As the Brandon varsity hockey team gets ready for the 2005-06 season, the Blackhawks have a new coach who hopes to build upon the success the program has established in its five-year history.
Former Carmen-Ainsworth coach Tim Stone was hired in October as the Blackhawks? new head man, replacing Brian Moore, who stepped down after the 2004-05 season, his fifth as Brandon coach.
Stone had been head coach at Carmen-Ainsworth since 1988, but the Cavaliers discontinued their hockey program after the 2004-05 season.
Last year, the Blackhawks went 25-2-1 and advanced to their third straight Division 3 state quarterfinals before losing to eventual Division 3 champion Orchard Lake St. Mary’s.
As the team prepares for their season opener Friday, Nov. 18 against Port Huron at the Polar Palace in Lapeer, Stone likes what he sees from the team.
‘They’ve got a wonderful work ethic,? he said. ‘That will carry you a long way, not just in hockey, but in life. They’re a real mature group, and have good leadership. They bring a wealth of experience ? most of the guys we’ve got here have been here two or three years. That’s invaluable experience.?
The Blackhawks have big shoes to fill in the goaltending department, as longtime starter David Hughes has graduated. However, Stone said he is confident in the abilities of returning junior Jeff Hammond and newcomer Glen Kendrick, a senior.
‘I’ve been very pleased with both,? he said. ‘In our two scrimmages, they’ve both played well. I think we’ll be pretty solid in that department.?
Although Stone said the team has not set any formal goals for the upcoming season, he said the team would like to repeat as Flint Metro League champions and repeat as regional champions.
In addition, Stone is trying to familiarize himself with a new league after competing in the Big Nine Conference with Carmen-Ainsworth.
‘I’ve played several of those schools at Carmen-Ainsworth, just not on a regular basis,? he said. ‘Right now, my biggest concern is our team and ensuring we do the things we need to do and do them the right way.?
Stone is confident the Blackhawks will absorb those lessons.
‘They’re just an enjoyable group of kids to work with,? he said. ‘They’re eager to learn. They really want to do things the right way.?