When it comes to local minor hockey, passion is the name of the game and it grows from the youth on the ice to those behind the bench.
Head coach of the Minto Mad Dogs U15 team, Brian Vines is a prime example of passion for a team and his players, who was recently named the Ontario Minor Hockey Association Coach of the Month for November.
Vines grew up playing hockey in Kurtzville, still spending time playing old timer hockey in Palmerston but as head coach for the Mad Dogs, Vines says he puts plenty of confidence with his team to be not only better players, but better people.
“I’m a positive person and I strive to help them with good values so they can be outstanding young citizens on and off the ice. I enjoy seeing their enthusiasm in a win or loss, I try to keep a smile on their face.” said Vines
Vines, who is a non parent coach says to have the support from his players and their parents is overwhelming and to receive the Coach of the Year honour.
“I gotta say the parents and the kids are just fantastic. I enjoy going to the arena all the time, it’s quite the commitment and its so much fun. Just seeing the parents and the kids all smiling and trying to develop their hockey skills.”
Its far from any slowdown for the Mad Dogs who look to grab as many wins as they can and grow.
“It’s a matter now of just getting out and playing and getting into practices and trying to develop each individual player and get team bonding, playing better as a team and try and string some wins together”
Vines adds its also more than just himself as the coach which adds to the strength of the team.
“I can’t say enough of the staff too, Carla Vansickle our manager she is outstanding. Chuck Elison and Nick Reynolds as assistant coaches and Pam Moore our trainer”
