Training Camp has many stages. The Bearcats have begun the task of addressing each.
The arrival of players for registration, meetings and the Meet and Greet with management, staff, billets and volunteers went off without a hitch.
Workouts and practices for the two groups were set for Monday and Tuesday, beginning at 12:30 pm. Intra-squad games are scheduled for 2:00 pm on Wednesday and Thursday. Drop by.
Exhibition play against the Valley Wildcats is set for Friday, 7:00 pm at the RECC ($5.00 admission), then Saturday in Valley.
The trickle back from the QMJHL Camp is underway and will continue for the foreseeable future for all teams in the MHL.
The Bearcats learned this weekend that Logan Quinn and Eric Halliday, both defencemen, have been retained by the QMJHL, in Cape Breton and Blainville-Boisbriand respectively.
The team remained busy acquiring the rights of two Quebec players, each with Major Junior experience.
Val-d’Or native, Matthew Bolduc (19) was acquired from the Valleyfield Braves (QJHL). The forward spent his rookie season with the Braves and last year with his hometown Foreurs.
Defenceman, Nathan Dubreuil (18), from St. Narcisse, split last season between the Moncton Wildcats and U-18 hockey in Trois Rivieres.
With eight Bearcats aging out at the end of last season, along with players moving up to the QMJHL, or traded, or choosing other options, there are plenty of roster spots available.
In fact, only six Bearcats have returned – two goalies, three forwards and one defenceman. What a great year to be trying out.
The decision makers responsible for the vetting know what they’re looking for, and the talent pool present is a deep one. Competition should be awesome.
All attendees will be given the chance to strut their stuff but things happen quickly, out of necessity, so reducing numbers to a manageable one is important.
Next Monday is a welcomed off day.
Sydney, NS
6’6”, 220 lbs
20, Forward
Bearcat-of-the-Week honours go to returning forward Reese Allen. The graduate of the U18 Sydney Rush split his rookie season between the Cornwall Colts and Miramichi Timberwolves. The big left winger was acquired from Miramichi at last January’s Trade Deadline. His skill set and size are valuable assets for the Bearcats.