Being a part of the community is an important aspect of any junior hockey program and definitely contributes to its success.
Which is why it was great to see an increase in numbers for the Ponoka Stampeders Junior B Hockey Club’s second annual minor hockey camp held last week.
Close to 100 players ranging from atom to midget participated in the camp that ran from Sept. 5 to 9 at the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex.
New Stamps head coach Matt Williams, along with assistant coaches and many of the players that will make up the club’s roster this season, were on the ice for the three sessions each day, running the participants through a variety of drills designed to improve skills as well as have some fun.
“I think the kids were having a lot of fun, and I know myself and the rest of the team were,” Williams said.
“The camp was a chance for the community to get to know the team and we did have a lot of players out helping. I know we all had a blast and the kids worked hard and hopefully learned a few things.”
Williams added his hope that these kids will come out to some games this season as a result.
As for the Stamps, Williams wasn’t tipping his hand on his thoughts regarding the club’s upcoming season.
Although staying positive, his focus for the moment remains on evaluation and teaching his players systems as the regular season draws closer.
“There was a need for a change in atmosphere and the players definitely seem to appreciate this and want things to be different,” Williams said. “And so far so good.”
Hoof prints - The Stamps pre-season play continues tonight (Sept. 13, 7 p.m.) with a home date against Stettler, then two on the road Sept. 17 in Wetaskwin and Sept. 19 in Blackfalds. The team’s home opener is Sept. 24 at 3 p.m. versus Red Deer.
