9:00 am seems like a pretty reasonable time to be up and already on with your day. As I headed down to the rink to check in with the team however, it was clear that a few of the boys had just rolled out of bed. The dressing room was a little quiet at first, but the number of bodies in the room increased, so too did the volume. Chatter about this and that, a little playful bantering, and laughter quickly filled the air. When faced with the prospect of having their pictures taken however, let’s just say no one was too quick to volunteer. Having no immediate takers, veteran players Stephen Egan and Cole Zimmerman got a little shot from me about getting theirs snapped. A good-natured chuckle and headlock ensued, eliciting the good nature of these two young men. Coming into a two game at-home weekend, Egan stated that he’s pretty excited. “It’s gonna be a good game – fast hockey.” In the regular season 2013/2014 Egan saw 45 games with the Wranglers, collecting 10 points. When asked about Egan’s ability as a player, Coach Duner replies, “I don’t have to tell anybody how hard Stephen Egan works. He just goes.” Wearing #4 this season, Egan clearly plays with heart. Zimmerman (43 games last regular season, 15 points) also commented on the speed of the team when asked how things are shaping up this year. “The boys are a little different this year. We’ve got a lot more feet speed and a couple of big bodies.” “I like Zimmerman’s skill,” Duner comments when giving me a rundown on this year’s roster. Zimmerman returns to the Wranglers as a vet this season after lighting it up in the playoffs against Chase last spring, giving fans something to look forward to seeing again this season. With 3 points in 4 games already, #27 has definitely got our attention. Terrace import Austin Turner is enjoying his time as a Wrangler so far. “[There are] Some good guys here. It’s been a good experience so far. The pace of hockey is a bit faster than I’m used to, but I’m getting used to it.” Playing in the forward position, Turner sports number 14 on his jersey. A recent acquisition to the team, Brett Harris returns to his 100 Mile roots after playing for the Nipiwin Hawks. “I’m happy to be back… I missed 100 Mile, it’s a good community.” Harris played 49 games in the regular season with the Hawks last year and earned 13 points. Harris can be found with 19 across his shoulders. Of the returning Wranglers Duner says, “The character and work ethic of these kids is outstanding. It’s been exciting to start the season with these guys.” Last season the team had only two veteran players, Jaiden Ward and Kevin Raimundo. This season however, the team has 15 veteran players, including 8 that are returning Wranglers. “We’ve still got a long way to go, but this is a team the community can be proud of right now, and hopefully throughout the year.”
Posted on: Sat, 27 Sep 2014 01:00:15 +0000
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