The Huron Perth Lakers are bringing in St. Louis Blues Director of Player Development Tim Taylor in a consulting role for their midget program.
A Stratford native and former NHL'er, Taylor will serve as the Head of Midget Player Development and Operations with the Jr. Cullitons program. He will be a part of the full time staff but hopes to offer experience and vision for players who want to further their careers.
He says it is important to show local players that there are still options after their OHL draft year.
"We want to give players the chance to play in a competitive program, even after their minor midget year." He said from Chicago, with the Blues minor league team. "Some players are late bloomers and we can find opportunities for junior or college."
One thing that Taylor wants to work on is the contact between the program and local junior clubs. He sees the connections with the Stratford Cullitons, Listowel Cyclones and St. Marys Lincolns as a way to open doors.
"If we can get them on the ice three or four times with us and another one or two as an AP on junior teams then they are getting options."
While he will offer ideas, evaluation and connections, Taylor will not be part of the day to day activities. He has a busy time with his NHL job but will make himself heard when need be.
"I'm out of town almost 15 days of every month." He said. "I will be working with the guys and coaches as well as part of picking the team, but I won't be there all the time during the season."
What the organization is most looking forward to is the midgets will have an NHL player in their corner. Now in the front office of the Blues, Taylor's job is to evaluate talent for one of the best teams in the world. He can offer the know how that may help players to further their careers past their time at the AAA level.
At least, for Taylor, that is the plan. He hopes to work with local players who are dedicated to the game and want to make competitive hockey their future.