Today in Wheeling History: March 23--The Wheeling Thunderbirds defeated the Johnstown Chiefs 5-0 to win their first-ever East Coast Hockey League playoff series, with team captain Darren Schwartz scoring a hat trick and goalie Rod Houk recording a shutout (1993).
On March 23, 1993, the Wheeling Thunderbirds achieved several firsts in their team's history during their 5-0 playoff win against the Johnstown Chiefs. Team captain Darren Schwartz scored a hat trick, goalie Rod Houk recorded a shutout, and the Thunderbirds won their first-ever playoff series. The victory advanced them to the second round of the East Coast Hockey League playoffs, where they would face the Raleigh IceCaps in a best-of-seven series.
Coach Doug Sauter implemented a strategic 1-4 defensive setup that caught the Chiefs off guard and led to the Thunderbirds' dominant performance. The team played with discipline, avoiding unnecessary penalties, and Houk's outstanding goaltending, combined with a strong defensive effort, secured the shutout victory.
To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/4b8yhvfh) (https://tinyurl.com/5ae2t8tu)
Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV; Wheeling News-Register
On March 23, 1993, the Wheeling Thunderbirds achieved several firsts in their team's history during their 5-0 playoff win against the Johnstown Chiefs. Team captain Darren Schwartz scored a hat trick, goalie Rod Houk recorded a shutout, and the Thunderbirds won their first-ever playoff series. The victory advanced them to the second round of the East Coast Hockey League playoffs, where they would face the Raleigh IceCaps in a best-of-seven series.
Coach Doug Sauter implemented a strategic 1-4 defensive setup that caught the Chiefs off guard and led to the Thunderbirds' dominant performance. The team played with discipline, avoiding unnecessary penalties, and Houk's outstanding goaltending, combined with a strong defensive effort, secured the shutout victory.
To learn more: (https://tinyurl.com/4b8yhvfh) (https://tinyurl.com/5ae2t8tu)
Photo credits: Ohio County Public Library Archives, Wheeling WV; Wheeling News-Register
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