New skates. New coach. New season. The Stockton Thunder kicked off their season opener with a 5-0 shutout over the Colorado Eagles Saturday night. The team is led by new head coach Rich Kromm, who brings with him a total of ten years of coaching experience. Unlike Thunder teams of the past, this year’s came out with a bang. The team exhibit fast skating, endurance, strong goaltending, and an aggressive playing style.

The organization in the past found itself running out of gas during the third period which often resulted in goals or the lost of the game. Through all three 20 minute periods the Thunder kept the same level of intensity allowing them to dominate over the Eagles.

Goaltender Brian Foster stood strong in net with a total of 29 saves. Many of them causing jaw dropped fans to cheer in amazement.

If five goals and 29 saves weren’t enough to rile up the crowd of 6,786 fans, the game contained four fights. The Thunder were also constantly being sent to the penalty box,  because of their scrappy playing style.

After the first game of the season the team seems to be well prepared for games to come. They might even be the most prepared to take the first Kelly Cup Championship for the organization.

What’s worrisome is the Thunder might be peaking in the start of the season while everyone else is continuing to improve. If the Thunder do not improve as the season progresses they will surely be surpassed in ranks and have no chance at the cup.

Only time will tell if this new coach and style of play will carry the team to victory as the season comes to an end.

To see the Thunder in action, check them out as they take on the Ontario Reign tonight at 7:00pm at the Stockton Arena. To see a full game schedule visit their website at www.stocktonthunder.com.