Entering a big weekend set against the Waywayseecappo Wolverines, the Dauphin Kings are honourable mentions in this week’s Canadian Junior Hockey League Top 20 Rankings, after they were ranked 14th last season.
The team opened last weekend with a 6-4 loss; however, they rebounded very nicely just 24 hours later in a 5-1 win against the Virden Oil Capitals and a big reason why is Keaton Woolsey. The 18-year-old who is a recent high school graduate made 32 saves for his second career MJHL win and second in three tries.
Originally from Idaho, Woolsey has embraced his backup role this season and when his number has been called, has played excellent. He also has a 47 save performance against the OCN Blizzard. That came on October 10 when he helped Dauphin earn a 7-3 win against the OCN Blizzard. It was Keaton’s first career win in the MJHL and it completed a weekend sweep for the team.
“That was a really fun game and it was great that we won the game,” said Woolsey. “I didn’t play my best, I think I gave up a couple of goals that I should have. With that said, we got the job done and that’s the main thing at the end of the day.”
Last Saturday, Woolsey was a man on a mission and he was nearly unbeatable making his 32 saves. He may not have thought his performance was fantastic in his first win, but there was no denying he played tremendous in his second win.
“That was a comeback for me, I was pretty happy with how I played,” offered Woolsey. “I also couldn’t have done it by myself. We scored five goals, it was a great team effort and our defence blocked some key shots as well.”
When asked what the atmosphere is like around the dressing room, Woolsey said it’s great. Everyone is having a lot of fun right now but he knows the job is far from complete. Dauphin has won nine of their 12 games so far.
Of goalies that have played at least three games this year, Keaton’s .935 save percentage is the third-best in the league, only behind Dawson Green of the Winnipeg Blues and Simon Harkness of the Steinbach Pistons. Carson Cherepak, Keaton’s goaltending partner, is just behind at .929.
Off the ice, Keaton enjoys playing video games as it’s one of the best ways to stay in touch with my friends back home. He also enjoys fishing, hiking and just being outside. He’s also looking forward to heading to the Northgate Trails and Riding Mountain National Park as he plays his rookie season in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League.