Leadership biggest factor in success for Colorado Eagles

Ashley Potts/Colorado EaglesThe Colorado Avalanche ended their season on a sour note, getting eliminated in seven games against the Dallas Stars. At the same time, the Colorado Eagles enjoyed their most successful season in franchise history. Colorado had the best home record in the American Hockey League at 26–6–2–2 and clinched the regular season Western Conference title in just Aaron Schneekloth’s second season as head coach. The key to all of this was veteran leadership.

“There’s no question that our veterans led the way,” said Schneekloth. “They did the heavy lifting, and I’m real proud of that. They were able to take some of our younger players under their wing and help with the…