Heading into their fourth season the women of the Ecofish Whaler’s hockey team have a lot to be thankful for. “We’ve got a great group of women that turn up every week to practice, despite our late ice time. We have great coaches and we are fortunate to have 2 main sponsors, Ecofish Research Ltd and Brian McLean” remarks team organizer Kelly Roloff. The Whaler’s feel they have come along way since the conception of the team and look forward to proving themselves at the Nanaimo tournament this weekend!
Coaching has played a huge role in transforming a rookie team into a group of women that can compete in games up and down the island. The coaching staff led by Jordan Butcher, head coach of the Glacier Kings has dedicated so much of their time over the last 2 years and according to some of the Whalers loyal fans “It’s starting to pay off! The ladies are making great passes and learning correct positioning.” Butcher along with Keenan Eggland, Cody King and Evan show up at 10:00 at night and run a fast paced but still fun practice. “It’s not as easy as you would think running drills with 20 ladies of all different skill levels. With four coaches everyone gets one on one coaching throughout the practice.” says team captain Tera Kasubuchi. With generous donations from their sponsors the Whalers are able to lace up the skates usually twice a week which has also helped with the skill level on the team.
Ecofish Research Ltd has been the main sponsor for the Whalers for two years now. Brian MacLean has always been a player sponsor until this year the car dealership has become a full team sponsor. “With our sponsors generosity the Whaler’s are able to keep the ice costs affordable and still compete in games and tournaments.” Says Kasubuchi. The Whalers would also like to thank Canadian Western Bank and the Flip Flop Shops (Nanaimo) for their player sponsorship. If you are interested in joining the team email cvwhalers@gmail.com or check out their blog at courtenaywhalers.wordpress.com. for more information.
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