It was a rollercoaster ride of emotions around the Battlefords North Stars on the weekend, as they held their annual training camp at the Civic Centre.
Of the nearly 50 players in camp and the coaches the biggest task Friday was to handle the shock of learning a player was killed on his way to camp. After learning of the heart-wrenching news, the players had to tie up their runners for fitness testing and eventually hit the ice with hopes of making the team.
After two scrimmage sessions, practices and an exhibition game on the weekend, the North Stars still have 38 players around hoping to make the team. The younger players were registered in school and many of them played in the exhibition game in Wainwright, Alta. against the Lloydminster Bobcats of the Alberta Junior Hockey League.
Lloydminster won the game 5-3, but the effort put forward by the younger players has made decision difficult for North Stars head coach and general manager Kevin Hasselberg and his staff.
The veterans also looked good at camp with some players in great shape and looked ready to start the season today. Not at camp were defenceman Brody Luhning and Connor Creech, but don't be alarmed, those veterans had other commitments and will join the North Stars soon.
The North Stars will continue to skate this week and prepare for their next exhibition action, which is Friday in Melfort.
