This is a transition year for popular Westside Warriors forward Trevor Bailey, which is a bit of an odd stance for someone in their last year of junior hockey.
Bailey, a 20-year-old from Winfield, B.C., speaks of transitions on and off the ice this season. First, is the move from important forward to team leader. Bailey, along with defenceman Joel Woznikoski, are the team’s co-captains this season. Bailey wears the `C’ when the Warriors are in their dark jerseys.
“It’s definitely an honour,” said Bailey. “I had the privilege of working with (former captain) Ron Kelly the last couple of years. We learned a lot from him. I want to jut try to carry on what he started, teach the young guys how it’s done and hopefully they can take over when we’re gone.”
Ah, transitions. Kelly to Bailey to the young guys. There’s also a transition of sorts on the ice for Bailey, as new coach Darren Yopyk brings new ideas and a new focus, which includes more offence-minded play.
“It’s a different point of view from last year (under coach Mark Howell),” said Bailey. “Last year it was all defence oriented. It’s a big change. Us veterans, we’re like first years in that sense – we have to learn and adapt and figure out what coach is all about.”
Bailey has 15 points through nine games this season. He’s had 59 (2008-09), 60 (2007-08) and 31 (2006-07) points in the three seasons of his BCHL career, so he’s on pace to top those numbers, which he's hoping will help land him a lucrative NCAA scholarship.
“Maybe fourth year’s a charm,” said Bailey. “I just have to work hard and hopefully someone will pick me up.”
The hard work seems to come naturally. Bailey, listed at 5’8″, 170 pounds, is a crowd favourite because he’s a dynamo on the ice. He’s also a versatile player, getting time on the top line along with power plays and penalty killing. In this most recent off-season, Bailey (who’s taking some post-secondary classes this year) moved back to Winfield and worked in some hockey schools. Still, he has perspective on life as a 20-year-old, and it shows in the way his energy and style make him look like he’s really enjoying himself on the ice.
“We’re still young – we want to be kids and still have fun.”
Bailey and the Warriors are next in action on Friday night when they host the Prince George Spruce Kings at Royal LePage Place.
