🏒 Exciting times ahead for the Mountainview Colts! New head coach Ron Doig has big plans for the 2024-25 season. Can’t wait to see the team in action! 💪🔥 #Hockey #Olds #Alberta
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A New Era for the Mountainview Colts: Coach Ron Doig Sets High Expectations for the 2024-25 Season
As the Mountainview Colts gear up for the 2024-25 Heritage Junior B Hockey League season, there's a new face at the helm with big plans for the team's future. Ron Doig, a seasoned hockey coach with deep roots in the sport, is stepping into the role of head coach, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a clear vision for success.
A Fresh Start for the Colts
Ron Doig, originally from Hanna and now a resident of Olds, is no stranger to the hockey scene. His involvement in the sport spans decades, from his days as a player to his extensive coaching career. This season marks his first time coaching in the Heritage Junior B Hockey League, and he’s taking over from Dan Visser, who has been a significant part of the Colts' journey since 2015.
Doig is optimistic about the upcoming season, stating in a recent interview, "We’ve had conversations with our returning players about our goals, and we're aiming to be in the north division final this season. The ultimate objective is to win that and make it to the league final. Our first step is to secure a win in a playoff round and then move forward from there."
A Rich Hockey Background
Doig's background in hockey is as extensive as it is impressive. He has played junior A, junior B, and senior hockey across Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan. His transition from player to coach has been seamless, with years of experience guiding teams at various levels.
“I’ve been coaching for a long time,” Doig shared. “I’ve worked with AA bantams and AA midgets in the Olds minor hockey program for years. I also spent a couple of years in Red Deer with the bantam AAA program, and I’ve coached senior AA hockey.”
Doig's experience isn't limited to coaching; he has also scouted talent at the junior A level for teams in Canmore and Sherwood Park. This extensive background has allowed him to build strong relationships within the hockey community, including connections with many of the current Colts players through his work with local midget and bantam teams.
Building a Strong Foundation
One of Doig's key focuses as he takes on the role of head coach is establishing a solid foundation for the Colts. He believes in a disciplined, defense-first approach to the game, which he plans to instill in his players.
“I think my base is being defensively sound,” he explained. “I’m really big on teaching and coaching good habits, and that’s the approach we’re going to take. We had a meeting with the players last month, and I told them that I don’t like winning games with high scores like 8-6. I’d rather see us win 4-1 or 4-2. That’s the style of play we’re aiming for.”
New Faces on the Coaching Staff
Doig isn’t the only new addition to the Colts' coaching staff this season. He'll be joined by three assistant coaches, including Mike Hein and his own sons, Ryan and Regan. This trio of new assistants brings additional expertise and enthusiasm to the team, complementing Doig's vision for the Colts.
With the coaching staff in place, the team is preparing for an intensive pre-season. The Colts' conditioning camp is set to run from August 13 to 19, followed by a training and try-out camp from August 23 to 25. Doig is hopeful for a strong turnout at these sessions, which will help the coaching staff assess the talent pool and make decisions about the team roster.
“Hopefully, we get a lot of numbers in for our conditioning camp, and that translates into a good turnout for our training camp,” Doig said. “We want to have plenty of guys to sort through and find the best fit for our team.”
Looking Ahead to the Season
The Colts' journey under Doig’s leadership will officially begin with their first exhibition game against the High River Flyers on September 6 at the Didsbury Memorial Complex. This will be followed by another pre-season match against the Airdrie Techmation Thunder on September 14, also at the DMC.
The regular season kicks off on September 20, with the Colts facing the Wheatland Kings at the DMC. The following day, they’ll hit the road for an away game against the Rocky Mountain House Rams.
As the season approaches, anticipation is building among fans and players alike. With Doig’s strategic mindset, a strong coaching team, and a roster of determined players, the Mountainview Colts are poised to make a significant impact in the Heritage Junior B Hockey League this year.
The Road to Success
Success in hockey, as in any sport, is built on a combination of skill, strategy, and teamwork. Ron Doig understands this well and is committed to fostering an environment where these elements can thrive. His focus on defense, discipline, and developing good habits on the ice will be crucial as the Colts navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
But beyond the X’s and O’s, Doig brings something more profound to the table: a passion for the game and a genuine desire to see his players succeed. Whether it’s through a carefully executed play or a hard-fought win, Doig’s leadership will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the Colts and their quest for glory this season.
As the puck drops on the 2024-25 season, all eyes will be on the Mountainview Colts and their new head coach. The journey ahead is filled with potential, and with Doig at the helm, the Colts are ready to embrace the challenge and strive for greatness in the Heritage Junior B Hockey League.