Crnkovic made steps towards elite status

Justin Seward
Times Reporter

 

Wheatland Braves forward Kyle ‘Cranky” Crnkovic scorched through the peewee double A season with a 156 points (96 goals and 60 assists) but the 13-year-old is a classy individual who wanted to make his line mates around him better.
He was not a selfish player by any means but took advantage of his opportunities when he could.
“My teammates really helped me out, they’re a really big part of my success and my coaches also help it all happen,” said Crnkovic. “You don’t go very far if it’s individual, it has to be a team effort and one guy can’t carry a team.”
His coach, Keith Klemmensen, made him understand how hard work will pay off in the long run.
“It’s been good, Keith’s really taught me how to work hard and I think that’s really helped me,” said Crnkovic. “You just got to keep trying and eventually it will happen. I thought my line (Max Kathol, Bryce Benfield), worked together and tried our best.
“They just sometimes when they’re on the wall with a d-man on them and (they) found a way to get that puck out. In the offensive zone, they were really good at cycling.”
What may have made him the most effective all-around player was his approach each game on and off the ice
“I try to do everything fast so when a game comes that’s what is going to happen,” said Crnkovic.
The leadership qualities that Cranky possessed were outstanding the whole season and that is why his team looked up to him.
“I tried to be a leader for the younger guys. I just tried to be that guy that does everything hard,” said Crnkovic.
Klemmensen felt privileged to have a player as dedicated as Crnkovic was this past season.
“Cranky has a hockey ability that is rare, yet he is open to instruction and ideas. He is totally a team guy and he is modest,” said Klemmensen. “He earns respect as a hockey player and also as a grounded young man. Anyone who thinks they are good should act like him.”
Cranky hopes to make the bantam triple A Raiders in Okotoks next season; if that doesn’t happen he plans to play with the Wheatland Warriors.