A veteran of 197 games at the Junior ‘A’ level, the Canora, Saskatchewan native split his junior career between the Melville Millionaires in the SJHL and the Steinbach Pistons in Manitoba. Rakochy was a part of the 2012-13 Pistons roster who were able to capture a league championship in six games over the Dauphin Kings.
The 26-year-old former puck stopper is now a seed farmer by trade and also serves as an Assistant Coach with the SJHL’s Yorkton Terriers. While it may seem like a lot on his plate, Rakochy is ready for the opportunity.
“It’s an honor to join the Wolverines,” Rakochy said of his role with the organization. “I’m really excited about his (Taylor Harnett) vision of the team and the program. What the team did last season, it made people rethink the Wolverines which was amazing to see. I’m just looking forward to being a part of it.”
A big part of what Rakochy brings to the table is his wealth of experience at the Junior ‘A’ level. Being able to relate to the Wolverines goaltending tandem is part of the key to success in the crease, and according to Rakochy, the mental aspect of the game is one of the biggest areas where he hopes to make an impact.
“Of course we work on technique and make sure everything is crisp, but a big thing is going out there with the goalies and talking about the position. I’ve been between the pipes and I know what they’re thinking and going through, hopefully, I can guide them and steer them in the right direction.”
While posting a solid goals-against average and save percentage is important to Rakochy, it’s not everything. The newest member of the Wolverines staff says having solid numbers is great, but in the end, it’s about the wins.
“Numbers are important, but the biggest thing is having more wins than losses. If I can have two goaltenders that have more wins than losses, then I’m doing my job at the end of the day. I’m just excited to put in the work. When I played in the MJHL, Wayway always had the best ice in the league so I’m looking forward to coming back,” Rakochy concluded.
Welcome to the Wolverines organization, Zach & family.
