Golden Rockets Captain Brett DeFrias has been working hard this year to not only be a leader on the ice, but off the ice as well.
Earlier in the year DeFrias stated he hoped Rockets fans would be patient with the team after a slow start. Since that time the team has turned things around and now sits alone in third place in the Eddie Mountain Division of the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League.
“Lately we have been doing really well. We are 6-2-0-1 over our past nine games. We had a rough start but we have learned to battle back and get the victories we needed,” he said.
DeFrias felt the change over the past nine games has happened because of the team coming together.
“We realized we have to be patient. Not to be so antsy with the puck. We have to be careful not to have give-aways and have fun mostly,” he said.
DeFrias added that having solid goaltending during this stretch has also helped the team.
“Having Danny Todosychuk helped us. He is back up in Vernon and that is good for him. We have (James) Leonard and he is a great goalie. It is a huge thing to have a goalie to help you win games as well,” he said.
DeFrias added that the team has been working hard not to have situations where they get themselves in unnecessary trouble.
“Defence is important. We have five returning guys on the point and a veteran presence is key in this league to get the young guys going.”
DeFrias also thought the forwards have been performing at a high level this year which has helped the team grab some early leads.
“We have a skilled group up front and you can’t ask more from them. They are doing their jobs. They are scoring goals,” he said.
As for goal scoring DeFrias has had a hot start to the season. Known more for his solid work in his own zone and dogged determination on the ice, DeFrias top season for goals in the KIJHL has previously been six. So far this year he has scored four goals.
“It has been the power play. Our power play is number one in the league for home games. It is being on the point and seeing the play in front of you,” he said
He added “I am so excited. This is a special group and I can’t wait to see what comes in the future for this team.”
