If it ain't broke, don't fix it.
That's the philosophy the Kerry Park Islanders are going with after announcing that the coach that led the team to their first regular season championship since 2005-06 is staying on.
Head coach Jake Ebner has signed a two-year extension with the team.
"I enjoyed every minute of being with the Islanders and it’s a great opportunity to continue growing as a coach," said Ebner. "The season obviously didn’t end as we would have liked so having the opportunity to come back and start getting prepared for next season is exciting."
Also returning to the bench for her fifth-straight season is assistant coach Amelia Demelo though next season she'll be joined by her brother Dryden Demelo.
"Having played for Kerry Park and just finishing his junior career he is excited to get into coaching and we are lucky to have him as he will also be a big help with our goalies," Ebner said.
While the bench staff won't change much, the roster will. The team said goodbye to Jobey Pearson, Justin Pichor, Kyler Smith, Bryce Burnett, Carson Brown, and Eric Stinson who have all graduated from junior hockey.
Ebner has confirmed that Stinson has signed to play next season with the University of Victoria Vikes. Meanwhile, co-captain Matson Waring will still be wearing orange next season but it won't be with Kerry Park. Waring has signed with the BCHL's Nanaimo Clippers.
There are no hard feelings, however.
"We are all excited for him," Ebner said.
