When it comes to the sport of hockey, there is an electric, undeniable energy that moves through and connects everyone involved in the culture — especially the West Geauga High School program.
At least that’s what head coach Dan Gilliam believes.
Gilliam is in his third season as head coach of West G’s hockey team, which began the week with an impressive 17-3-1 overall record, 9-0 in conference play.
Gilliam, who has previously coached at both Mayfield and his hometown Cleveland Heights, gives a lot of credit to the players’ hard work and determination.
“The kids show up ready to play every day, no matter what,” said Gilliam, in this third season. “Each one contributes positively to the overall dynamic, on and off the ice.”
He points out a few players, in particular — Skyler Rossbach, a sophomore captain, and Tom Karlsson, a senior exchange student from Sweden.
“Skyler is a true leader,” the coach said. “Everyday, he keeps the other players up, and he’s always pumped and ready to go. Tom has been a gift to this program. He has so much energy on the ice and it’s contagious.”
But not all the credit can be given to just the players themselves. Much of the team’s current success can be attributed to Gilliam’s coaching staff, Kirt Wells and the Bolt brothers, Chuckie and Johnny, both alumni of the Wolverines’ hockey program.
“The Bolt brothers and Kirt have been extremely helpful,” he said. “They come into each practice knowing exactly what needs to be accomplished. They have been huge assets, and when I first came into the program, they helped me transition into this new role.”
Gilliam has changed how the program runs, including shifting the amount of practices and ice time. His genuine passion and love for the game trickles down to each of his players, and his 30 years of experience playing and coaching only add to his capabilities as the leader of the program.
“We feed off Coach Gilliam’s passion. He’s a strong leader, and a strong coach. We’ve come a long way as a team, and last year was a stepping stone for this season of success,” says Skyler Rossbach.
The third prong of support that adds to the program’s success is the West Geauga community itself. Parents are constantly reaching out and asking how to help and volunteer their time, even parents of alumni, Gilliam said.
The stands have also been filling up fast with students, teachers and families from the West Geauga school system — including high school Principal Jay Bishop and Superintendent Geoff Palmer. The fans certainly do not go unnoticed by the coaching staff and players.
“The support is amazing,” Gilliam said. “It’s one of the dynamics of hockey that have kept me in this game over thirty years.”
This past weekend, the West G Wolverines played against Nordonia and came out on top with a 12-0 victory. The program also took the time to honor four seniors: James Kern, Tom Karlsson, Tate Georgevitch and Zach Maguire.
Gilliam has only positive things to say about the foursome.
“I’ve coached James, Tate and Zach for all three years I’ve been here, and I’ve had the pleasure to see them progress and grow, as well as pass on what they’ve learned to younger teammates,” the coach said. “This is Tom’s first year and he brings another dynamic to the team, which has amped up the level of play.”
The ultimate goal for WG’s team this season is to win the Baron cup and they are currently making a promising run.
“I know they can do it. They just need to continue to believe in themselves and work hard every day,” said Gilliam.
The Wolverines’ last game of the regular season is at Cleveland Heights High School Jan. 31 at 9 p.m. vs. Brush.
For more photos of the Nordonia game visit http://smu.gs/1fkGWEJ.