Head coach Ben Roberts spends a lot of time at the rink with the BFA Bobwhites, leading practices, games during the long winter hockey season. While the team is always trying to win and get better, Roberts says the most important lessons from hockey go beyond what happens during a game.

According to Roberts, one of the biggest things he wants players to learn has nothing to do with scoring goals or running plays.

“The most important thing I try to teach the players is teamwork and respect,” Roberts said. “Hockey skills matter, but learning how to work together and support your teammates is just as important.”

Roberts’ interest in coaching comes from his own time playing hockey at Castleton state college from 2010-2014. and the coaches who helped him when he was younger, like Coach Ducolon, Coach Moffat and many others. Those experiences shaped how he works with players today.

“Some of the coaches I had growing up really influenced the way I coach now,” Roberts said. “I try to take the good things they taught me and pass them on to the players.”

Like any season, there are times when things at the rink don’t go the way a team hopes. When that happens, Roberts says it can help to step away for a little while and reset before coming back to focus again.

“When things aren’t going the best, sometimes you just need to step away from hockey for a bit,” Roberts said. “It helps you clear your head and come back ready to work.”

Even during the tougher parts of the season, Roberts says the team is what keeps him motivated.

“What motivates me the most is coming to the rink and being around the boys,” Roberts said. “Seeing them improve and work together as a team makes it all worth it.”

For Roberts, coaching the Bobwhites is about more than just wins and losses. It’s about helping players grow, improve, and learn how to work hard for each other throughout the season.