Tad Kozun has signed a two-year contract extension with the Nipawin Hawks. (Submitted photo/Nipawin Hawks)
Contract Talks

Nipawin Hawks extend contract of Kozun

Sep 7, 2023 | 11:52 AM

The Nipawin Hawks have extended the contract of Tad Kozun.

The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) club made the announcement on Wednesday, a day ahead of the team kicking off training camp for the 2022 – 23 SJHL season. Going into his second full season behind the bench and still with a year left on his first contract with the team, Kozun said adding two more years is an honour in his hometown.

“It’s obviously big,” Kozun said. “Especially heading into the season when you are in your last year to know there is two more years coming on top of that, it’s time to get to work and continue the process.”

With a strong 2003-group returning, more experience at all positions, and Damon Cunningham returning in net, Kozun said hosting game one of the first round this year is the next goal.

“I would say that’s very fair; you have to take the next steps. We talked about it last year, getting to the playoffs and getting that experience. Being able to host that first playoff game is the goal, but you must put in the work to get there,” he added.

In Kozun’s first full season the Hawks finished in eighth place, up from 11th when he took over on the interim. President Shayne Pickering said inking Kozun to an extension was important to the organization ahead of the season.

“We’re extremely excited to get Tad extended before the season kicks off,” Pickering said. “He’s brought a lot hard work and positive impacts to the organization. We as a board believe Tad has earned this extension and we can’t wait to see what he can do with another season behind the bench.”

Nipawin will begin training camp Thursday evening at the Centennial Arena.

clark.stork@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @ClarkStork

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