The first week of Training Camp has been completed.
It was a full one, culminating with a home and home exhibition series with the Pictou County Crushers.
The Bearcats came up short in both, losing 9-0 in New Glasgow, then falling 5-3 at home in an exciting game.
The goal of giving prospects a look and a shot was accomplished. For many it was their first taste of MHL play.
For many, with the start of the school year in sight, it’s back to their respective U18 teams, with an understanding of what each must do to improve chances down the road.
While the trickle back from Major Junior camps is well underway, roster spots are being filled, and the open ones are wide open for challenge.
This week is all about getting ready for the opening of Regular Season play. Making selections and getting all on the same page for the opening is the task at hand.
In the loss Saturday, a trio of returnees looked ready to go and provide leadership in activities this week.
Nathan Curson (19) is coming off his rookie Bearcat season when he played all 52 games, scoring 12 and assisting on 22 others. He came to the Bearcats as EOJHL Rookie-of-the-Year from the Athens Jr. “B” Aeros (ON).
Drew Keiver (19), a Dartmouth native, came to the Bearcats last year via the Prep School route. Following a season with Rothesay, he spent two seasons at Deerfield Academy (MA). Injury shortened his Bearcat season, but he did score 14 goals and 11 helpers in 39 games. He was a draft choice by Truro and Moncton.
Antoine Fontaine (20) came to Truro at the Trade Deadline last year. He scored 9 points in 14 games but upped those stats (7 goals, 4 assists) in 15 playoff games. The Granby, QC native was a third-year Moosehead.
Exhibition play continues Friday when the Amherst Ramblers come to the RECC. The Bearcats travel to Amherst, Saturday. Both games start at 7:00pm.