As tryouts wrap up and rosters are finalized for the 2015-2016 season, there are some new faces in the Elgin Middlesex Chiefs’ organization — both on and off the ice. The Chiefs are excited to welcome James Kennedy, the new Minor Midget Head Coach. Joining James on the bench, meanwhile, are assistant coaches Brendan Heffernan and Aaron Dartch, along with trainer Jon Sims.
“We’re really excited to have James and his staff onboard for next season,” said Randy Mclinchey, Vice President of Hockey Operations. “James has a proven track record of success, and we are lucky to have them.”
Kennedy is no stranger to the Chiefs, having spent the last eight years coaching in the archrival London Jr. Knights Organization. Kennedy has coached at every level from Minor Pee Wee AAA to Minor Midget AAA, and he was the head coach with the 2001 age group in London for the last three seasons, posting an impressive 189-21-14 record. That team won a number of tournaments, including gold at the Ontario Winter Games in 2014. They were also the first Alliance team ever to win Ontario Provincial Gold at the Pee Wee AAA level in 2014.
Kennedy says he’s ready for his first set of tryouts with the Chiefs’ organization.
“Try-outs are something we take very seriously,” the coach said. “My staff and I do our homework. We get as much information on the players trying out as possible. We watch any video that is available, and we talk to past coaches and players during try-outs. We want to do our best to ensure that the top 17-18 players are selected.
“Research is key and knowledge is power,” continued Kennedy. “In preparing for a season, we will make a list of goals. And we want the players to be prepared and have their own list as well. We have a model set up as to what we want to work on.”
The Minor Midget Chiefs coaching staff have set their goals high and expect to win the Alliance and qualify for the OHL Cup this coming season, although they know it will be a different environment than what they have faced in London where there is a larger talent pool to choose from.
Good luck in the coming season!
– Story and photos submitted by Elgin Middlesex Chiefs
