The Portage Terriers’ Spring Camp powered by Booster Juice kicked off Friday afternoon at Stride Place. There were 59 young hopeful hockey players from around North America who were split into three teams to be assessed by the Terrier scouting and coaching staff.
Terrier Head Scout Angus Moar talks about what they are looking for. “It would be nice to find some scoring. Every team needs guys who can put the puck in the net.”
The teams practiced on Friday afternoon before scrimmaging against each other Friday night and Saturday morning.
By Saturday evening the roster will be reduced and the rookies will be joined by the returning veterans for the main training camp.
“We want players that are hard working and can play a 200 foot game,” says Moar. “They need to be able to compete and battle.”
The veteran players are looking forward to getting back on the ice. “I had a great summer. I was able to travel and see family. I was working out for majority of it,” says Terrier defenseman Parker Seymour.
Seymour, who is from Fort McMurray, AB had nine points in 35 games last season. “I’m excited. I think we have a good team and can do some damage. I really want to win here. The Centennial Cup is in my home town this year, and I would love nothing more than to win it there. I’m hoping to see some skill and grit out of the new guys. I’ve met some of the new guys so far and they seem skilled and tough.”
The Terriers will play four preseason games before the regular season starts in Neepawa on Sept. 19. The first preseason game is an all rookie matchup on Tuesday Sept. 8 at Stride Place against the Virden Oil Capitals. Puck drop is at 7:30pm.
