Overall, Robertson said the players showed the commitment to win.
“We have a very young team this season with lots of first year players. It took a consistent ‘first place effort’ as head coach Guy Williams would say. The girls stayed focused throughout the ups and downs of a long AAA season, always eager to improve and learn. Puck and game management were key in the playoffs, using our team speed and moving the puck were key components as well.”
Players come from around the Westman region, including Boissevain, Deloraine, Chater, Brandon, Killarney, Glenboro, Waskada and Souris.
This year was special for everyone and not only because of a championship. The ongoing pandemic kept everyone off the ice for the 2020-21 season, so everyone was excited, hopeful and somewhat nervous going into this year. Everything worked out for the best.
“The season was great,” Robertson explained. “As with most teams we had ups and downs throughout, but it was a good year. The tryout camp took place in Souris throughout the September 3-5 weekend. So we have been going strong now for seven going on eight months.”
“It was huge to get to play again. I think that goes for any age group and for any sport.”
Robertson described the style of the team as using their strong team speed and they pass the puck well. They have a strong core from goaltending through the blueliners and up through the forward lines. They are at their best when they are skating hard and moving the puck.
The Boissevain contingent on the team, which includes Robertson, had a very good season and playoff. Goaltender Grace Glover won playoff MVP for her stellar performance between the pipes. Makenna Beard, team captain, was awarded a Second Team All-Star for her relentless play during the regular season. Robertson said they both played key roles in the championship drive.
This is Robertson’s third season as assistant coach with the Wildcats. She said her main reason for involvement was her admiration for the program itself.
“I can’t say enough positive things for what the program has taught me, not just in terms of hockey but life skills as well.”
Her experience with the team is not limited to her time behind the bench. Robertson was a playing member of the Wildcats from 2010 to 2014. She went on to play collegiate hockey with Augsburg University in Minneapolis, at the Division III level. Robertson feels her background in university hockey has helped her as a coach as she can relate to the players. Many of them have further aspirations in the game as she had.
The season is far from over for the Westman Wildcats. Their next challenge will be the winner of the Saskatchewan Female U18 League. At the time of speaking, they were not certain if they will play the Regina Rebels or the Notre Dame Hounds. Regardless, the series will take place April 22, 23, 24 at the ‘Cats home rink in Hartney. The winner of this will go on to the Esso Cup in Alberta.
At any rate, the Manitoba championship will be remembered.
“This win was huge for the Wildcat program and for female hockey in the region,” the assistant coach stated. “Throughout the season, I have seen lots of young female and male hockey players in the stands taking in the games. It’s great to see the female game gaining more and more fans.”
by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff