The Bonnyville Jr. A Pontiacs provided up and coming players with an opportunity for positive growth and experience over the weekend.
The 2018 Spring Identification Camp started on Friday, May 4, at the Bonnyville and District Centennial Centre.
“This whole weekend was all about habits and developing skills and understanding the game,” said Larry Draper, assistant general manager and associate coach for the Pontiacs.
The camp had players from across the province focus on personal development through on-ice and off-ice sessions.
“It was great. I felt it developed my game a little bit, and it was a great experience as I met a lot of new people and gained some friends,” expressed Emmett Croteau, one of the athletes who attended the camp.
Last season, Croteau played for Lakeland Panthers. He said, the coaches at the camp gave him some insight on where he needs to improve in order to achieve his goal of getting to the next level in hockey.
But, it wasn’t all about the ins and outs of the sport, it was about making a connection with players, Draper said.
“What we’re trying to do is connect with each player as people. It’s so important. Positive high-fives, pat on the back, and a hand on shoulders.”
He added, “We wanted to interact with the players and establish relationships with these guys through our positive feedback.”
The camp had 120 players divided into six teams. Each team had one practice, one on-ice session, a goal tender session, and three games. Coaches then gave a personal development presentation.
“Afterwards, we talked to the coaches, who showed us where we were, our strengths and what we need to work on,” said Croteau.
“We’re able to do a great job of working with them and giving them individual attention. That’s why now Bonnyville is becoming a place of choice for young hockey players,” Draper added.
