When 18 year old goaltender Erik Powers made his way from British Columbia to King City to attend Rebellion camp, he did not by any means have a spot locked up on the team. But with his hard work, dedication and stellar numbers in preseason action, Mark Joslin and the rest of the coaching staff knew they found someone special, and the 6’4” netminder earned a spot. He then put up 2 shutouts in his first 2 OJHL starts.
When I was getting to know Erik, I took the opportunity to ask him some questions regarding his transition to Ontario and his back-to-back shutouts:
You earned your way onto this team with a stellar preseason. In a new city with brand new teammates it seems your adjustment on ice has been excellent, how has it been off ice?
Off the ice it has been a great experience getting to know my new teammates and settling into the town. I feel like I have already gotten to know some new awesome people in this community which makes it easier to adjust.
What was the first thought that went through your head when you heard the final buzzer against Aurora?
When I heard the final buzzer go off against Aurora, I felt a rush of relief and excitement. I felt like I had done my job and helped the team win. There was a moment where I took it all in. Feeling grateful for my teammates and coaching staff.
What was the team reaction like in the room after your first shutout?
In the room after my first shutout, the reaction was incredible. Everyone was hyped. There was a lot of high-fiving and celebrating. It felt like a big team achievement.
What are your thoughts of Mark Joslin and the rest of the coaching staff?
I think Mark Joslin and the coaching staff are fantastic! They really know how to motivate us and help us improve. Plus they create a positive vibe where we can ask questions and learn from your mistakes. It shows they care about our growth as a player and as a team.
When I asked Head Coach and General Manager Mark Joslin how he would describe Erik Powers, Joslin explained how Erik is the nicest, most humble kid, who is always first to the rink, always first to help, and consistently has a smile on his face. Coach Joslin also added the following:
Erik Powers is a great pick up for us here in King-a very committed and driven young man who has a lot of upside and is truly the ultimate teammate and rookie!
Catch Powers and the rest of the Rebellion back in action this Tuesday at the Nobleton Community Centre.
Article by Hayden Burnell
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