There is always pressure when you play for your hometown team. When you’re the last line of defence, that pressure can be magnified. It takes a lot of focus, concentration and mental toughness to get through it. Dauphin’s Connor Shaw saw it all during his rookie season with the Kings and is hungry to take on that pressure again.
Last season was an up and down season for Shaw. After starting the season with the Kings, he was sent to Junior B, as the Kings decided to go with seventeen year old Troy Martyniuk and nineteen year old Riley Corbin between the pipes. In late November, the Kings called Shaw up again after Corbin had been traded and Shaw finished the season with the Kings. Shaw would end up going 9-6 for the Pride with a 2.99 GAA and a .907 Save Percentage.
“Good things happen to good people.” says Kings Assistant Coach Marc Berry. “Things probably didn’t go the way Shawsy wanted them to at the start of last season. He didn’t pout, he didn’t burn his bridges, he continued to work hard and he stuck with it. It ended up translating into a pretty successful rookie season in the MJHL. Shawsy has decent size and is a naturally athletic person. He’s been working hard this off season with our Goalie Coach Joe Caligiuri and in the gym. He takes nothing for granted as a returning player. Above everything, Shawsy is a good person.”
The opportunity to be a Kings wasn’t lost on Shaw.
“Personally, wearing the Kings jersey means not only are you looking to further your development in hockey, but you are committing to a team that is always looking to be successful.” says Shaw “It’s a true honour to become a part of the history of the Kings.”
“The Dauphin Kings have had a great record over the years and it’s something you want to be a part of. The team is first class and with it being in my hometown, it only makes it that much more special.”
Making it even more special is the fact that Connor and his dad Ken have been billets for the Kings for the last seven seasons. When asked who is favourite King growing up was, it made sense that Shaw picked former billet family member for three years, Shamus Graham.
“Shamus was my favourite not only because our family billeted him, but also because of his character and work ethic.” said Shaw. “Shamus was devoted to making the Dauphin Kings a better team.”
In the off season Shaw can be found working at the Gilbert Plains Golf and Country Club or hitting the links himself. He also enjoys working out and spending time with friends and family. Red is Shaw’s favourite colour and 33 is his number of choice. He counts “Happy Gilmour” as his favourite movie. As for hockey Henrik Lundquist is he’s a proud fan of the Blue and White of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Steak or Chicken – Steak
Coke or Pepsi – Coke
Golf or Lake – Golf
iPhone or Blackberry – iPhone
TSN or Sportsnet – TSN
Country or Rock – Country
Magazine or Book – Book
Call or Text – Text
Burger or Hot Dog – Burger
You can catch Connor Shaw and the rest of the Kings by buying your season ticket today! Tickets are available at North of 51/Rogers Wireless. Business hours are Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm. Take advantage of any one of our great packages! Early Bird prices are in effect until June 26th!