Topeka Pilots
Unlike most professional sports, hockey players hoping to play for Division 1 schools, and ultimately a professional team, typically have to compete in a junior league for two to three years after high school before a scout will seriously consider their potential.
For Simon Watson, Topeka Pilots head coach and general manager, this is just one of many reasons he wants to bring new fans to the Stormont Vail Events Center this year.
“These young men are chasing their dreams with skates and sticks and giving it everything they have every game, often far away from their families,” he said. “They’re putting their heart and soul into this, and that’s why we appreciate our relationships with our local fans and community partners so much for cheering them on.”
But it’s athleticism, affordability and entertainment as much as altruism that engenders team loyalty among fans, says Watson.
“We had nine players make NCAA commitments last year and look to increase that number this season,” he said. “And we’re really excited to have one player on the 2020 NHL draft list in Montreal next year. These players are highly motivated to make the playoffs.”
Last year the team came close to the Robertson Cup playoffs. With several returning players, Watson is optimistic about the team’s chances in 2020.
BOISTEROUS FUN
With its scraping skates, penalty box timeouts and loud thwacks when pucks or players slam against the Plexiglass, Pilots hockey is a boisterous, fast-paced night out. Music, fun activities for all ages, videos, special promotions and Ace, the mascot, complement the action on the ice with well-timed diversions.
“Watching hockey on television doesn’t do the sport justice,” Watson said. “It’s an energetic atmosphere and really affordable family entertainment that’s best witnessed in person.”
But to keep hockey relevant as a sport, Watson believes that in addition to creating memories for fans in the stands, it’s important for the team to inspire youngsters to pursue hockey as a sport. The Pilots offer clinics and youth hockey programs to spur interest.
COMMUNITY FOCUS
In October, the Pilots hosted an event that drew 3,400 students from area schools for a regular season game. Watson says players also participate in Boys & Girls Clubs of Topeka activities and school reading programs.
““We pride ourselves on developing hockey players who are good teammates and valued contributors to their communities.””
Team members, who include players from Sweden, Canada and the Czech Republic, stay with billet families during the season.
“We have great support from our billet families and we couldn’t have a junior hockey team without their strong commitment to our program” he said.
LEAD BY EXAMPLE
Watson’s career trajectory mirrors the aspirations of his players. Born in Owensound, Ontario, he played Division 1 hockey at St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York, and professional hockey in the Central Hockey League (CHL) for the Lubbock Cotton Kings, Rocky Mountain Rage, and the Missouri Mavericks.
In 2011, he was named the CHL Man of the Year and retired as a player to become the Mavericks’ assistant director of hockey operations. From 2011 to 2017, he served in many roles, including as associate coach and director of player personnel, before joining the Topeka Pilots in 2018.
“I’ve been on the same path as my players so I can understand and relate to the pressures and the expectations they’re under to chase their dreams with everything they’ve got,” he said.
The Topeka Pilots keep their sport relevant by working toward providing memories to fans in the stands and inspiring youngsters to pursue hockey as a sport.
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