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Teen Goalie Thrown Into NAHL Action
25 Jan
Summary
- A 16-year-old emergency backup goalie played in his first NAHL game.
- The goalie entered the game after the starting netminder received a suspension.
- The team faced a challenging situation with multiple penalties and suspensions.
A 16-year-old emergency backup goaltender unexpectedly found himself in net for the Johnstown Tomahawks' recent game against the Rochester Jr. Americans. Ryan Lombardo, who plays for a AAA team, entered the game for the third period after veteran goalie Zack Ferris received a game misconduct and suspension. Ferris was penalized for participating in his second fight of the season following the second-period buzzer.
Coach Adam Houli described Lombardo's situation as being 'thrown into a mine field' but praised his performance, noting he 'battled' and 'settled in.' The Tomahawks faced significant adversity, including killing off a 5-on-3 power play and a five-minute major penalty. The incident that led to the goalie shortage began after a Rochester player took a shot after the second-period buzzer, escalating into a fight between Ferris and the Jr. Americans' goalie.
The team is now assessing the impact of goalie suspensions and exploring options for their next game, which is also against the Rochester Jr. Americans. Lombardo has expressed his readiness to assist again, despite his club team having a game scheduled. The Tomahawks aim to navigate these challenges and prepare strategically for their upcoming matches.
