As the Yorkton Terriers wrapped up their pre-Christmas schedule with a decisive 6–3 victory over their divisional rival, the Red Wings, last weekend, they extended their winning streak to five games and vaulted into first place in the Viterra Division.
As the calendar prepares to flip to 2025, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the incredible progress the team has made throughout 2024.
The 2023-24 campaign began with uncertainty. The sudden departure of Head Coach and General Manager Mat Hehr just weeks before training camp left the organization in scramble mode. After an intensive search, the Terriers secured Emery Olauson, who returned to the SJHL from British Columbia, bringing with him a wealth of experience as both a former player in the league and an assistant coach with the Flin Flon Bombers, and also had coaching stops Southern Professional Hockey League, KIJHL and Maritime Junior Hockey League.
The transition was far from smooth. The Terriers struggled early, limping into the Christmas break with a 9–21–2 record. Still, there were glimmers of potential—anchored by a strong core of forwards and an elite goaltender that gave fans hope for a brighter future.
That hope was nearly derailed when the team announced on January 30th that it faced serious financial troubles and needed community support to survive. The “Save the Terriers” season-ticket drive was launched, and the response was overwhelming. The community shattered the initial goal of 900 tickets, selling over 1100 and securing the team’s immediate future.
Team President Curtis Malysh lauded the community’s efforts.
“The ‘Save the Terriers’ season-ticket blitz was a resounding success, with fans rallying together to provide the team with the desperately needed support. This effort proved that the Terriers are more than just a hockey team—they’re a cherished cornerstone of our community,” said Malysh.
Despite the financial uncertainty, the Terriers demonstrated resilience on the ice. They posted an 11–12–3 record after Christmas, finishing just six points shy of a playoff berth.
Fast forward to the 2024–25 campaign, and the Terriers have completely transformed. Armed with a potent offence and elite goaltending, they’ve recaptured their swagger and established themselves as contenders.
Winning has brought fans back in droves. The Terriers now lead the SJHL in attendance, averaging over 1,300 fans per game at the Westland Arena—nearly double the 650 they averaged last season.
“Leading the league in attendance is incredible and something we must strive for every year,” said former Terrier and current Team Governor Grant Ottenbreit. “This is more than hockey; it’s a community event every night. The economic and cultural impact of the Terriers is enormous, and maintaining this momentum is crucial for the team and the city.”
The Terriers have delivered on their end of the bargain with an impressive 18–9–1 record, positioning themselves as serious contenders in the second half of the season. Their depth is evident, with four players currently in the SJHL’s top 20 scorers, including Captain Jaron Desnoyers, who is tied for third with 35 points.
“The biggest difference this year is our ability to win in so many different ways,” said Desnoyers. “There’s a belief in this group that no matter the situation, we can come out on top. The commitment from both returning players and newcomers to bring success to Yorkton has been incredible.”
A key component of the Terriers’ resurgence has been their goaltending. Ethan Farrow has provided stability in his first full season, while rookie Callum Creig has exceeded expectations. Creig leads the league in shutouts and is second in wins among rookies, making the duo the only tandem in the SJHL with double-digit victories.
Head Coach Emery Olauson credited several factors for the team’s turnaround.
“The community has rallied behind us, and the team has fed off that energy,” said Olauson. “We’ve also emphasized continuity, higher expectations, and finding the right fit for our roster. Recruiting during the offseason was successful, and we prioritized bringing in players who could be role models for our community while helping us compete for a championship”.
“Our returning players understand our system and expectations, and our first-year players have thrived under excellent leadership,” Olauson added.
The Terriers’ journey this season has been one of perseverance, grit, and overcoming adversity. Despite injuries and early-season road challenges, they’ve remained focused and continue to excel. With over half their remaining games at home and the unwavering support of their community, the stage is set for a strong push in 2025.
Winning doesn’t just solve problems—it lays the foundation for sustained success.
