BY Jonathan Huntington
SASKATOON – When the puck dropped on the Saskatoon Contacts regular-season home opener on October 7th, it marked a full-circle moment for the organization.
After being a stand-out forward for the club in 2000-01 (scoring 42 goals in 44 games), Ryan Keller made his regular-season home debut as the team’s new head coach.
“It has been an enjoyable experience so far being back coaching and involved with an organization that has always meant a lot to me,” said Keller, who also doubles as general manager. “My memories as a player are of a culture that prepared young men not only for the next levels of their hockey career but also taught us the qualities needed to be successful in life. Jim McIntyre and Darren Evjen were instrumental in my development, as well as in the development of so many other young hockey players who came through the program.
“I take pride in trying to provide the same experience I was fortunate to receive.”
Keller will also be able to provide lessons he learned from a very impressive list of coaches that he played for during his junior and pro career.
“Lorne Molleken, Todd Nelson and Marc Crawford would be the three coaches I took the most away from,” continued Keller. “Each of them, in their own way, built relationships with their athletes that made every player feel valued and understand they were an important part of the team. These experiences have helped shape my approach, teaching me the importance of open communication and patience.”
After losing 5-2 to the league-leading Moose Jaw Winmar Warriors on Oct. 7, the Contacts are 1-2 to start the young season.
“I’m focused on building a team that thrives on strong character, where each player understands the importance of being a good teammate,” Keller explained. “We want to come to the rink every day and push each other to get better through competitive high-paced practices. We want players who understand that team success will ultimately lead to individual success, helping each player get the most out of their hockey experience with us. The Contacts organization is well respected in the hockey world not just because of the championships won, but also because of the quality of people and players who have come through the program. I’m a proud Contacts alumnus and excited to be back representing the organization.”
The Contacts continue a five-game homestead on Thursday night against Tisdale.
