by KELLY FRIESEN
Journal editor
After 10 seasons with the SJHL club, Dean Brockman is bidding farewell to the Humboldt Broncos. He accepted an assistant coach position with the Saskatoon Blades.
"This is obviously a great opportunity for me and one that I have been seeking for a while," said Brockman. "The Saskatoon Blades are a team that I watched growing up, going way back to the days of Jackie McLeod It has taken me a little longer than most, but I'm certainly very grateful for the opportunity and I'm really looking forward to it."
Brockman leaves the Broncos with mixed emotions. It wasn't an easy decision for him leave Humboldt after thoroughly enjoying his tenure with the team and stay in the community.
"It's pretty emotional for me and my family," said Brockman. "(The Broncos) They've done a great job of bringing the Broncos alive and supporting their team. Now people are going to have to rally and get on board and support the team even more. I'm proud that I was a Bronco and I wish them and the surrounding area the best of luck."
Brockman takes over from Curtis Leschyshyn, who stepped down at the end of the season to coach his son's midget hockey club, the Saskatoon Blazers. Several esteemed hockey minds were interviewed for the opening, including former Prince Albert Raiders head coach Steve Young.
The St. Benedict native will work under GM-head coach Bob Woods, who was named hired by the Blades in early June. Woods took over from head coach Dave Struch and GM Lorne Molleken after they were both let go.
"It's really kind of surreal right now, but when you talk to Bob it's like talking to your brother or your best friend," said Brockman. "I felt so comfortable being around him. And I look at all of his accomplishments and am humbled to have a chance to work with him."
Brockman's exceptional hockey resume is what made him the best candidate in Woods' eyes. He won the SJHL Coach of the Year award in 2013, 2009, 2008 and 2007. In addition, he led the Broncos to three league championships and two RBC titles.
"Dean is a winner, plain and simple," said Woods. "He brings experience, leadership and a winning mentality to this organization. He's proven himself at the SJHL level and with Hockey Canada and we're very excited to welcome him to the Saskatoon Blades."
Brockman credits his success at the junior level to how he's excelled at building relationships and knowing how to read players.
"My relationship with the players, just keeping those lines of communication," said Brockman. "Just knowing when to push the right buttons at the right times and just knowing who they are not only as a player, but as a person."
The Broncos' search for a new head coach and general manager is underway.
