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The last hockey season was a special one for three Oak Lake cousins as they got to suit up together for the U18 AAA Yellowhead Chiefs female team.

Sisters Brooklynn (2007-born) and Courtney Cochrane (2009), the daughters of Darby and Kelly, were in their final and first years, respectively, with the successful squad. Their cousin Rose Cochrane (2010), the daughter of Erin and Kyle, was a rookie playing up an age group.

“Being able to have my cousins as my teammates is something I was very grateful to have experienced, and definitely a special part of the season for all of us,” Rose said. “There were never dull moments with the two of them and I could always rely on them to be able to give me the best advice and support that I needed. Even though we were together almost everyday, we got along and pushed each other in so many different ways to become successful this season.”

Last season the Chiefs had six blue liners listed on the roster. Three of them were Cochranes.

“Something I enjoy about playing defence is just the overall intensity and battling in the corners,” Courtney said. “Getting that pin and your center swinging in to grab the puck or me being able to break away from the battle and make an outlet pass to a winger looking to break out of our end.”

It was more than just wins that Brooklynn enjoyed about playing for the Chiefs. Camaraderie played a big role.

“We went through many ups and downs but we were always there for each other and supported each other,” she said. “We spent usually five out of the seven days of the week together so my teammates became my second family. I enjoyed the long bus rides to playoff games and tournaments; the bus karaoke and the many yummy meals the parents provided us when we were away from home.”

Rose Cochrane

In her first season at the U18 AAA level, Rose scored six goals. She recorded six assists for a total of 12 points in 45 games. Chiefs head coach Derek Tibbatts said, “Rose is a great kid that has a very high hockey IQ. She has all the tools to become an elite hockey player.”

Rose appreciates all that her family has done to help her pursue her passion for hockey.

“My family’s support has been a huge part so far in my hockey career,” she said. “They have always pushed me to be a better player and in person in every way.

They are always there for me when I need help, or a little boost to my confidence. My family has never hesitated to be there for me and to show up for me, and that is why they are a huge part of my hockey career. My parents will and have always made the time to drive me to games and practices, which shows me how much they support me, and how they are always there when I need them the most.”

Brooklynn Cochrane

As a veteran on the Chiefs, Brooklynn was a key player and leader. She served as an assistant captain. Brooklynn had three goals and 13 points in 43 games.

Tibbatts said she is “a very all around solid D-man. Great skater with a good hockey IQ.” Brooklynn has committed to play this coming season for and study at Red Deer (Alta.) Polytechnic. The school’s hockey teams compete in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference. While the Red Deer Polytechnic Queens are her future, Brooklynn enjoyed the unique experience that was her final Chiefs’ season.

“Being teammates with my younger sister Courtney and cousin Rose was something I never thought I’d experience,” she said. “Having them in my last year is something I’ll cherish forever. Although Courtney and I bickered and Rose sometimes took my ice time, having them with me was so much fun. I enjoyed our weekly carpool rides up to Shoal Lake and our gas station snack runs. I enjoyed being stall buddies with Rose and getting to have each of them as a D-partner throughout the year.”

Courtney Cochrane

Also on the blue line, Courtney scored one goal and recorded three assists. Tibbatts said her strengths are her “hard shot and a physical player with a great first pass in the D-zone.”

The backing of her family has been important to her and Brooklynn’s hockey careers.

“My parents’ support has always been extremely important to me,” Courtney said. “I would honestly not be able to achieve anything without their long hours on the road with me, weekends in hotels, and constant reminders to grab my sticks or check my bag to make sure I have everything. My parents’ support means so much to me and has really pushed me to work to achieve big because of their want for me to succeed and the constant support and encouragement from them always makes me want to do my best. I thank them so much for everything they have had to give up in order for me to come so far in hockey.”

Cochrane cousins connect on Chiefs

By Robin Wark