Feb. 28 / 08

By Guy Bertrand
Times Sports Editor

There was a different atmosphere at last night's Trail Smoke Eaters banquet.

Instead of the usual comments like "what might may have been," and good luck in the future, their was still a quiet desire by the players to paint their own finish to the season.

While the evening focused on the achievements of the players during the regular season, there was also an air of anticipation for what remained this year.

"It's not a party right now because (the season's) not over," said head coach Jim Ingram.

"This is a nice way to say thanks to everybody and hand out some awards. We're not done yet and we don't feel done."

Late last night, the Smokies' first-round opponent was finally confirmed after the Prince George Spruce Kings were blanked 7-0 by the Quesnel Millionaires.

That kept the Smokies hold on fifth place intact and set up a first- round matchup with the Vernon Vipers.

Game 1 is set for Friday in Vernon with Game 2 on Saturday. The series will shift to the Cominco Arena on Monday night for Game 3 and Tuesday for Game 4 if necessary.

There was a sentiment last night that the only way that series could end in three games is if the Smokies completed the sweep.

That attitude has been buoyed on by a three-week stretch of solid hockey highlighted by a four- game winning run at the end of the season.

"We think we have a game plan and know what we have to do," said Ingram. "But we just have to play within ourselves.

"One thing we have right now is our team unity. What that amounts to, we'll know within a week."

There was plenty of enthusiastic applause when the Smokies handed out the season's individual hardware.

Captain Kevin Limbert and goaltender Grant Rollheiser shared the team's Most Valuable Player Award.

Limbert also carted home a special award for sportsmanship and hard work as well as the team's top scorer.

Rollheiser also came back for seconds earning the team's Rookie of the Year Award.

Scott Warner was named the team's top defenceman and Patrik Martin was picked as the most improved player.

Paul Mailey was voted the Fan Favorite while Brad Davis was selected the most inspirational.

Ryan Bulach, who is out for the season with an injury, was selected the most dedicated player on the team.

Guy Bertrand photo

AWARD WINNERS: The Trail Smoke Eaters presented their 2007-08 player awards at its annual banquet last night at the Riverbelle. From the left, Ryan Bulach, most dedicated; Patrik Martin, most improved; Paul Mailey, fan favorite; Kevin Linibert, sportsmanship, top scorer and co-MVP; Grant Rollheiser, top rookie and co-MVP; Brad Davis, most inspirational; Scott Warner, top defenceman.