The engines have started
All 12 Maritime Junior Hockey League training camps are now in full swing.
The Truro Bearcats kicked off their initial activities on Tuesday and the thinning out process has begun. As always, the early decisions are the easy ones.
The Bearcats finished last season’s regular-season play in top spot in the Eastlink South Division. That rookieladen squad played better and finished higher than most observers around the league had anticipated.
Fifteen of those were eligible to return. Some, for one reason or another, have chosen not to report. Some are still at major junior camps.
The nucleus, however, will be a strong one with an abundance of leaders prepared to step up. Once again, the Bearcats enter a season with the cupboards well stocked and a promise of another competitive entry in the MHL.
June’s midget draft was a rewarding one for the Bearcats. Those choices, along with those waiting in the wings from previous drafts, will ensure a competitive camp.
Management has been busy acquiring additional depth and experience via trades within the MHL. The search for these commodities has also gone beyond the borders of the Atlantic Provinces.
The 2016–17 season has a few new wrinkles. A key one is the introduction of a Player Registration Policy, not unlike many held by other junior leagues in the country.
Simply put, all players 16, 17 and 18 years of age, who have not previously played in the MHL, will be required to pay a Registration Fee ($1,000) to the league. Response to the policy has been mixed.
This Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the players get a break from on-ice activities when they participate in a Family Carnival at Victoria Park. This event, in conjunction with the Colchester Mental Health Friendship Club, will see the Bearcats man the nine stations, which should be fun for all.
Bearcats fans can pick up their season passes at the Bearcat office (640 Prince Street, Suite 303). Prices remain the same as last year (adult, $220; senior/student, $180).
It’s time to get busy.