Elkhorn’s Karli Frederick has proven to be a productive playmaker as a rookie for the Assiniboine Community College (ACC) women’s hockey team.
As of Jan. 8, the daughter of Rodney and Bonita Frederick paced the Brandon-based school team with 18 points in 13 games. The centre was second on the team in goals with eight and 10 assists.
“She’s one of the offensive leaders of the team,” ACC head coach Terry Arksey said. “A player that has a strong offensive game. She skates very well and reads and reacts to the play very well. She plays in all areas of the ice and continues to play well for the Cougars at the American Collegiate Hockey Association level.”
Frederick, who is studying agribusiness, is definitely enjoying her time with the ACC women’s hockey team.
Loves being a Cougar
“The best part about playing for the Cougars is being able to be close to home and the new friendships I have made on the team,” she said. “My teammates are great and I love spending time with them.”
The ACC Cougars are in their second season competing at the ACHA level. In the latest ACHA Division II poll, released Dec. 7, the team was ranked fourth in the West Region.
The Cougars’ schedule features foes such as Iowa State University, Lakehead University, Minot State University, and University of Wisconsin – Stout, to name just a few.
Last season Frederick played midget AAA with the Yellowhead Chiefs.
“It has been different because the girls we play against are a lot older and stronger usually,” she said. “Travelling outside of Manitoba to play teams is also different for me.”
Early bloomer
Frederick got her start in the sport at the game of six.
“What I love about it is definitely the people you meet and the lasting friendships that it provides. As well, I find that it is a sport that builds a lot of character and teaches me a lot of life lessons.”
She said she learned a lot from Derek Tibbatts, who coached her on the midget AAA Chiefs.
“He is someone who has taught me more than I can thank him for and he has had a huge impact on the player that I am today,” Frederick said.
Her father also was a major influence. Frederick said he was the one who got her started playing. He coached her in minor hockey and encouraged her to do better. Frederick greatly appreciates all that her parents have done to support her hockey career.
“They are my biggest supporters and are always there for me,” she said. “I cannot thank them enough for all the time and money they have spent on me to allow me to play the game that I love.
“They are always there to watch me play and are my No. 1 fans.”
