Klippers adjusting to new roster makeup
By Jordan Parker
After a week-long break, the Kindersley Klippers returned with a thud as they were felled 4-2 by the Notre Dame Hounds on Sunday.
With three goals allowed in the first period, goalie Brett Sweet was pulled in favour of Matthew Pesenti, who picked up duties for the remainder of the game.
Sweet faces 22 shots in just one period, more than Pesenti would face the rest of the game.
“We just went down early, and Brett Sweet did nothing with his play to make us take him out. We just wanted momentum,” said Assistant Coach Mitch Topinka.
“We wanted to get the juice going, and the only reason we switched goalies is because we thought it might give the guys an energy boost.”
Topinka said the team tried to come back – and had an admirable effort – but it wasn’t enough.
“It was just a hit-and-miss game. We started okay but then we sat back and watched through the game. It was frustrating after the first,” he said.
“They’re a good team there in Notre Dame, but our second and third were played really well. It’s just tough to come back from being down three. We pressed, and if we’d played that way the whole game, we could’ve won.”
With last weeks slew of trades, the team remains without an Assistant Captain and Captain, with Logan Linklater wearing an A. This is a way for the team to push for greatness and recognition.
“It’s been a big change, but we want to give all these guys a chance to show their leadership. We want everyone getting into things,” he said.
“The doors are open for people to step in and step up. We will announce the ones wearing the letters after Christmas.”
Topinka says the new players are providing some much-needed new energy to the team.
“Brayden Koch played well Sunday, as did Josh Morton. It’s a shame Josh got hurt sunday, and now he’ll be out for 10 days. It’s not the best start, but that’s how it goes,” he said.
“Andrew Blocker also brought some speed and jam to the game too. It was a decent start and I’m looking forward to working with the guys. It’s important to see what they can bring.”
New defenseman Brayden Koch is happy with the role he’s already taking with the time. He was excited to play his first game Sunday.
“I’ve really enjoyed myself so far. We’re a good group of guys. I’m excited to get things rolling, and everyone is super welcoming,” he said.
“Coming to a new team has been an adjustment, especially with not knowing everyone. But coaches have helped a lot, and I’m really happy so far.”
With some roster changes comes a big chance for Koch and those around him.
“With some D-men injured and some changes, I have plenty of opportunity to show what I can do,” he said. “I just want to help as much as I can and help this team win games.
“We have to come together, stick to our gameplan, and if we do what works for us we can beat a lot of teams in the league.”
PHOTO COURTESY KINDERSLEY KLIPPERS
