In the span of a year, the Listowel Cyclones became known as one of the toughest teams to score against in all of Junior B. Head coach Jason Brooks was recognized for being a key figure in that identity by being named the GOJHL Midwest coach of the year Monday night in Kitchener. Brooks was in his first year behind the bench since leaving his coaching job in the OHL.
Brooks came into the season with a young team, but what he called a hungry team. He adopted a defensive system for the season and credits his roster for sticking to it.
"It makes it fun for a coach when you have a group of guys who buy in to your vision." Brooks said after receiving the title at the league's annual awards ceremony.
Not one to take much credit, Brooks was quick to pass on the praise to the rest of the organization. Saying the over 20 players and the people behind the scenes are what makes the award possible.
"These are the guys who work hard and do the stuff that doesn't get seen." He said. "And the players, this award is as much theirs as it is mine."
After sneaking in to the playoffs last season, the Cyclones improved to win over 20 games and finish well clear of the bottom of the pack with a 7th place finish. The defensive play had a major turnaround, allowing the fourth fewest goals and being one of only 10 teams in all of Junior B to allow less than 150 goals.
Brooks had taken a year off from junior hockey last season, coaching a minor hockey team in Listowel after leaving the Niagara Icedogs. The hometown-er had the itch to be back behind the bench and enjoyed his year with the Cyclones.
"It was nice to get back to junior and help players to move on to the next level." Brooks says, adding it is even more fun when it is in his own backyard. "I was able also be close to my children and be at the rink to watch them."
While this season is far from over, Brooks hopes to be back behind the bench next year, no matter how this season comes to a close.
"I've enjoyed my time this year, if the team wants me back, I'll be back."
Listowel Cyclones Head Coach Jason Brooks(right) accepts his award of Coach of the Year for the GOJHL Midwest.
