Status quo in Blind River

Fresh from three straight winning seasons in the West Division of the Northern Ontario Jr. Hockey League, the Blind River Beavers are maintaining stability at the executive, management and coaching levels.

As Robert Morningstar will return to head the executive as president, Kyle Brick will be back as coach and general manager of the Beavers as the team prepares for the 2019-2020 season.

Morningstar confirmed to Hockey News North that all systems are go in Blind River following the Beavers recent annual general meeting.

“All is great in Blind River and things are status quo.  The executive has stayed the same as last year,” Morningstar began. “I am returning as president once again and Kyle is once again general manager and head coach for the 2019-2020 season with all of his returning staff and volunteers and we are looking at improving on our 25 wins from this past year.

“Kyle and his staff have continued to produce competitive teams and strive for excellence,” Morningstar added. “And on behalf of the Blind River Beavers, I would like to thank the Town of Blind River and our many volunteers and fans or their continuing support.”

To be sure, the on-ice product in Blind River has improved in a big way in the three years that Brick and his staff — which includes the all-purpose Craig MacDonald as assistant general manager, assistant coach and director of player personnel — have been in charge.

Under Brick, MacDonald et al, the Beavers have posted records of 32-20-4, 33-19-4 and 25-24-7 and won four playoff series during the three seasons.

Brick joined the Beavers in 2016 after being a highly-regarded assistant coach with the NOJHL’s Soo Thunderbirds — and MacDonald was his first hire in Blind River.

Meanwhile, as Morningstar returns as team president, the rest of the Blind River executive will also remain intact with Kourtney Nyman, Kevin Fitzpatrick, Emily Daybutch, Melanie Fitzpatrick and Linda Lamorie on board.

PHOTO: Assistant coach Craig MacDonald (left) and Kyle Brick, behind the bench of the Blind River Beavers.