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Wolves end worst season in franchise history

While there was disappointment, it was almost a relief when the horn went at TD Place in Ottawa Sunday afternoon to signal the end of the game between the hometown Ottawa 67's and the Sudbury Wolves.
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The Sudbury Wolves pay tribute to overagers Brody Silk (above) and Jeff Corbett tomorrow night. The two played their entire OHL careers in the Nickel City. Nathan Pancel, another longtime Wolf who was traded to Peterborough at the deadline, will be in town in a Petes jersey for the game. Terry Wilson / OHL Images
While there was disappointment, it was almost a relief when the horn went at TD Place in Ottawa Sunday afternoon to signal the end of the game between the hometown Ottawa 67's and the Sudbury Wolves.

Not only had Ottawa skated to a 6-0 win, but it also ended the worst season in Wolves franchise history.

The loss left the Wolves season record at 12-54-1-1.

Despite the results, Wolves interim head coach Dave Matsos said he wished the season hadn't come to an end.

"We are just starting to form an identity that I really like" said Matsos.

"It's unfortunate because we were on the rise. I think we set the expectations of our game and the way we want to play and the work ethic we need to compete every single night.

"It's been a completely different mental battle for our guys to show up and compete every game, and I think that's a real compliment to the character of these guys."

Sunday's game also ended the junior hockey careers of Brody Silk and Jeff Corbett.

For Corbett, his season actually ended due to injury during a game against the Niagara Ice Dogs last weekend, but he travelled with the team for final three-game road trip.

"It's frustrating I wasn't able to play the last three games, but it was important to be here for the last game, be in the dressing room with the guys and take in the atmosphere," said Corbett.

"I have a lot of fond memories, and met a lot of great people during my time in Sudbury, and have grew a lot of friendships over the years. I have no regrets. It's been a special time and definitely unforgettable."

Silk was on the ice for the last shift Sunday afternoon and said it was a bittersweet feeling.

"After missing most of last season with shoulder surgery, I was glad I stayed healthy for the most part this year," said Silk.

"You want to help lead your team into the playoffs, and that didn't happen, and I take a lot of blame for that, but you have to move on."

Silk said one of his proudest moments was when he was named captain.

"It's been a huge honour. It's every kid's dream to wear a letter, and getting to be captain was truly a dream come true for me."

It will be a very busy off-season for the Wolves organization with the first order of business being the OHL Priority Selection where the Wolves have the first overall draft selection.

That takes place April 11 starting at 9 a.m. You can follow the draft at ontariohockeyleague.com.

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