Almost Time

Happy Labor Day! As the long weekend comes to an end, the excitement builds in the AJHL. While some teams have already begun their preseason schedules, the Oil Barons open their games tomorrow night. With a week of practice over the past week, prospects and veterans alike will be looking forward to competing against other teams. 


What is unique about the preseason schedule for Fort McMurray this season is the fact that none of their games are at Centerfire Place. They won't play a single home game until October 2nd. Action will come fast and furious early on with four games in five days. One would think the prospects will get plenty of looks this week with a small number of roster spots up for grabs at all positions. What spots are up for grabs? No one but the coaching staff knows for sure, but by looking at the returning players, you can make an educated guess. With five returning defencemen, there are probably three spots up for grabs on the back end. You know the team is definitely looking for a back up goalie behind Logan Cunningham. The forward group is a little more murky. If Justin Dumais does return (he was cut last week by the Drummondville Voltigeurs) that would mean the Barons return eight forwards. Who will get the remaining spots is anyone's guess, especially with several players at WHL camps, but you know the competition will be stiff. It all begins tomorrow night in Lac La Biche, when Fort McMurray faces Bonnyville. This broadcaster, just like a lot of fans, is thrilled to see the action on the ice for another year.

Upcoming Games:
Tuesday, September 2nd- vs Bonnyville in Lac La Biche
Thursday, September 4th- @ Olds
Friday, September 5th- @ Devon
Saturday, September 6th- @ Devon

Games can be heard here.

Side Notes:

This past week was a busy one in terms of interviews. It was great to catch up with some familiar faces. The voice of the Oil Kings, Mat Barrett and I caught up with each other. We both worked together in the SJHL when I was with the Yorkton Terriers and Mat was with the Melfort Mustangs. It was also three years since I last talked with past Terriers captain, Logan Cyca. Good to see he's thriving in North Dakota. Plus a couple of fun guests for Oil Barons This Week, which includes a local kid on the verge of making the NHL on a full time basis, and an alumni from the Barons national championship team. Stay tuned!

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