Ice Awarded NEAJBHL Organization of the Year

Captain Curtis Witney named 2nd Team All Star

“You look at the big picture and what we’re doing around [town]. We had 17 out of 23 kids were local. We were the least penalized team in the league and what we’ve been doing in the community and with our sponsors,” Coach of the Cold Lake Jr B Ice, Scott Hood, says the club had a very successful season; despite exiting the post-season in the first round. After being awarded Organization of the Year by the Northeast Jr B Hockey League, it appears the league also believes the Ice are doing something right.

It’s a positive attitude that trickles down to the players and is seen by the parents, “we’ve heard nothing but positive from the parents of the players.” One player in particular stood out, not only in the Ice’s organization, but also in the NEAJBHL; Curtis Witney. Graduating this season after donning the captain’s C, Witney was awarded the 2nd Team All-Star from the league. Basically, it’s an award that goes to a player who has shown not only skill, but the off-ice attibutes that make a truly great player; including, positive attitudes, sportsmanlike behaviours, team mentality and leadership. Witney was also named the team’s co-MVP, sharing the honours with Jason Hamilton.

Captain of the Cold Lake Ice Curtis Witney awarded 2nd Team All Star

“There’s some local kids that are coming up and you’ve gotta keep looking for who’s out there,” Coach Hood says players came from all over the local area; Cold Lake, Goodsoil, Meadow Lake, Bonnyville. “We had everybody from the area, it’s just a matter of finding the kids that want to play here and join our program.”

Being awarded Organization of the Year solidifies that the Ice are doing something right, says Hood, “there’s a handful of people that work hard for this organization. We’re always looking for volunteers to help keep this team going. It’s everybody. It’s the players, the coaches, Ron, Shawn and Nate who show up to practice with me. It’s because we love the kids and we want to see them succeed.” It’s the little extra things that are done behind the scenes that really drive the organization, “Les Wilson (President of the Ice) does a fantastic job. ”

Hood says he never stops thinking hockey, in the off-season he’ll be keeping a watch on what’s happening, “you’ve always got your ears open and talking hockey.” There won’t be a lot of time to sit back and reflect for the coach, spring camp is coming up in April.