DS: After the Humboldt game, Assistant Coach for the Broncos, Brayden Klimosko, highly praised you and the North Stars, saying how it’s almost unfair to match up against your speed and size. He also complimented Igor Leonenko and his ability to bury pucks, especially against mismatches. What is your initial reaction when you see the recognition the North Stars are getting from around the league?
KH: We are very proud that the work we have been putting in is earning respect. It wasn't that long ago we were saying the same thing about the Humboldt Broncos. Brayden was a part of those special teams. We have a lot of work left this season, however, these young men deserve the pat on the back for the effort they have put in to date. Our staff is very proud of them.
DS: It seems almost every week Taryn Kotchorek has been getting better and better, registering two shutouts over the weekend. How mature has he become over the season? If the playoffs started today, he would have to be your go-to guy.
KH: Taryn has come a long ways since earning his spot on the team. He will continue to earn every opportunity and we have no doubt when those chances come, he will be prepared. The playoffs are still a long ways away and we will continue to evaluate the performance of our goaltenders one practice and one game at a time.
DS: Going into Humboldt you said preparation was key, walking away with a 6-0 victory, it seemed like your team had an answer for every aspect of the Broncos game.
KH: There was a lot to like in that game. I really thought the special teams factored into the success of that win. The team was focused and ready from the drop of the puck. It was a positive step in the right direction and we will build on all of the positives that came from that victory.
DS: How was the experience travelling to Pinehouse? Did the cold affect your players whatsoever? What was it like playing in front of a ton of fans who were eagerly awaiting junior A hockey?
KH: It was a great experience Dustin! The fans were extremely welcoming and the atmosphere was electric. We were honoured to play in a community with such pride. However cold it may have been, the excitement of that game kept everyone warm.
DS: The best offensive team in the league clashed with a top three defence in La Ronge. You had the feeling that something was going to give at some point. What were you telling the team in between periods and on the bench in order to keep them sharp in a game where one bounce could change everything?
KH: Our leaders were terrific in this game, especially between periods. They really stepped up between periods and calmed everyone down. Jake McMillen and his four years of experience was a huge part of the preparation between periods. Young players like Coby Downs contributed to the process as well. I also felt Jordan Wiest and Baxter Kanter led by example on the ice and matched everything physical that was thrown at us.
DS: The North Stars have had a strong showing against Melfort holding a record of 2-0 so far. For the first time you will be travelling to their barn. How important is it to walk into hostile territory and get a win, especially knowing that a win/loss against the Mustangs could be the difference between a one or two seed come playoffs?
KH: The Mustangs are a team that plays very well on their ice surface. Our players know this and all of our focus will be on earning two points in that rink. We can't wait for that challenge. What's most important is all of our players play their best and leave nothing behind.
DS: Flin Flon will be coming to the Civic Centre Saturday. The North Stars have yet to take a game against the Bombers this season, but they are walking into your house. Is it essential to set the tone early and score the first one instead of chasing the lead?
KH: Having a strong start to games has been one of our essential keys to success these past few weeks. Flin Flon is one of the hottest teams in the league to date. Alex Smith, Brandon Switzer, and Joel Kocur have been one of the most dynamic lines and we will have to be at our best to compete with this team on Saturday. An early lead will be welcoming, however, what's more important is that we compete for 60 minutes.
DS: You are 2-1 against the Bruins this year. It will also be the first time that Estevan will be making the trip to the Civic Centre. Is winning on home ice critical in your opinion? Last time we talked about shutting down the Darcy DeRoose line, will you be looking for certain matchups against his line again? Are you wanting a big night out of your power play unit seeing as Estevan has the worst PK unit in the league?
KH: DeRoose is certainly a player we will have to focus on. However, with Owen LaClare, Braden Oleskyn, Lynnden Pastachuk, Keegan Allison, and the Duret brothers in the mix, our defence will have to committed and positionally aware. Our staff will ensure our players are put in a position to be successful, the matchups will be fun and challenging in this game. Our power play has come up big this season, the expectations will be there for it to be a contributing factor again.
DS: Although neither Sych, Delainey and Young made the Team Canada West roster, how proud are you of them for representing the North Stars at a camp where not many get invited?
KH: We are extremely proud of these three. It was not an easy camp to compete in, every player was phenomenal. All three of them were deserving of the opportunity and all of them represented the SJHL and the North Stars with class!
DS: How will you and the team go about spending Christmas? How much time off are you giving them before getting back to business? Do you want the team to take their mind off of hockey completely or is it a time to relax and think about the season?
KH: It's all about family during this time. It's very difficult for players as passionate about the game like ours to completely shut down. I know they will continue to work on ways to improve their game, that's what dedicated athletes do. They will all depart on the 21st and will return on the 29th to prepare for our New Years Eve match up with Kindersley. For me, I can't wait to spend quality time with my entire family....no hockey!!....ummmm.....ok, maybe a little, but don’t tell Leah I mentioned this.
Merry Christmas to everyone!
