The Yorkton RawTec Maulers AAA Midget program is in existence so the Yorkton and surrounding Parkland region have the opportunity to experience the highest level of minor hockey in Canada, according to their board. To continue this privilege, it is absolutely essential that the foundation of coaching styles, direction, communication, and decision-making be done with excellence.
The RawTec Maulers board is happy to announce Kevin Rawlick as the official head coach and interim general manager for the 2017-2018 season.
When Rawlick spearheaded a playoff first-round series victory as the interim head coach this past season, it was the first time Yorkton midget AAA had that kind of overall on-ice success in 14 seasons. 聽
As an organization, they say they are looking for a culture shift that brings an increased focus on stakeholder management.
鈥淲e view our main stakeholder groups as our players/parents, governing bodies, community and hockey industry alliances. Our board of directors expects our coaching staff to establish a midget AAA culture that is associated with a positive and safe environment, both physically and mentally for all players at all times,鈥 said the Maulers鈥 board in a press release.
Although Rawlick will be a rookie head coach at this level, the board believes he is a great fit due to his positive approach to the sport, his experience as the team鈥檚 main assistant coach for the past four seasons and his background as a player at the midget AAA, SJHL and NCAA levels.
Rawlick stepped up as interim head coach in January of the 2016-2017 season. His positive attitude and coaching style led to a seventh place finish in the regular season.
In the first round of playoffs, the team beat the Notre Dame Hounds in a best-of-five series.
From there, the team went to semi-finals against the first-ranked Regina Pat Canadians, and were eventually knocked out of the playoffs.
Maulers鈥 goalie Jordan Schmuland told Yorkton This Week that Rawlick鈥檚 positivity and belief in every one of his players is a huge reason why they were so successful at the end of their season.