Mackenzie Frontier Tourist Association | La Crete Lumber Barons Hockey Team
Sitting first in the Northern Express North/South division, and first in the North West Junior Hockey League (NWJHL), the La Crete Lumber Barons hockey team started the season out strong after winning the 2023-24 NWJHL Championship last year.
“We’re currently sitting second place in the Canada Junior B rankings, which is incredible,” said Head Coach Dion Knelsen. “This season feels like another strong step forward, and I think we have what it takes to win again.”
Creating and fostering a strong team requires many elements, but above all, it depends on having players who are exceptional teammates, dedicated workers and honest individuals—qualities Knelsen believes his players exemplify.
“We have a solid group of guys. Our goal is to maintain good habits, work on things as they come up and stay dialed in and focused,” said Knelsen.
With only two seasons under their belt, the La Crete Lumber Barons started as rookies, but this season, many of the players who helped win the championship returned, allowing Knelsen to change his approach to coaching.
“The first year, we had to teach everything to everyone, but this year a lot of the guys came back, so we are able to pick up where we left off,” said Knelsen. “Our biggest strengths are the team’s general hockey skills and our offensive zone.”
Born and raised in High Level, Knelsen has played in various leagues throughout his lifetime, including minor hockey, midget AAA, Junior A, four years with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and 12 years professionally in Norway, Sweden and Switzerland.
Coaching this talented team has given Knelsen the opportunity to experience a new side to hockey and it is one that he enjoys every second of.
“I love the emotion in the games and the challenge that comes with it all. I’m learning to relax more, manage my expectations and trust the habits we’ve created in practices,” said Knelsen.
Being involved in a tight knit community is important, and when it comes to forming a well-run operation, the La Crete Lumber Barons are lucky to have the support of those around them.
“From the Board to the volunteers, staff and the players, this is such a high-quality organization,” said Knelsen. “It’s fun and unique, and I feel like it’s deserved success for everyone involved. Now it’s up to us to keep it up and pursue the championship again.”
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Photography by Neufie Digital
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