Ironhorse Jr Klippers look to play with more discipline
By Jordan Parker
The SJHL Kindersley Klippers are looking to shore up some important parts of their game to get to the next level.
After a heartbreaking 5-4 shootout loss to the Nipawin Hawks on Remembrance Day, Assistant Coach Brian McNaney and staff pinpointed some areas for work.
“The team just needs more discipline. Nipawin’s powerplay tore us apart,” said McNaney after all Nipawin’s goals were scored on the man advantage. They went 4/7 on the night.
“They’ve got a deadly set of players. They run their powerplay different than some other teams. It’s stoppable, but we need to get clears, and make sure their top guys don’t have the puck when the time is right. We just need to overall push for more discipline,” he said.
Some rough play on Saturday night vs the Hawks. PHOTO BY DOUG KLASSEN
The Klippers have also seen four shootout losses this season, in a time when points matter more than ever.
“We need that focus on shootouts. We’ve conceded four losses in a shootout now, and those are big points in the standings,” he said. “We need to put the puck in the net during shootouts.”
Following a hard-fought double-header against bruiser team La Ronge – one that featured plenty of misconducts and two difficult Klippers losses – McNaney says the style of play with the Hawks was different.
“It was just much less chippy. There was a good standard set by the referee on November 11, and she officiated really well,” he said.
“She drew a line in the sand, and you respect that as a coach. The right penalties were called on both teams when needed. But we need more discipline.”
Installed as team leaders right now are Captain Brayden Koch and Assistant Coaches Tylin Hilbig, Aidan Bangs and Josh Pufahl.
“They’ve been really great for this team so far,” said McNaney. “We’re happy with them. They’ve kept the locker room in check. They’re motivated, keep things trending in a positive direction, and they’re leading this ship the right way.”
Early season difficulties have plagued the Klippers, but one thing remains steadfast – Support from fans has been overwhelming.
Their opening night crowd was their largest of the season – at 1,004 -- but crowds for home games have been between 375 and 750 all season, giving plenty of fans a chance to see the team.
“The support has just been really impressive. We keep getting positive feedback, and people really just enjoy coming to the games,” he said.
“It’s just a fantastic feeling for not only the players, but the staff as well. It’s amazing that kids enjoy coming, and it’s especially exciting to see that arena busy after COVID-19. We’re very grateful for the support.”
McNaney is focused right now on ensuring the roster knows things can turn around, especially if they keep working toward little changes.
“We’re just telling the guys to stick to the process and things will work out. If we had those shootout wins, we’d be sitting two spots ahead right now, with games in-hand,” he said.
“There are a lot of positives to look at for this team, but we have to work. We can’t overthink or get stuck on the negatives. We’re just pushing for better outcomes.”
The Klippers split their two games against Nipawin over the weekend, losing 7-4 on Friday and bouncing back with a 6-3 win on Saturday.
Kindersley will next head to Yorkton on November 22, 2022, for an away-game battle.