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Getting to know new North Stars assistant coach Boyd Wakelin

Aug 26, 2017 | 11:00 AM

For new Battlefords North Stars assistant coach Boyd Wakelin, accepting a position behind the bench with the team he grew up cheering for and later played with was a no brainer.

“It’s the love for the game,” the 26-year-old said. “I knew my body couldn’t handle going out and playing anymore this season, so once the opportunity came to step behind the bench here, it was a no brainer for me.”

Wakelin played for the North Stars from 2007 to 2012, suiting up for 133 games. He scored 21 goals and added 16 assists in those games and recorded five goals and seven points in 27 Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League career playoff games.

“I just feel really fortunate that I actually got the opportunity to play here,” Wakelin added. “I wasn’t really the most skilled guy. I liked to grind it out, so for someone my size to be able to crack the squad here was pretty cool.”