Hockey is officially back at Westland Insurance Arena.
Today, the Yorkton Terriers open their main camp, consisting of fitness testing, inter-squad games, and scrimmages.
Terriers Head Coach Emery Olauson says he’s excited to see everyone back at the rink.
“I feel it has been a long summer; I am very excited to see all our prospects, recruits, and returners hit the ice,” said Olauson. “On a good team, however, the excitement will turn to dread as we know there will be hard decisions to make in the coming days and weeks, and we expect a competitive and intense camp,” added Olauson.
The Terriers enter the season looking to build off a second half, which saw them collect points in 15 of the final 25 games.
Olauson was asked about the potential of a strong group of returning forwards.
“We certainly can return a group of forwards that seemed to grow into a very competitive bunch,” said Olauson. “It is always going to be important to know something about yourselves as a team and create that identity, and I know we have a group of forwards that can play with pace and work hard every day,” added Olauson.
Last year, they were led by Jaron Desnoyers, who was named an assistant captain in the second half. Last year, he had a team-leading 50 points and led the team in assists with 32.
He talked about the importance of starting camp off on the right foot.
“It’s very important to set a tone and push the pace to help the team succeed throughout the season. The high pace is important because it allows guys to trust one another, and they know that the guy beside them will give it their all,” said Desnoyers. “I’m also looking forward to building and continuing the leadership role I was trusted with last year. I’m just excited to get this season going and get rolling with the group of guys we have,” continued Desnoyers.
Terriers open up preseason play against the MJHL’s Virden Oil Capitals on September 2nd, and a full camp schedule and preseason games are available on the website at yorktonterriers.com
