YORKTON - The Yorkton Kinsmen Maulers close out their season with a record of 11 wins, 32 losses, one overtime loss, and a total of 23 points.
Head Coach Jason Gordon expressed satisfaction with the team's development over the season, noting significant growth and increased competitiveness in the second half.
“When I look back on the season we showed a lot of growth. Our team got stronger and more competitive in the second half,” said Gordon in an interview with Â鶹´«Ã½.
The Maulers faced challenges, but the tight-knit group remained resilient and committed to learning from their losses, said Gordon who highlighted the positive aspects of the season, including the players' involvement in the community, their academic excellence and strong practice sessions.
Despite not winning every game, the Maulers managed to beat every team in the league at least once, except for the top two teams, the Regina Pat Canadians and the Moose Jaw Winmar Warriors.
“We know to compete with those top teams what we need to do and I think it's a good stepping stone for the direction we're headed into next season,” said Gordon.
The team had a mix of experience with 13 rookies and only seven returning players. Gordon emphasized the rookies' quick learning curve and the need for a few more months to make the playoffs.
“We have 11 spots to fill so we're in the process of recruiting our affiliated players first,” said Gordon.
The upcoming spring camp on April 16-17 has generated significant interest, with many teams reaching out due to the open spots. The team is looking to recruit two goalies, four defensemen, and five forwards.
Reflecting on the season, Gordon acknowledged the life lessons learned through hockey, including dealing with adversity, sticking together and being resilient.
“Our goal was to make the playoffs this year and we were really driven to that,” said Gordon.
Despite missing the playoffs, several Maulers players have been called up to Junior teams, including the Weyburn Red Wings, La Ronge Ice Wolves, Yorkton Terriers, Kindersley Klippers and Saskatoon Royals.
“All of our players are enjoying an extended season. It might not be with the Maulers but now they've moved up to their Junior clubs and that's the ultimate goal from a development standpoint,” said Gordon.
Looking ahead to the next season, Gordon emphasized the importance of starting strong and avoiding long losing streaks. He expressed confidence in the team's progress toward making the playoffs and praised the leadership and dedication of the players.
“I couldn't say enough about the leadership group and the players that were there. It's a testament that they are moving on to those higher levels already,” said Gordon.
