The first quarter is over.
It was an impressive twenty-five years since returning to the junior ranks. Call it time well spent.
The Truro Junior Bearcats had won four League championships, eight Divisional titles, one Fred Page Cup, and one appearance at the national Royal Bank Cup. Hard to top that.
Each year, the goals were to ice a competitive team, make the playoffs, and then see what happens. It was a good plan, one the team looks to continue going into this season.
Last year, the team went five games into the MHL Finals before succumbing to the strong Summerside Capitals.
Many thought that the Bearcat team overachieved. The Bearcats didn’t think so, especially those who return this year, looking to go further.
Preparation for this year is well underway. Optimism is high and all signs are positive.
Shawn Evans, head coach since taking on that position in March of 2002, will lead the charge. Former Bearcat goalie, Shayne Campbell returns as Assistant Coach.
Joining the staff is Truro native, Richard MacKenzie. His credentials are deep, with playing experience at the junior, university, pro and senior levels.
The management team looks forward to the opening of camp at month’s end. With just five graduates last year, a large contingent is eligible to report.
Whether all return remains in question; however, the prospect of a strong nucleus, deep in all zones, is very realistic.
General Manager, Jamie Barbour, has been wheeling and dealing since the season ended. He’s succeeded in bringing experienced acquisitions to the pack.
The Canadian Junior Hockey League allows participating teams to carry eight twenty-year-olds.
The Bearcats look to fill all those spots for the coming year. That’s an indicator.
The Bearcats entered the July U18 draft seeking scorers. The scouts did their job, adding prospects in all zones.
In some respects, the Bearcat cupboard is full. Players will have their hands full cracking the 2022-2023 Bearcat lineup.
The fun is just beginning.