Early in the second period, after the Anoka-Hennepin adapted floor hockey team had scored its seventh goal, the trio responsible for all of them -- linemates Zach Theroux, Tyler Kurkowski and Austin Fraser -- celebrated with tapped gloves, knowing glances, even a Tim Tebow pose while a vocal fan called it:
"Very nice teamwork!"
They were barely half-done.
Six more goals went in before the period was over. Their outburst capped a second unbeaten season for the Mustangs (16-0) and a second championship with a 13-3 defeat of St. Cloud Area in the Cognitively Impaired Division of the state tournament at Bloomington Jefferson High School.
During the team photo celebration after the victory, Mustangs players held up both hands to show seven digits. They have won seven consecutive adapted sports state championships -- two in soccer, three in floor hockey and two in softball.
"These kids really play with heart and soul," said Anoka-Hennepin coach Bill Newell, who got a water-bottle victory dousing from Kurkowski after the game.
Of seniors Theroux and Kurkowski, he said: "Zach and Tyler are relentless. You aren't going to find any better competitors anywhere, and they're also good kids. They like to get everyone involved, regardless of skill level and experience.
Kurkowski, sporting team color purple hair for his 18th birthday, credited his teammates, coaches and fans. "It's no big deal, it's just a game," he said.
