Pressiteated

After Ivan Malý stepped into the dressing room after the Sussex Sea Dog's blowout win last Wednesday, it marked the end of a phenomenal regular season for both the club and Malý himself. During 15 games in the regular season, the native of the Czech Republic racked up an amazing 33 goals and 76 points.
"It's been a great year...(I) came in partway through, like most of these guys...it's great. Every win means we're closer to getting more skill, some more team-mates...it's fun." Said Malý in his broken English. One of three Czech players on a team full of differing nationalities, he looks to youngster Petr Palla for help.

Malý speaks the truth, however. Each win by the Sea Dogs means more money for GM Lhayser to work with, and every day, that money is put to use for filling holes in the team, be it defense, offense, or even goaltending. Norwegian Bjarne Løvik doesn't seem to be keen on giving up the starting job anytime soon, however.

"I like to play," he says, trying to ignore fellow goalie Eduard Sadoveneau's teasing. "The more I play, the better I play. It's a win-win."

Certainly, the atmosphere of the dressing room was upbeat, as any room would be after finishing a season at the top of the league with a perfect month to end it all. The fact that jobs may be lost doesn't seem to bother them in the least. Indeed, it's accepted by the players. They take it as a challenge to play better. They also understand that this situation is special, and they should surely soak up the moment.

"Yeah, we all know that there'll be some new guys as the playoffs go on," Says captain Pauls Narciss. "It's just how it works. They'll get the same chances as all the guys that have been here all season. If one outplays the other, they'll get the roster spot. I think the guys understand, and will work extra hard in the off season to get in prime shape to win their spot back. Nobody takes it personally."

The Sea Dogs are now in the second round of the playoffs, and it's probable that they'll be challenging for the league championship with the rival Zoilers.

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