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The Blind River Beavers are on a winning streak. Recently accomplishing their 17th Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League win in a row, Head Coach Kyle Brick says last year's early exit is fueling the fire.
“Things seem to be going in our favour right now. The team is playing well, and they're having a lot of fun at the rink,” Brick says, adding that leadership is one of the most critical aspects they're focusing on.
“Our returning players are really paving the way for the younger guys, showing them not only how to act on the ice but how to be a good pro off the ice as well,” he says.
Despite the team's recent success and the positive buzz felt by the team and community, Brick says the message remains the same: trophies aren’t handed out in January, and the team needs to be ready to compete come playoff time.
Outside the rink, the team takes pride in volunteering within the community, including involvement with Minor Hockey, Christmas Cheer and handing out Halloween candy.
“You can pretty much bet if there is a big community event, the Beavers will be there,” Brick says.
Brick, who has been Head Coach for eight seasons, says when he first started, the relationship between the team and the community was damaged and needed to be repaired. By creating “a good on-ice product” and participating in community events like parades, markets and fairs, Blind River got to know and take pride in its hockey team.
“Without the community support, we don't have a hockey team, and the players realize that,” Brick says. “We try and give back every chance we get.”
Now, with a strong relationship, Brick hopes they can bring Blind River the championship win it deserves.
“We’re going to do everything we can to make that happen,” he says.
Learn more about the Blind River Beavers online here.
