Braves' Humphreys ready for challenge with SJHL's North Stars

Derek Humphreys battles hard against the Kelowna Chiefs during KIJHL action.

Dunsmoor Creative photo

SPOKANE, Wash.- Second-year Braves forward Derek Humphreys has earned the shot he hoped for at the junior A level..

The Spokane product is excited for the opportunity to make the jump to the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League with the Battlefords North Stars. Humphreys says it as an exciting step he is ready for. 

“Every conversation I had with Battlefords coach Brayden Klimosko was very upbeat and positive,” says Humphreys, listed at five-foot-eight, 155 pounds. “I can tell coach Klimosko brings a ton of energy and I like that about him. I’m very excited to be a part of the North Stars program.”

Humphreys says that Braves coach Mike Bay has been important to his development, which helped him improve his scoring, from four as a rookie in 49 games to 25 this season. Growing confidence on the ice and getting opportunities helped Humphreys go from 13 points to 47 in what turned out to be a breakout season.

“Having more experience in the league and having grown stronger played in my favour this past season,” says Humphreys. “I did have a few games where I was in a dry spot, but I responded well in the second half.”

Humphreys says his two years with the Braves allowed him to mature physically and mentally.  That was extremely beneficial since he considers himself a late bloomer. In 98 career regular season games, Humphreys finished with 60 points. He added nine points in 11 playoff games.