Last week, the Wichita Thunder announced that Jay Dickman would be making his return to Wichita. 

Dickman, the 6’6” forward found himself towards the top of the lineup this past season, as he had 19 goals and 28 assists for 47 points, over 71 games. 

Jay is one of the many returning players for this upcoming season, and he gives head coach Bruce Ramsay some credit on why he chose to return. “One of the big factors was Ramsay. Rammer was probably one of the best coaches I’ve ever had.

Motivated. It’s one common thing among many of the players when they’ve been asked about seeing Fort Wayne, the team who eliminated them from playoff contention, win the Kelly Cup. “It’s definitely motivated us a little more, and we’ll come into next season with a chip on our shoulder.”

One thing that was easily noticeable last season was the core group that Ramsay had constructed. Dickman believes that 21-22 will see a great group as well. “I expect us to have a pretty good group again, we have a lot of the good core guys coming back, I believe. You lose some guys to certain things, but it is what it is. It’s a job now and take different other opportunities, and if you can succeed in different places then you do.” 

To prepare for the season, he’s been sticking to the same routine. “I do about the same thing I’ve been doing. I went to school for science, so I write out my own workout plans, meal plans and just get back into getting that strength back that I lost during the year.”

The shortened off-season has affected the preparations a lot for Dickman. “Normally you have a little bit longer time lifting and training, but also just trying to get your body back to 100%, everyone has bumps and bruises and you have things that are a little egging and you’re just trying to heal them so they’re 100% before you start working out and skating.”

Personally, Jay would like to do the same as last year. “I just want to come in and contribute and do what I did last year. But, play solid defense, kill penalties, produce points, score goals, and I just want to help the team win games. That’s the biggest thing for me. It’s not about the acclimates that come personally.”

Fans who watch the games can also have expectations for him. “The fans can expect the same as last year, Working hard. Hopefully grow the beard back out, I know some of the fans got upset when I cut the beard midway through the year.” 

Going back to the topic of fans, that’s one thing he’s missed a lot from last season. “I really hope that we’re able to interact with the fans because that was one big thing you missed last year and I love giving back to the community.”

Representing the Thunder means a lot to Dickman. “It means a lot to me, I was in Indy and i didn’t play much and it sucks but you definitely got to put your time in, and I came to Wichita and it was the first place I was given an actual opportunity and it’s definitely a very special place to me, and I love Wichita and putting on that sweater.”

By Gabe Daniel