Anyone, who has watched the Battlefords AAA Sharks during the previous four seasons likely would have noticed one player on the ice.
That player catching everyone's attention was Amanda Grainger. Her 50? frame was often what first drew spectators' attention, but it was her work ethic and determination that could mesmerize those watching.
After playing 109 games in the Saskatchewan Female Midget AAA Hockey League, Grainger's hard work and dedication paid off, as she committed to Liberty University for the 2011-12 hockey season.
Grainger has combined her outstanding work ethic with some offensive flair this season and leads her Liberty Lady Flames in points with 16 goals and 12 assists and is tied for eighth on the American Collegiate Hockey Association Women's Division I leader board.
Grainger has helped Liberty earn the top spot on the Women's Div. I ranking, as they were off to a 10-1-0 start when the first of four ranking lists was released. Those who follow the league closely feel the Flames are on the verge of advancing to the ACHA women's final for the first time in the school's history.
Not bad for the little hockey player from Warmen.
Heading into the holiday break, Liberty is 12-5-1 and in third place in the standings.
In four seasons with the Sharks, Grainger had seven goals and 11 assists, and now her offensive production has increased in Liberty and her coach Paul Bloomfield is impressed with what he has seen from the freshman.
Grainger was the captain of the Sharks in her final season and was just one of the three third-year midgets players on the team last season. This season, Grainger is one of eight freshman on the 14-player roster, but she has been one of the top players from the start of this season.
In the five-year history of the SFMAAAHL the Sharks have had 13 players graduate and commit to hockey programs with Canadian or American schools.
Courtney Laycock was the only other Shark to commit to a school after last season. Laycock plays in the ACHA Women's Div. II with Rainy River Community College. In six games, Laycock has two goals this season.
Other Sharks who have gone on to play some university or college hockey include: Megan Entwistle, Tehnille Gard, Erin Heinemann, Sarah Oliphant, Ashley Kuechle, Brittney Kaye, Lauren Campbell, Ashley Blaquiere, Kendra Ganchar, Chelsea Lande and Lynette Anderson.
