Marek Babic has been named the new head coach and general manager for the Cold Lake Jr. A Wings.
The team announced last week that Babic will be taking over the reins after they decided to part ways with former coach and GM Johnathan Aitken.
Babic brings with him a well-rounded resume, including a long history of playing and leading teams at different levels of hockey.
“I’ve been coaching since I retired in 2008. I’ve been doing (it) for about 10 years. I’ve coached almost every single level... from novice right up until Jr. B, and now Jr. A,” he expressed, adding he’s been teaching skills development for about 27 years.
After hearing about the opportunity through a friend, Babic did some research about the opening.
“I think the Jr. ranks, especially the Jr. A ranks, a lot of these players are trying to get to the next level, and seeing these types of details that I think I can provide... It’s another level of hockey, it’s rougher, and there’s fighting involved... I think it’s a perfect fit,” Babic detailed.
While he noted the Wings’ record isn’t the best, Babic has his sights set on improving the group as a whole.
“I think a lot of teams look at our record and they might underestimate us... We’re going to make some changes, probably some players moving around a bit... For the most part, we’re getting better everyday and coming together as a team, which is massive,” he said.
When they were looking at possibilities to fill the role, Derek Prue, director of international expansion for the Western Provinces Hockey Association (WPHA), said Babic was high on their list.
“He’s got a ton of experience with not only playing at the professional level, but coaching for several years at the elite level. He’s got a strong business background as well, and understands the business-side of things,” he noted, adding his positive attitude is also a good thing for players.
Babic feels his history with skills training will give the Wings an edge, and help players move onto the next level of play.
“I’m throwing a lot at the boys, and when it comes to development, we’re trying to cover all our bases as well, make sure our areas are getting better, and I’m not expecting major changes. Little-by-little, kind of baby steps, spoon feed them a little bit here and there. Basically, just at the end of the day, we’ll get better.”
Babic took over just before the last two games of 2018 for the Wings, and has spent his time getting the players ready for the Western States Hockey League Shootout Showcase in Las Vegas.
“There’s going to be a lot of schools there, and I believe 180 schools with scholarships in their hands... That’s a great carrot for the kids. You’re on a platform where you can show yourself, get those scouts to basically look at these kids... It’s an opportunity for these guys to showcase themselves, and show what they’ve got,” Babic explained.
Happening from Dec. 18 to 21, the showcase will see the Wings face-off against teams such as the Wichita Thunder, Casper Bobcats, and the Steamboat Wranglers.
