Ho-Sang coming of age

by Evan Mathias

It seems the transition period into the Ontario Hockey League is over for Josh Ho-Sang.

Drafted fifth overall by the Windsor Spitfires in the 2012 OHL Priority Selection, Ho-Sang had a rough start to his OHL career, something that he is quick to admit.

“At the start of last year I was very hard headed and I’ll be the first to admit that but this year I’m really buying in to what (head coach Bob Boughner) is saying and I really believe in our coaches and our team and I know we can go far,” said Ho-Sang.

Last season Ho-Sang made numerous ill timed, single handed efforts with the puck, followed by passes that led to turnovers. He said that making the right play is something he has been working on this season.

“I’m kind of a pass first guy but I’m trying to change my mentality to just making the right play at the right time,” said Ho-Sang.

The change in his play is obvious. In 63 games last season Ho-Sang had 14 goals and a total of 44 points. This season through 19 games he has 23 points and is just four goals behind last season’s goal total.

The Spitfires coaching staff said they are impressed with everything Ho-Sang can bring to the table. Assistant coach Jerrod Smith said his improvements are easily noticeable.

“He’s learned a lot in his year-and-a-half here so far and we progress everyday with him both on and off the ice,” said Smith.

Ho-Sang will need to continue playing well as the Spitfires aim for a playoff berth after missing the post-season last year.