The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Flin Flon Bombers president Duke Rodnisky likes the direction his organization is heading. Part of that has to do with the new bench boss, Doug Stokes, but also the players, board members and volunteers. "We're in a very positive situation right now," Rodnisky said. "The players feel that and a lot of the fans I talk to feel the same way. It's going to take a bit of time, it's not going to happen overnight. A new coach comes in and he wants to put his own spin on the team and he's got his ideas how he wants the team to be." Stokes has a desire to restore the Bomber pride and bring the teams style of play back to what it was in the 'old days'. "He wants a team that's physical, that never gives up, they're in shape, pride in the organization, pride wearing that sweater," explained Rodnisky. "Doug is really caught up with the tradition of this franchise and he wants to bring that tradition back." The most important thing about the relationship between the organization and Stokes is the fact the two wanted each other once the coaching position became available. "He always wanted to come here, there was never a question of that," Rodnisky said. Stokes appears to be the right guy for the job early, as there is a noticeable difference in team practices, which reflects in games. Rodnisky practically glows when talking about Stokes, but since the beginning of the season, the Bombers president has seen improvements in the players. Things are also looking good off the ice to Rodnisky. "I think this is a tremendous board," he said confidently. "I've been involved in a lot of different, not just hockey, but a lot of different boards over the years and I just like to thank all the board members here for their total commitment to this organization. It's unbelievable and everybody is working together. "We don't always agree on everything, but I don't think any organization you ever do," he explained. "The one thing about this organization is when we don't agree, everybody still has the common goal and everybody works with the decisions that are made and we go after that goal." However, as good as things have been of late, they need help. The organization has 13 board members putting in 10-40 hours a week and their volunteers need help. "If it wasn't for all the volunteers out there, without the volunteers and the support of the community it wouldn't happen," Rodnisky said on preparing for games. "Our volunteer base is getting exhausted because our volunteer base is down, and I just encourage anybody who wants to get involved to come out and help." He especially emphasized January, when the team plays nine games at home. "It's going to be wild in that rink and we're going to need all the help we can get," said Rodnisky. Those interested in becoming volunteers can contact the Bomber office at 687-4404.
