LETHBRIDGE – Looking to make a bold statement in his second year at the helm, Lethbridge Hurricanes head coach Drake Berehowsky had his message written right on the team’s dressing room door.
In bright white letters, the message is clear: if you are not prepared to put the team first, turn around.
“This team is the first thing you’ve got to think about,” said Berehowsky, as he attempts to re-group after the worst season in team history.
The Hurricanes won just 12 games last season, finishing last in both the Western Hockey League and Canadian Hockey League. Just as concerning was the exodus of players, as at least six team members demanded trades or quit. Two more players made similar demands this season, although forward Reid Duke loosened his stance and returned to the fold.
So now the club is focused on a team-first mentality, making sure everyone in the room is proud to wear the Hurricanes logo.
“I think we’ve weeded out the guys, the cancers on the team who were bringing us down with negativity and selfishness,” said veteran forward Tyler Wong. “So that’s what we needed, we needed guys that wanted to be here, wanted to fight for each other.”
Despite winning just two of six games in the pre-season, Berehowsky says there is a notable attitude adjustment around the club.
“The atmosphere is great in the room,” raved Berehowsky. “I think guys are happy to be here, guys want to contribute in any way possible and that’s going to keep us moving forward.”
The man pegged to lead the charge is Jamal Watson, who was named the 24th captain in team history. But even then leadership is a team-wide effort, with six different players tabbed as alternate captains.
“We’re all going to be leaders on this team,” said Watson .”I don’t expect to change the way I play or be treated any differently. I’m just one of the guys in the room, just try to lead the way a little more.”
The Hurricanes hope their long road back to respectability begins as they open their season at home against Medicine Hat on September 19.
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