Photo Credit: Charlotte Rush

When you are growing a team and culture, you have to look beyond the box score. Head Coach Jacob Smulevitch of the Columbia Infantry talked about his team and the culture after the Florida Showcase. He also talked about a new player coming to the team and what he brings from the Vernal Oilers

“Our premier team it seemed like finally got to capitalize on all the hard work they’ve put in. It was special to see them get the results they did. Ourelite team despite continuously having tough games continued to support each other and support our premier team and I think that truly speaks to the family they are.”

The culture off ice was clear for the Infantry “our favorite moment of the showcase off ice was definitely the teams hanging out at the hotel play soccer, relaxing, walking around the area. Just nice to see both teams blending with each other.”

“ On ice it was definitely the shootout win vs Hampton Roads We have 4 players who played for Hampton last season that did not enjoy their experience there and that win for them was very special.”

For the second half, the team acquired Andrew Villereal, and offensive defender from the Vernal Oilers in a three way deal with the Charlotte Rush involved as well.

On the trade Smulevitch said “Yes absolutely. Andrew is a very smart offensive defenseman. He will bring some firepower to our blue line. We gave up Elijah white in a 3 way trade with Charlotte but we believe this trade helps us more for the current season and we are excited to have Andrew join us; we are wishing Elijah the best of luck with Charlotte as well.”

For the Infantry, in the second half, they are a team on the rise. Their Premier group is playing defense as of late to match their goal scoring prowess. Ben Norton will be back in net from international play, Cade Corbin has earned some big moments, and the defense as a whole is playing better.

If the Infantry can continue what they were doing before the holiday break on defense, they have the goal scoring up front lead by Thomas Filoramo to shake up their division and push for a playoff spot, and a lot more.

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