The Battlefords North Stars saw their season come to an end this past weekend, but preparations have already begun for next year.
The coaching staff of Kevin Hasselberg and Braeden Johnson hosted the North Stars Prospects Camp at the Civic Centre, weaving through their hectic playoff schedule.
More than 30 prospects took to the ice, some of which had already suited up for the Battlefords this season. AAA Stars MVP Owen Lamb was in attendance, the forward who led the midget Stars in goals and also played a role in the North Stars playoff run. Logan Nachtegaele’s younger brother, Jayden, was also part of the camp. Other players such as Tysen Smith, a forward who had tremendous success in Junior B, and who also suited up for the black and white this season took part in the practice. Austin Shumanski and goaltender Joel Gryzbowski rounded off the players who have Junior A experience.
Friday started off with a brief meeting between coach Hasselberg and the players, going over the agenda for the day and opening drills. Hasselberg started with a quick one-touch, neutral zone drill, making sure the skaters had momentum entering the offensive zone. He talked the importance of hockey sense and communication throughout the practice as well. The skaters later did a modified version of the drill, breaking into the zone on a two-on-none against a goaltender, and later a three-on-none. It was a quick-paced day that saw enthusiasm, talent and a bright future for the North Stars.
Saturday was filled with scrimmages between team black and white, followed by an information session and lunch. Sunday was much of the same, with the two teams going head-to-head once again.
From the ice to the information session, the messages were clear. “Never whine, complain or make excuses, own your mistakes,” the prospects camp program read. “Protect the team, be early and be prepared.”
The Battlefords North Stars recently were eliminated from postseason contention by the Flin Flon Bombers after a historic season that saw them take home the SJHL regular season crown. They finished the year with a record of 43-11-2-2.
