From Winnipeg Jets to Phoenix Coyotes and Coyotes’ first divisional title win-NHL News
The 2011-2012 National Hockey League (NHL) season has turned out to be the most successful one for Phoenix Coyotes since for the first time in the 33-year history of the franchise, it has won the division title.
Coyotes, formerly the Winnipeg Jets, confirmed the Pacific Division title to their brand by beating Minnesota Wild 4-1 at the Xcel Energy Centre, on Saturday, April 07, 2012.
The historical win came for the organisation after a period of 33 years as the Winnipeg Jets first, and later as the Phoenix Coyotes, thus, it turned out to be the most exciting time for their veteran fans and players alike.
No one claimed to be so much pleased over the outcome of the season for the team as much right wing, Shane Doan, who has been a part of the team since breaking into the league and joining the team then known to be the Winnipeg Jets in 1995.
Although the entire career of the player is full of remarkable memories, nothing had come for him as best as the winning of the title.
The win is also special for the player as well as the Phoenix organisation given that it is the only title that they have won over the past three decades.
Doan is reported to be thrilled over the achievement, and said:
"This organisation has given a lot to me though too, it's a two way street, they've been very generous to me. It feels really special.”
He added:
“When you get drafted by a team, you get brought in by a team, you have a job to do, that is to win. It's nice to have something. Now we have a banner up. It only took 17 years, that's not too bad."
The team has also prominently noted Doan’s commitment and loyalty to the side, which sets itself as a rare example in the sports industry.
Coyotes’ coach, Dave Tippett, while offering his compliments to the player said:
"He's put a lot of time and energy into building this franchise, trying to move it forward. The organisation should be very thankful for the work, effort and commitment he's made to this group."
No matter what the side achieves in the playoffs, finishing on top of the division is the highest mark and achievement for them, so far.
Coyotes’ entire squad has been celebrating the triumph. Even more joyous are the team’s fans, especially those who had remained loyal to the side during all ups and downs of the past.
The Coyotes are happy over experiencing a journey, which marks the change of the name, jerseys, front office and location, and now they have given a new phase of life to their successful run of many years.
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