DS: With 13 days off, how did you and the rest of the team enjoy the break? The North Stars fundraiser at Jackfish Lake Ice Fishing Derby is a big event, certainly another reminder as to why this team is so special to the Battlefords, and vice versa. In your eyes, why is it important to get the players involved within the community?
KH: The break was well earned. Our staff and players had a very busy schedule leading up to Christmas. With some careful scheduling and some hard work days, our time was managed efficiently. The Jackfish Lake Fishing Derby is the North Stars major fundraiser, so we are a big part of it. Without this community, the team would not exist. So many amazing people have contributed to this team over the years, all of them have helped forge the identity of this program.
DS: The North Stars have now clinched the division. They are also five points up on Melfort for first place in the SJHL. Coming into the season, seeing what this team offered in camp, did you believe they would have this kind of success? What were your expectations?
KH: Every year our expectations are to finish first and contend, never will this team prepare any differently. The challenge in Junior Hockey comes with the changeover in roster year after year. If you work hard and prepare, any unexpected twists that happen can be overcome.
DS: With just seven games to play, what are the goals and what is the message for your team heading into the final stretch? We talked about the mark of a great team several times, but one of them has to be finishing the season on a high note and not coasting into the playoffs, would you agree?
KH: Our goals have remained consistent from each key point of the season. The players are on task to earn the goals we have set as a team and we all remind each other of them every day we are together. I completely agree with you regarding how you play, regardless of the time of season, we want to play at our best, and we want to improve daily.
DS: As the season winds down and the playoff picture begins to shape out, is it hard not thinking about possible first round opponents? Or are you already starting to get prepped for every possible outcome?
KH: We will prepare for every potential opponent we face. Our preparations this week have been focused on the Yorkton Terriers whom are highly competitive and in control of the final playoff spot. Because of the race for that spot that they have been in, they are also playing some of their best hockey of the year. This Friday will be a big test for our team.
DS: With one game this week, the North Stars have some time off, how will you and the team be making use of the days between games?
KH: During the week, our focus is centered on preparing for the Yorkton Terriers. Our players will practice every day and look after themselves away from the rink. Team building will be the primary focus for the leaders and remaining staff since I will be looking to get on the road to seek prospects for next year’s roster over the weekend.
DS: I know you don't pay much attention to the rankings, but the North Stars are now ranked 10th in the entire country. How does it feel to not only be the team to beat in the SJHL, but to get recognized as one of the best teams in Canada at the junior level?
KH: Our players have worked extremely hard to earn that position and it is something I hope they are very proud of. As a staff we are extremely proud of them. However, I know I speak on behalf of all the players and staff, it is not why we are here and doing what we are doing.
DS: With the number one ranked power play unit and fifth ranked penalty kill, you have to be pleased with the way the North Stars have handled their special teams thus far. Coming off the break, is it key to get them going again, especially against a strong power play team like the Terriers?
KH: The special teams is an area we prepare just like all other aspects of our game. To have earned those rankings at this point in the season did not come by fluke, our players and staff have worked very hard and earned respect on the special teams. We will continue to develop in those areas, they will definitely be contributing factors in the success of the playoffs.
DS: Even though the North Stars have swept Yorkton this year, outscoring them 14-3 in three games, what is the game plan heading into Friday’s game? As you said before, this is a good, young team that can be a potential force come playoff time. Will you be approaching this game any differently, knowing that this is a potential first-round matchup?
KH: The game plan is simple, outwork them. We want to win all races to loose pucks, and more importantly we want to establish our game. We will key in on strengths of the Terriers and do our best to neutralize them. Our players will be well prepared for them.
DS: The North Stars are 4-1-0-1 after being off for five or more days. What do you attribute this success to? What do you look for in your team in their first game back from a break?
KH: That’s an interesting stat Dustin, I really had no idea. Our leadership has to be a big part of that. They work hard to keep things on track away from the rink, managing the daily routines and establishing good habits. It's critical we keep things simple and keep the puck protected. If we manage the game and play responsibly, our team will be fine.
DS: Ryan Rewerts, Taryn Kotchorek and Tyler Fuhr have all showed potential to be the guy you can turn to in a big game. I know you have said Rewerts is in the drivers’ seat, but is this final stretch of games important for each netminder to prove they can also be the number one goalie come playoff time?
KH: We are confident in all three goaltenders! I'm not sure where I mentioned that Ryan is in the driver's seat, however I will say he has continually played well in all of his starts since Christmas break and has earned and been prepared for every opportunity he has been given. I don't know if we can ask for anything more than that. The focus of our goalies has to be on practicing hard, and playing their best when they are called upon. Based on the last few games, all of them have done this for the team!
