The hallways of Stride Place were once again filled with the sounds of shuffling hockey bags and excited chatter. Hockey season is back for another year and the Portage Terriers kicked things off with their annual training camp powered by Booster Juice on Saturday and Sunday. Over 50 hopefuls were split into 3 teams and put to the test over the two days.
Returning players basically assured of a roster spot were mixed with young hopefuls trying to crack the roster. “I’m trying to show them what it’s like to play at the Junior A level,” says returning 20-year-old defenceman Grant Dardis. “It’s good to be back. I’ve been training and working in the summer. I’m ready to get back at it.”
Dardis played regular minutes on the back end last season often paired with fellow American, Owen Witt. “I’m excited to see everyone together and to see how we gel. I can’t wait to get straight into the season,” says Witt. “A few of us have been skating a bit together already and the energy was really good.”
The team made a number of cuts after the final practice on Sunday night, with more to come after the first the first preseason game on Tuesday. The Terriers will host the Virden Oil Capitals on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 7:30pm. It’s $5 at the door with season ticket holders & Kids Club members getting in for free.