The Kitchener Rangers, a prominent junior ice hockey team based in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, fielded an exciting roster in the 2012-2013 season. This article delves into the Kitchener Rangers roster 2012, highlighting key players, their positions, and notable achievements during that season.
Understanding the 2012-2013 Kitchener Rangers Roster
The 2012-2013 season saw the Rangers competing in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), one of the top junior ice hockey leagues in North America. The team's roster was a blend of veteran players and promising rookies, each bringing unique skills and attributes to the ice.
Goaltenders
The Rangers' goaltending duo in the 2012-2013 season was a mix of experience and youth. John Gibson, a 19-year-old rookie, was a standout performer, earning the starting position. Gibson, a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, played in 46 games, posting a commendable 2.71 goals-against average (GAA) and a .914 save percentage.
Backing up Gibson was Matthew Maggio, a 20-year-old veteran who appeared in 17 games. Maggio, a product of the Rangers' minor hockey system, provided valuable support and mentorship to Gibson throughout the season.
Defensemen
The Rangers' defensive corps in the 2012-2013 season was a balanced mix of size, skill, and experience. Ryan Murphy, a 19-year-old offensive-minded defenseman, led the team in scoring from the blue line with 66 points in 62 games. Murphy, a first-round pick of the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, was a key contributor to the Rangers' offensive success.
Other notable defensemen included Ben Fanelli, a 20-year-old veteran who provided leadership and a physical presence on the ice, and Frank Corrado, an 18-year-old rookie who brought a mix of skill and grit to the Rangers' blueline.
Forwards
The Rangers' forward group in the 2012-2013 season was led by a talented trio of forwards: Radek Faksa, Matt Puempel, and Curtis Meighan. Faksa, a 17-year-old rookie, led the team in scoring with 77 points in 67 games, earning him the OHL's Emms Family Award as the league's top rookie.
Puempel, a 19-year-old winger, was another key contributor, tallying 65 points in 62 games. Meighan, a 20-year-old veteran, provided leadership and a physical presence, chipping in with 58 points in 68 games.
Other notable forwards included Max Iafrate, a 19-year-old power forward who provided size and skill up front, and Brent Pedersen, an 18-year-old rookie who brought speed and energy to the Rangers' lineup.
Notable Achievements in the 2012-2013 Season
The 2012-2013 season was a successful one for the Kitchener Rangers, as they finished with a record of 42-20-4-2, good for second place in the OHL's Midwest Division. The team's regular-season success carried over into the playoffs, as the Rangers advanced to the OHL Finals before ultimately falling to the London Knights in six games.
Individually, several Rangers players earned recognition for their performances during the 2012-2013 season. Radek Faksa's impressive rookie campaign earned him a spot on the OHL's First All-Rookie Team, while John Gibson was named to the OHL's Second All-Star Team. Additionally, Rangers head coach Steve Spott was named the OHL's Coach of the Year.
Looking Ahead to the Future
While the 2012-2013 season may have ended in disappointment for the Kitchener Rangers, the team's strong performance and the development of its young players bode well for the future. With a talented core of players returning for the 2013-2014 season, the Rangers will look to build on their success and make another run at the OHL championship.
The Kitchener Rangers roster 2012 was a testament to the team's commitment to developing young talent and competing at the highest level. As the Rangers look ahead to the future, they will continue to strive for excellence on and off the ice, both for their players and their passionate fan base.
