The Cannex Cochrane Generals have secured their spot for the 2025 HJHL Playoffs, following their recent win against the High River Flyers on Jan. 25.
Gen’s head coach Derek Bell outlined that he’s very proud of the team and believes that they’ve stayed true to their commitment for being the hardest working team on the ice.
“I think the guys have done an exceptional job with that,” he said. “There’s always ups and downs in every game for sure, but overall, for the last 10 to 15 [games], we’ve being getting ourselves prepared for the playoffs.”
Their latest win against the High River Flyers saw the Gens walk away with a 6-3 win at the SLS Centre. Looking back, Bell said that it was a high-paced and exciting match.
“I’m really proud of the group,” he said. “They started burying shots, which is something you got to do when you’ve got your opportunities in front of you. The guys did a great job of putting the puck behind the goalie.”
Looking to the playoffs, Bell said the group plans to make sure that they keep their title of being the hardest tram to play against.
“When it comes to hard working, hard checking, and goalscoring, I think the overall proper terminology for me would be to be the hardest working team on and off the ice, and winning the special battles,” he said.
He adds that the Gens plan to take this playoff run one game at a time.
“You take it game-by-game, and that’s kind of how I would address this situation,” Bell said. “We make our future, and that starts with game one, puck drop on the first period. I never want to look to the future; I always want to start with game one. Let’s win that one, and let’s just keep it rolling.”
Bell said the support from fans coming to each game is always felt throughout the bench. With so much support from the crowd when they’re at home, Bell adds that the boys always love playing in front of their hometown.
“The support from kids when we’re coming out of the bleachers, the high-fives and autographs, that means something to the guys,” Bell said. “I want the fans to know that we really do appreciate them coming out and showing that support. It’s extremely competitive and great hockey to watch.”
With their first playoff match set for Feb. 10, Bell outlines that they are ready to compete.
“I think we’ve been ready since the second half of the season,” he said. “It’s been something we talked about often on the ice, and during practices,” Bell said. “We’re ready. We’re a work-in-progress for sure, but we’re ready to compete.”
