Schatz solidifying lasting legacy in Humboldt

Heading into the stretch run of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) season Broncos’ centreman Logan Schatz is playing the best hockey of his career.

The 20 year-old Allan product was named the SJHL player of the month for December on Wednesday. Humboldt’s leading scorer compiled four goals and 13 assists in just nine games during the month. The Broncos’ captain said his line mates, Jaxon Joseph and Conner Lukan are keys to his success.

“Things are going well; I’ve really clicked with Joseph and Lukan. I can’t say enough good things about them,” Schatz said.

Schatz has 16 goals and 35 assists, good enough for third among SJHL scorers. The potential for Schatz to claim a scoring title is enticing following major injuries in two of his four seasons. As a 17 year-old Schatz was injured crashing into the boards head first, he missed 17 games. Last season a dislocated elbow forced him to miss 27 more. Schatz said it’s great to be at full stride rather than working to catch up.

“It’s always tough getting back into the line-up those two years. In December everyone is in full swing and you are starting your year. It’s nice to finally be playing some games,” Schatz said.

Schatz made his Bronco debut in March of 2014 registering three assists against the Notre Dame Hounds. The offensive output set the stage for Schatz’s career. The bench mark for career points as a player in the current SJHL era is 200. North Battlefords’ Layne Young has accomplished the feat, Melfort sniper Travis Mayan also reached the milestone two seasons ago. Prior to those marquee names, Kindersley’s Troy Schwab turned the trick in 2004. The number is still in reach for Schatz, he has 157 points over his career. Even if he doesn’t reach the plateau Schatz will still leave a mark on Humboldt. He is the club’s most prolific point producer since Devin Edgerton put up a dazzling 256 in just two seasons between 1989-1991. Schatz recently surpassed star defensemen Brady Wacker who had 146 over his career. Schatz said the news of the accomplishment was special.

“It is pretty cool, it’s a big honour. There has been some great hockey players come through this organization,” he said.

Schatz moved from home on his 15th birthday for AAA midget. He moved to Warman and suited up for the Beardy’s Blackhawks before committing to the coach Dean Brockman. Schatz said he didn’t know how his career would go in the green and gold.

“I never would have thought things would come to this. I am pretty happy with the four years I’ve been in Humboldt, I can’t say enough about all they have done for me,” Schatz said.

One aspect of his career does still give him an uneasy feeling, that’s post season success. The Broncos haven’t won a playoff game since March of 2014. Schatz has played 13 playoff games registering three points. He said bringing a title back to Humboldt is his remaining goal.

“We have to find a way to beat the top teams before the end of the year and if we do that I think we will be just fine,” he said.

The Broncos break is over, the team will play in Weyburn Friday, and the club will meet Estevan Saturday night, two teams hovering near Humboldt in the standings with 22 games remaining.