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***SpartanGibbles*** · 12-18-2018, 04:40 PM

First Article

Grand Entrance - Taking a look at a local player entering the SMJHL

The time is fast approaching for the start of a new SMJHL season and with that many new prospects will enter the fold. One new prospect that we will focus on today is a local player by the name of Collin Gibbles. Standing at an impressive 6 feet tall, Gibbles is known for using brain over size to control the ice. Although using his size is not an issue, Gibbles weighs in at a sturdy 230 lbs making him a hard target to knock of the puck. Other skills scouts have praised Gibbles on include his defensive stick work as well as finding the right pass to open up scoring chances for his line-mates.

Having played for his local rec league team, The GR Giants, he has made a name for himself in the 3 seasons he has spent on the roster leading them to back to back finals appearances with a recent victory as team captain. With a commanding 4-1 Series win over rival team The Escanaba Eskimos, the Giants finally captured their first championship. Leading the way with 31 assists and 7 goals in 15 games during the playoffs, Gibbles set a new club record for points in a single postseason as well as assists in an postseason. In his most dominant display during the opening game of the finals, Gibbles had a 7 point night with 5 assists and 2 goals to ignite a fire under his team. When asked about finally capturing the fabled Mitten Cup he had this to say.

"We always had faith we would win it if we could come together as a team on the ice and off. After last years heart-breaking loss we are glad to bring the Mitten home to GR. I will miss my teammates on this new leg of my career but I am ecstatic to have been able to bring the Giants their first Cup."

A fan favorite, Gibbles puck possession and sight on the ice has made him a valuable part of the team for his tenure. Dubbed "Professor" by his teammates, Gibbles has been improving his defensive game steadily, leading the league in take-aways for 2 seasons. His greatest upside from many scouts view had been his ability to break down a play and take control of the ice. While Giants Head Coach Jimmy Hoffa hoped to have Gibbles return for another season before joining the SMJHL, he wished for a lucky start to his former player's new path.

"He will be missed here at the Giants Organization, he was truly a leader in the locker room and outside. We hope he'll have success and make us proud going forward" - Jimmy Hoffa

Expectations are high for fans of Gibbles. Many hope he will be drafted by the Detroit Falcons in the entry draft so they can continue to watch his development. Always staying local, his foray into the SMJHL will be his first career move outside of Grand Rapids. Many eyes will be watching to see if he will soar above expectations or sink below. Expect us to continue coverage of this bright star here at the GR Gazette.

Grant Nugent ~ GR Gazette Hockey Writer

Mayuu · 12-18-2018, 04:43 PM

Nice first article. Love the nick name!

Keep it up! =)

RETIRED

DeletedAtUserRequest · 12-19-2018, 04:11 AM

+1

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