan)

Everyone, Thank you again for a wonderful Regular Season and Please even if your team isn’t in the playoffs, I encourage you all to come out to show support for the other teams and cheer them on and participate in some food and awards given out!

Thank you!

-Dan H