After an exhaustive tryout process that included three skills tryouts, two exhibition games and an intra-squad game, the team is set. This year, more 2005 players arrived at tryouts than ever before making the decisions for the team staff very difficult. However, the coaches and the organization are very excited that the work put in over the past two years, along with some new additions to the team will create some very positive results.
To highlight the possibilities for this team, in the first tryout game against the North Central Predators, the team came out flying, scoring early and often, winning the game 10-3. This win felt especially good for the veterans who have been working hard for two seasons to get a win like that. In the second game during the tryout process, with the entire team in the lineup, the Highlanders played against a very strong Huron Perth Laker team, a group that had played together for two seasons already. It was a hard fought game in which the Lakers won 4-2, with an empty netter but the Highlanders dominated many parts of the game.
This year's team has a great mix of returning and new players. Returning players are: Nathan Doran, Aidan Broderick, Brett Warrilow, Cooper Schneider, Austin Allen, Dylan Szymanowski, Josh Dales, Hunter Strong and Myles Playter between the pipes. Joining the Highlanders for the first time include: Cameron Lytle, Nate Arnold, Matt McLellan, Quinton Pagé, Alex McGillivray, Kye Soychak, Wyatt Cayley, Jarrett Trumbley, Jaxon Gawel and Derek Hartley in net.
Now that the players have made the team, the real work begins. This past weekend, it started with our fitness evaluations and each player committing to a fitness program that is tailored to being successful in hockey. This work, along with some education on eating habits will help the players be ready for the team workouts beginning in August. Congratulations to all players that made the team and let's get ready for a great season.