Young talent thriving in M15 league

Tyler Lowey
Times Reporter

 

There is some up-and-coming local talent submitting strong seasons as we round into the Christmas break.
Mitchell Desserre and Benjamin Kruse have been big contributors for the 8-6-4 Rockyview Raiders minor midget AAA team this season.
“Mitch is one of our hardest workers,” said Raiders coach Carl Knudsen. “He loves to block shots and is a stay-at-home defenseman.”
Desserre serves as one of the alternate captains and has a pair of goals and four points through 16 games.
Mitch’s brother Scott is a member on the division-leading Wheatland Athletic Association midget Chiefs this season.
“Mitch is working his way back from breaking his toe from a blocked shot earlier in the year, but he has a great shot back there and is a great skater for us,” said Knudsen.
Up front is the 5-foot-8 captain Kruse.
“He has been our most reliable player and another one of our hardest workers,” said Knudsen. “He’s not gifted with the most skill, but he out-works everyone on the ice.”
A left shot, Kruse plays in any situation; penalty kill, power play, even strength and four-on-four. In 18 games, he has four goals and seven points.
The Raiders sit fourth in the South Division, one point behind the CBHA Rangers for third. Their 45 goals allowed are sixth lowest in the Alberta Minor Midget Hockey League.
The Raiders are in action again Dec. 17 when they welcome the Rangers to Chestermere Regional Community Association arena. Puck drop is slated for 3:30 p.m.