With pre-season just 2 weeks away, the first set of games are on the horizon. Jason Hewitt has stepped into the role of player/coach and has been working hard behind the scenes getting his Steeldogs roster ready and putting in the time on the ice in getting the players back to competitive habits.
We caught up with Hewy and spoke about a few points in the lead up to the games vs Solway Sharks and Hull Seahawks Ice Hockey Club Official
Good to be back to business?
‘It’s good to get back to training for us all. The boys have been engaged so far and you can tell they have the hunger for the season ahead. As the guys have been coming back they look good and are working on their fitness.
For me and coming back to coaching, it’s getting back into the swing of things. I did it for a while and it’s nice to put your own stamp on things. The team have responded so far and everyone seems happy, so we can’t wait to get down to work. I have a good support system from the senior players such as Morgs and Bizz. I am really settled here, I’ve played here a few years now and it’s great to be part of a good, honest group – we are in a good place.’
What do you want to get out of the pre-season?
‘Pre-season is about taking the time to work hard and develop play for the season ahead. It’s a bit like a measuring stick, we want to see where we are at, where they are at. We want to develop the small habits that will help us to win. It’s a chance to hit the ground running.
We have had a little bit of contact training, stopping on pucks and working on timing. Once we get into the games with Solway and Hull, it’s more of a chance to keep working on key points. We have only a few changes to the roster this season so we know each other well and we are ready to go. With Jono coming in and the fact we retained Bizz and Vlads, we know we have a chance every night – but we are a blue collar team and we will work hard. Some teams have loaded up over the summer but that’s nothing to be scared of, we will have to turn up every night ready to play. I’m happy with where we are at.’
There will be more to come from Hewy in the coming days.
You can be there to support your Bradfield Brewery Sheffield Steeldogs as they take on Solway Sharks and Hull Seahawks. Tickets are available via our website: steeldogs.co.uk
First up: Solway Sharks
Sunday 10th September
Face Off 7:15pm
Next game: Hull Seahawks
Thursday 14th September
Face Off 7:30pm
Tickets £10/£5