With momentum building and the season edging toward a final play-off push, RMB got on the throttle and notched a critical shutout win against neighborhood-rival, Altoona, 3-0 on Tuesday's Hockey Night in Eau Claire, then followed up with a defensively-stingy effort in Viroqua Saturday afternoon, 4-0. The two wins thrust the Saints' total to a program record (13) for the season, more than twice the wins registered last year, and within striking distance of the total wins logged in the previous six years combined!

Not lost in that success was the continued support and crowds that are gathering around the rinks and recognizing the growth. "It's been a real treat for all of us to enjoy this ride together. We realize that without everyone's involvement, this is not possible," remarked Head Coach Guy Brown. "Our players and entire staff thrive off the energy that a good crowd brings and we understand that as long as we do our job (on and off the ice) they'll continue to show up. We're two years into our rebuilding plan, and we feel like we're right where we want to be."

Last week's s gains on the ice were also marked by a considerable outpouring of support for the "White-Out" conducted in honor of injured Benilde-St. Margaret's player, Jack Jablonski. The players, along with schoolmates, fans and administration were able to put their money where their mouth is, raising over $800 that will go 100% toward the Jack Jablonski Fund on behalf of RMB Hockey. "Our hockey family continues to exceed our expectations and the fact that the kids are the ones who are coming up with these different ideas and ways to give back is amazing," said Assistant Coach Kevin Hickey. "I know it sounds scripted, but every last one of these kids 'gets it' and they're looking for ways to make this a better program, a better place period; not just in the win column. I can't tell you how personally gratifying this is for me to be a part of."

With nicks and bruises to heal from and systems to reinforce prior to the play-off push, RMB finds itself with a welcome week off from competition and a chance to focus on the job ahead. The Saints will be back in action in Black River Falls on Tuesday, January 24th and then follow with a hockey/basketball double header in Chippewa Falls against Pacelli Thursday, the 26th. Fans should note that the Thursday game is a 5 PM start, with the Regis/McDonell boys basketball game to follow in the McDonell gym. We hope you'll make plans to attend both that night!