Rockies’ vet sees a bright future

You never know what you will learn during the hockey season and this season Columbia Valley Rockies’ veteran Darrell Boldon has learned many new things.

One thing he hasn’t particularly enjoyed learning is how to take a loss. “Right now we are struggling but I am developing as a person. I am learning how to lose gracefully,” he said.

Darrell is in the middle of his second season with the Rockies and has been one of the most consistent players for the team this year.

After injuring his shoulder last year he has enjoyed the fact that he has been back on the ice for the Rockies.

Originally from Calgary, Darrell has been adjusting to his new role as a leader on the team as a difficult season has progressed.

“At first it was a lot to deal with but now I am beginning to like it,” he said, and added, “We just have to keep playing the way we have been and strive to be better.”

Even though the Rockies have had troubles on the ice it has not entered into the relationship of the players.

“They are an awesome group of guys. The skill level has really picked up since camp,” Darrell stressed.

He also had nothing but positive things to say about Rob Rice and the coaching staff.

“Rob is an awesome coach. He is probably one of the best I have ever had.

“He has taught me how to play a little defence. I am better at coverage in the defensive zone now. I wasn’t lacking in coverage last year but it did need some improvement. More importantly he has helped me become a better leader on the team now.”

The biggest surprise for Darrell has been just how slow a start they have had and how many guys have gotten sick.

The team seems to be constantly fighting through illness but no one has given up according to the multi-talented forward.

Road trips are particularly tough on a team that has been as ill as the Rockies this year.

“I think we have gotten most of the big ones out of the way. Spokane is always a big one. Grand Forks is a tough one, as is going into Nelson. My favourite place to travel to is Fernie because of how many fans come out for the games. It is fun playing in front of that kind of crowd.”

Darrell admits to a tough start this year but he does not see the season as being written off just yet.

“I think we will start getting things together and begin jelling as a team. That is the goal. To start winning and then come together as a team. We need to be a big family.”

He also had a message for the fans who have been coming out to support the team.

“Thank you so much for coming out. You have no idea how much we appreciate it and hope that we can stop letting you down soon. They really are the best to keep coming out.”

As for his future, Darrell said, “I love hockey and have played it my whole life. It is my passion. I would like to play it the rest of my life. I am thinking about higher levels next year but will have to wait and see what happens.”

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