Sun Devils rookie crop quickly learning the ropes

“Rookies have been a big part of the team,” said Loran. “We’re definitely high in numbers in our rookies, and they’ve all stepped up. We’ve had a couple of injuries, and we’ve counted on them to pull their weight for sure.”

Attacker Noah Weimer is one of those players seeing a boost in minutes, and echoed a lot of what Loran stated.

“When people get injured it’s really up to us to step up and fill the roles, because that’s what we’re here to do.”

Missing a few big guns in their lineup on Saturday, the Sun Devils were able to snap their losing skid with a big 7-6 win over the Calgary Wranglers.

Rookies once again chipped in, with Weimer scoring the game winner with less than five minutes remaining.

Ben Williams, a rookie defender on the Sun Devils, said in moving to Junior B you can immediately notice the change in level of competition.

“It’s definitely harder than what I was used to,” said Williams. “But, I figure I’m adjusting quite well and it’s been pretty good.”

On Sunday, Medicine Hat was back at the Kinplex to face the streaking Olds Mavericks.

Olds took a 7-2 lead in the first period and never looked back, as they rolled to a 16-7 victory.

Carter Schlenker, Tanner Simpson, Aidan McLean, and Keenan Wilson all had one goal and one assist in the loss.

The rookie experience isn’t just limited to the players however, as Loran is in his first season behind the bench for the Sun Devils as well.

Although the team is still trying to get back to .500 in the standings, Loran said the job has been great so far.

“I’ve enjoyed it, the group is fantastic,” he said. “They’re all very supportive of one another and that includes parents, we’re definitely a strong, united front going forward.”

A weekend set on the road up ahead for the Sun Devils, as they visit the High River Heat on Saturday and the Strathmore Venom on Sunday.

by Scott Roblin

Sun Devils rookie crop quickly learning the ropes

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