Rookies Bring Pep To Vipers:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Rookies bring pep to Vipers

By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning StarPublished: October 09, 2008 6:00 PM Updated: October 09, 2008 6:19 PM

There was probably nobody happier with the Vernon Vipers’ four-goal first period in last Sunday’s 6-2 win over the Penticton Vees than fourth-liners Trent Dorais and Sahir Gill.To them, it meant extra ice time, and they made the most of it.Playing on a line with Vipers’ veteran Robbie Short, the two youngsters showcased their speed, which culminated in a beauty tic-tac-toe goal.“The defence couldn’t seem to handle our speed, and we tried to make the most of it,” said Gill, 16, who played last season with the Okanagan Hockey Academy in Penticton.“You feel more comfortable out there trying to do something offensively when you know you’ve got a bit of a cushion.”Not only do Gill and Dorais, 17, play on the same line, they’re billeting together, too.“It makes it a lot easier being linemates to go along with being roommates,” said Gill, adding they haven’t had any major fights yet.“Living with someone who’s been there before and knows how to break you into things and what you should and shouldn’t do, espcially around the locker room, so you don’t get into trouble.”Vipers’ head coach Mark Ferner was very complimentary of the two speedsters.“We feel like Sahir (one goal, one assist in seven games) is going to be a very good player in this league,” said Ferner, adding they were great at creating momentum on the Vipers’ recent road trip. “He doesn’t play like your typical 16-year-old.“Trent’s (2A in seven games) more of an energy guy, a straight-line guy who skates very well.“When you’re younger at this level, you need more direction as to what their expectations are and what their roles are.“Everything has to be earned as far as ice time is concerned. I have no problems putting them out in situations depending on where we’re at in the game, but I have the utmost confidence in all our players that they’re going to go out and do the right thing.”Dorais, who recorded 3+5 in 29 games last season, is enjoying his increased role.“I was a little more nervous last year than I was this year,” said Dorais. “Confidence was a major factor coming into this year. I feel more like a part of the team.“We like to bring lots of energy, throw hits, finish checks, and whenever we get the opportunity, to pitch in offensively.”