The MJHL's all-time winningest coach has decided to continue his run with the Portage Terriers, without much deliberation.
Blake Spiller and his staff are now set for Blake's twentieth season as the team's bench boss and General Manager, and twenty-fifth season total.
Spiller says it's nice to have the deal done and that he has high hopes for the team's return this fall.
"We always sign a three-year deal, and we're looking forward to keeping things going here. For the most part, things have gone well, and we're appreciative that the executive wants us to return. We'll try to make sure that we keep putting a good product on the ice as well, as in the community."
Spiller notes that he never anticipated going this far when he first took over as head coach.
"Paul (Harland) and I, when we started, we hoped to have some success early so we could continue on in the organization, so it's always been a year-to-year thing, and it's gone well so far."
He comments that the goal doesn't change, but the process might be different from one season to the next.
"I think you have different expectations every year with the returning group that you have coming in and the uncertainty of the players you've recruited or made deals for. At the start of the year, everybody has a chance, so we always try to make sure that we're set up to start the year. We've always felt it was important to get off to a good start, and then tweak things as you go along, whether it's your systems or your lineup. I don't think that's changed. Obviously, at the end of the year, you hope you're the last team standing, but a lot of times, those things, the stars have got to align for that to happen. So, we're looking forward to getting started this year, and our ultimate goal will be to be that last team standing for sure."
Spiller, and eight-time league champion as coach, also reflects on how the hockey world has changed since he started recruiting and managing back in 2006.
"There's so much uncertainty with the NCAA ruling that the Western League guys can go that route after they played, and there are so many opportunities for kids. So many kids play in so many leagues, and advisors that you have to deal with. So, it's definitely changed over the last 20-some years, some things are better for the players, and some things make you wonder. I think a lot of that stuff is up in the air as to how things are going to move going forward. We try to adjust and adapt, and make sure we're staying with how things go. So, it's definitely more challenging to recruit because of the more options for players, but we think we're a good place to play, so hopefully we can continue having some success in bringing in some quality guys."