Over the next 12 weeks we’ll get to know the coaches from across the MJHL.
Dave Anthony asked all the coaches 12 questions and they shared their hockey history, how they got into coaching and a whole lot more.
We always get to hear their names, now let’s get to know the men behind the bench.
Ken Pearson – Neepawa Natives
DA: What’s your hockey background? Did you play?
KP: I played minor hockey in Neepawa from the age of 5-15, began coaching junior at age of 21. Worked as a regional scout for NHL Central Scouting for 8 years. Played 5 seasons beginning in 1989 with the Neepawa Natives.
DA: How did you get into coaching?
KP: During my 20-year-old season an injury started me on the road to coaching.
DA: What do you remember feeling standing on the bench as a head coach for the first time?
KP: Plenty of emotion haha
DA: What is your favorite or least favorite practice drill to run?
KP: Favorite would be any one-on-one drill.
DA: Is there a trade you’ve made or player recruitment/signing that stands out to you as being one of the best moves you’ve ever made?
KP: I think there are a few but in 2005-06 season when with the Winnipeg South Blues, traded for forward David Segal from the Melfort Mustangs he was a throwback type player and something we were really missing on our team, we won the MJHL that year.
DA: Who from your past (either playing with or being coached by) would you say had a great influence or impact on you as a coach today?
KP: Don McGillivray, he coached me when I was 20, then I was his assistant the next two seasons in Neepawa and one in Prince Albert.
DA: Which former player stands out as one of your favorites to coach or to have around the rink every day?
KP: Again, there are a few, but Kevin Clark and Brendan Cook would be at the top of list.
DA: If you could coach an NHL team, which team would it be and why?
KP: Tampa Bay, I love the city and area! Go Rays!
DA: In a post-game interview, which question do you like answering the least?
KP: What do you think you needed to do different tonight and why didn’t you do it?
DA: Why do you like coaching for the organization you do?
KP: It is the organization I grew up with and gave me my first opportunity as a coach.
DA: What do you like about the town/city you coach for?
KP: It is my hometown. I love being around family and friends I haven’t been able to see much in 25+ years as a coach/gm.
DA: Who’s a current player on your team you feel deserves more attention from fans around the league? (This will be used for a future 12 Takes story).
KP: Rylan Gudnason
