Paul Dyck of the Steinbach Pistons and Justin Falk of the Winkler Flyers are Winnipeg Jets for the week.
The pair of MJHL coaches/general managers have taken part in Winnipeg Jets Development Camp as guest coaches, soaking in the experience as former professional hockey players who were both drafted into the National Hockey League (NHL).
Both Falk and Dyck shared their thoughts on the abundance of current and former MJHL players who are taking part in NHL Development Camps.
“A lot of great opportunity for players if they put their work boots on and continue to develop. It’s what were trying to do in Winkler like many teams in our league, provide great opportunities for these players to develop, get the ice time, exposure, and the learning opportunities to grow and develop their game that if they buy in it will lead them to future opportunities down the road, and these players are doing just that,” said Winkler Flyers Head Coach & General Manager, Justin Falk.
“It’s amazing. It’s a strong message to the players in our province and ones that are aspiring to come play in the MJHL that it’s a great development path. Everybody’s journey is different, maybe the timing is different of it. You might not be at an NHL Development Camp as an 18-year-old but 19, 20, 21, 22, the possibilities are there. I think the template is right here in front of us in our league. You’ve seen it with Zach Whitecloud and Cole Smith playing in the National Hockey League, it seems we’re creating more and more opportunities but every player is looking for development and for opportunities at the next level and they’re taking place here so it’s encouraging,” explained Steinbach Pistons Head Coach & General Manager, Paul Dyck.
As of Thursday, July 7, there have been 17 current and former MJHL players who have taken part in NHL Development Camps.
