Eagles Hockey Coach Speaks Out After Historical Season

Hopes were high and hearts were on fire for a national title last week as the East Lake Eagles traveled to Coral Springs, FL for a shot at the USA Hockey National Championship trophy.

The Eagles were knocked out by the Jesuit Rangers of Texas after their second loss in the third game of the tournament.

According to Coach Jim Anna, the real sting came when Santa Margarita from California won the championship match.

East Lake fell short to the west coast team in overtime in their second game of the tournament.

"That's how close a team from Florida was to winning a national championship in hockey," Anna said.

The Eagles certainly left an impression with three players making the "Top 10 Scorers" cut. Austin Teall snagged the number one slot while Jake Stewart took the number four position and Richard Foy weighed in at the tenth spot.

Although the team from East Lake is still licking the wounds from the loss, the youngsters have a lot to be proud of including a first place Lightning Cup trophy and a State Championship title.

In addition to their season (21-3-1) and post-season victories, the Eagles were also the first team in Tampa Bay's history to qualify for a national championship. 

"That's a very successful season," Anna added. 

He also said that the team's depth combined with the ability  of the team leaders to "step up when they needed to" produced a recipe for success.

Anna said he plans to continue coaching the team as long as they'll have him. He has been the Eagles coach for more than a decade.

"I'll probably coach until I'm dead," Anna said with a laugh. 

When Patch asked Anna about his plans for next season, he said that he is not looking too far ahead.

Anna said between the end of this season and tryouts for next season, a number of factors play out which creates a completely unpredictable outlook, but as always he is excited for another round.

Congratulations to the students, parents and coaches on a remarkable season!

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