Speaking at the recent Yorkton Harvest awards ceremony and banquet outgoing president Garth Simms says he might have been happier with more wins and making the playoffs. The majority of the team were young, just 15 and 16 years old, which means many will be eligible to return next year. Some may move up to play junior hockey.
The team also had a first year coach. With a year of experience for both team and coach, Simms predicts a more positive season next year.
He points out that Kailum Gervais moved up to the Terriers this year while Blake McMillen, Dakota Odgers, Tanner LeSann and Josh Lees all got some playing time in junior A hockey in the SJHL. "I think you'll see several of our 17 year olds in the SJHL next year and some of our younger guys are going to get a long, hard look by teams in the WHL," Simms predicts.
The Harvest are in the business of developing players and will wish those players moving up well. The club will also welcome back any returning veterans, next year.
In addition to commenting on the past season, Simms took the opportunity to thank all the volunteers, billets, board members, team supporters and coaching staff, as well the players for their contributions to the team and its season.
While Simms is stepping down after two years as club president, he still has one term remaining on the board. After spending almost every day at the rink, He'd like to find some time to do things away from the rink. He has worked as a volunteer and board member for 12 years and has no plans to stop going to the arena. "My dad's 85 years old and he still goes to the rink most every day and I can't see myself being any different," Simms closes.
