Manchester Storm assistant coach Mike Morin has lived and breathed the club for almost 30 years so it’s no surprise that he was proud to see them claim a spot in the Elite League play-offs for the first time.

Not many people will have enjoyed the highs or endured the lows since the club was formed, but Morin has as both a player and from behind the bench.

So, no-one would have enjoyed Sunday’s penalty shootout success over Nottingham Panthers to reach the final four more, even if it was quite the emotional rollercoaster.

“It was one of the most exciting and stressful nights of my hockey career,” Mike confessed. “I was extremely proud of every player and every member of this organisation.

This season has had all the best parts of all the previous ten. Cam has a demand that we get better each day, and I believe we’ve been doing that since day one.

We always learned from our mistakes and always strived to be better, year on year, day to day and it’s led to this weekend.”

Mike was in the team and part of Manchester’s last play-off appearance, where they lost in the British Superleague event in 2002, going down 4-3 in a shootout to Sheffield Steelers, in the final, against whom Storm will play this Saturday in the semi-final.

And he took a moment to reflect on that day and the lessons he took from that heartbreaking loss – something he still carries now.

“That loss in 2002 was as close as we ever got,” he said.

“That afternoon, we battled to the end and came up short. We possibly didn’t fully believe we could beat the mighty Steelers and in the end, they had that little extra confidence and belief.

Those are lessons that never leave a player and carries on throughout your life. Having the will and mindset to win is what all great teams work towards. Watching them celebrate after getting so close was a real low point but a lesson was learned.”

Now, 24 years on, another showdown with the Steelers is just days away as Storm look to defy expectations once again with a place in Sunday’s final at stake.

And he paid tribute to head coach Cameron Critchlow and the work he’s done in his first season behind the bench, while also revealing what the message will be with the players ahead of another big night.

He said: “I’m not surprised in the least at how well Cam has dealt with his new role. Sitting upstairs and standing on the bench with two past captains and consummate professionals is a joy each day.

Cam has a great mix of old school coaching and an understanding of the modern player. To watch him and listen to him is inspiring. He is open and honest and willing to learn. There is no limit to what he will accomplish.

On Saturday, we need to believe we can win. We will be prepared and ready, but so will they.

The guys won’t be satisfied with just being there and will play smart and hard just like they have all year.

The togetherness of this group is rare, and when that happens special things can happen. We will focus on one goal and play like there is no tomorrow.”

By: Craig Anderson