The Richmond Ravens’ Buddy Program has paid off well for the association in more ways than one.
Not only has it created mentorship and support for all ages, it has yielded a unique relationship for two players and a new coach for the association.
Midget “A” goalie Brynn Waisman and Novice goalie Hana Nishi have created a special bond that has led to new opportunities for both beyond what the program envisioned.
Waisman has often played in levels above her age group and is always aware of the nervousness of being with older girls. As such, she went out of her way to make the younger players feel comfortable being out on the ice with her.
Nishi took to her kindness immediately and began attending Waisman’s games to cheer her on. Parents, Bobby and Mimi Nishi, saw the positive change in their daughter’s performance through Waisman’s encouragement and asked her to help assistant coach in the 2017-18 season.
“It’s great to see females take on leadership roles within the Ravens association,” explained Bobby Nishi. “We need more female coaches and role models for our girls to look up to.”
Waisman took up the new-found friendship with the Nishi family and is also an assistant coach of Hana’s softball team.
She also volunteers with Ravens Atom C2 team as a goalie coach and once she turns 16 will be taking Hockey Canada’s official coaching program.
She says that the experience gained has led her to think of coaching and teaching as her future career.
“Hana and Brynn have really come to care for each other. Seeing Hana wearing Brynn’s No. 30 jersey at her games, holding her sign, and cheering her on is truly amazing,” marvelled Mimi Nishi.
Hana adds “I’ve become a better goalie and that when I’m scared, I know that she’ll be here for me.”
Hana will conclude her season at this weekend’s 21st annual Ice Classic at the Richmond Ice Centre.
Novice and Tyke teams will play a non-competitive schedule over the three days while there will also be action in the Midget, Bantam, Pee Wee and Atom Divisions. Waisman will be behind the bench with the Atom C2 Ravens.
