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Featured in the paper every Thursday, Bracknell Bees head coach Doug Sheppard gives his latest views on Bracknell’s season on and off the ice in an exclusive column.
HAVING started the year so well, I did not expect our poor performance against local rivals, Basingstoke Bison, last weekend.
I still cannot put my finger on why that happened. But a character win on Sunday against London Raiders showed that the team had put that defeat behind them and that they had moved on.
INTERVIEW: Sheppard unhappy with Basingstoke DJ
In ice hockey, there are numerous opportunities to score. This keeps the fans on the edge of their seats. On Saturday we hit two quick goals to bring the scores level at the beginning of the second period. On Sunday, we were comfortably in control when Raiders scored two quick goals against us and the third period became tense.
Our Captain, Joe Baird, is injured and Ben Paynter came in to defence. It’s great to see a young player rise to the challenge.
Unusually, we have two home games coming up. First we entertain League leaders, Peterborough, and then on Sunday welcome Bison. I am sure the Hive will be full for what promises to be a great weekend of hockey.
Of course, as a coach, my main priority is how the team performs on the ice. But I am also pleased to see how the Hive has become a sporting venue attracting fans of all ages.
When I visit local schools, I can explain how important it is for opposing teams and fans to show each other respect. I know that this is what families can expect to experience when they come to watch us play.
I hope you cope with all the excitement this weekend. Don’t forget that in a few weeks’ time we have the semi-finals of the Cup. Can you imagine how exciting that’s going to be?
