Watch: 7 best things Tucson Roadrunners said in press conference before AHL playoffs
From Tucson being a "hockey town," to the unusual series format, check out what the Roadrunners had to say as they prepare for a run at the 2018 Calder Cup.
Tucson is a 'hockey town'
Updated
Tucson defenseman Andrew Campbell (2) left, and center Ryan MacInnis (72) come up to congratulate left wing Tye McGinn (16) for his empty netter that sealed a 3-0 win against Grand Rapids in their AHL game at Tucson Arena, Friday, April 6, 2018, Tucson, Ariz.
By Justin Spears / Arizona Daily Star
In its second season in the Old Pueblo, the Tucson Roadrunners, American Hockey League affiliate of the Arizona Coyotes, will compete in playoffs for the first time with hopes of claiming the Calder Cup.
The last time a Tucson minor league affiliate of any sport participated in playoffs was in 2006, when the Tucson Sidewinders won the PCL title, capped off by the Triple-A Championship in Oklahoma City.
The Roadrunners enter playoffs as the No. 1 seed with a 42-20 record, but will start their playoff run on the road against No. 8 San Jose Barracuda. The Roadrunners will play the first two games on the road and will finish the final three at the Tucson Convention Center. Games One and Two will be live streamed at Brother John's BBQ on Stone Avenue. Game One is on Thursday with Game Two on Saturday, both with a 7 p.m. puck drop.
Tucson Roadrunners president Bob Hoffman, general manager Steve Sullivan, head coach Mike Van Ryn and team captain Andrew Campbell spoke to the media Monday afternoon, watch what they had to say as the team prepares to hit the road to San Jose.
Team's growth in Tucson
UpdatedTucson Roadrunners president Bob Hoffman on the team’s engagement with the city and turning Tucson into a “hockey town”: pic.twitter.com/euDRcUPB7N
— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) April 16, 2018
Establishing a winning culture
UpdatedTucson Roadrunners general manager Steve Sullivan says the main goal was to “create a culture of winning. Our best bet was here in Tucson.” pic.twitter.com/wPHzTQWZGe
— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) April 16, 2018
Representing the city
UpdatedTucson Roadrunners head coach Mike Van Ryn on making the AHL playoffs: “We’re excited to get going, and we’re excited that Tucson gets to be a part of it.” pic.twitter.com/rPto7QW1gS
— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) April 16, 2018
Words from the captain
UpdatedTucson Roadrunners captain Andrew Campbell on the season and looking forward to playoffs: pic.twitter.com/kgpIN0CsXp
— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) April 16, 2018
How does the 2-3 playoff series work?
UpdatedDespite being the higher seed, the Roadrunners will start their playoff series against the San Jose Barracuda on the road. Why?General manager Steve Sullivan explains: pic.twitter.com/lJKCMWY8bV
— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) April 16, 2018
The opponent, and advice to the young players
Updated.@RoadrunnersAHL captain Andrew Campbell on facing San Jose, and giving advice to some of his teammates who are playing in the playoffs for the first time: pic.twitter.com/Ciw1fPvC4d
— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) April 16, 2018
Talent development and winning
UpdatedTucson Roadrunners head coach Mike Van Ryn on the balance between developing players and winning: “When you get that development and the guys follow that, the wins just come. ... It’s just trusting the process and knowing where you’re at with each guy.” pic.twitter.com/1WgFZ28rXe
— The Wildcaster (@TheWildcaster) April 16, 2018
