Watch above: With the Saskatoon Blades heading into the final week of the 2014-15 WHL season, Kim Thue looks at what is keeping the team motivated.
SASKATOON – A season that has consisted of fewer ups than downs is quickly winding to an end for the Saskatoon Blades. The team is into their final week of the season that will be punctuated with a home and home against the Medicine Hat Tigers on the weekend.
“We are just staying the course here,” stated Blades head coach and general manager Bob Woods Tuesday morning. “We want these guys to leave on a good note and it would be nice to get that 20th win.”
After going on a run of five straight playoff bound seasons, the Blades will now miss the post season for a second straight year. Despite that, there is still plenty to be motivated for heading into the weekends final two games.
“They are still looking for opportunities, whether it be college or minor pro. They still have lots to work for and we want them to be ready if that opportunity comes,” Woods said about his overagers Brett Stovin and Sam McKechnie.
“All our draft eligible guys it’s there last opportunity to show case what they are doing and for the 16- and 15-year-olds they are looking to put themselves on the radars,” added Woods.
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One of the few perks of missing out on the playoffs, is the team gets an extended opportunity to get their prospects involved. Five possible future Blades will be practicing with the team this week, getting a nice taste of what life in the Western Hockey League is all about.
“This week has been awesome to just have these kids come in here and just really experience what it’s like to be a Blade for a week. This is as real as it gets.”
The Blades final home game of the season happens Friday before travelling to Medicine Hat on Saturday to put 2014-15 season to bed.
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