The start of training camp was an extra special moment for returning 20-year-old defenceman Parker Scherr. Entering into his third season with the Terriers, the Edmonton, AB, product was named captain. “I think he was the obvious choice,” says Terrier head coach and GM Blake Spiller. “He wore a letter for us last year and I think he’s the consensus from our team.”
“It’s an honour. I’ve been here for three years and I look forward to lead and be a good example to the new guys,” says Scherr. “Portage has a long history of winning and being a great team. The fact that I can be a captain with a cornerstone franchise is an honour. I have some big shoes to fill with [Tayem] Gislason being a good captain last year and [Kian] Calder the year before.”
Scherr (6’3, 220lbs) was acquired early in the 2022-23 season from the Olds Grizzlys (AJHL). A physical shutdown defender, he put up 17 points and 103 penalty minutes in 44 games. He played a large role on the back end through the playoffs and into the Centennial Cup, often paired with Gislason.
“A good captain has a certain type of respect that they earn from years in the league and setting a good example. Having that respect allows the captain to help the younger players develop. That’s what I’m going to try to do this season.”
Last season, he was named assistant captain and saw his role on the team increase. He had a career-high 36 points in 57 games and still kept his physical edge with 133 penalty minutes.
With a new season ahead, the sky is the limit for the new Terrier captain.