The sounds of skates carving ice and pucks hitting boards have returned to Whitecap Resources Centre, as the Richardson Pioneer Weyburn Red Wings opened their main training camp Friday morning. A mix of returning veterans and new prospects is on the ice, all looking to start the new season on the right foot.
For 20-year-old forward Ashtyn Shields, who is entering his second season with the team, the feeling around the rink is palpable.
“There's lots of excitement in the air here with all the returning guys and all the guys coming in,” Shields said. “You know, it's good to get back into a routine and be back in the city.”
The returning players are coming off a long playoff run last season that fell just short, with the Red Wings falling to Melfort in the league finals. While the result was disappointing, Shields believes the experience was invaluable for the veteran core.
“Obviously, losing the way we did, it was heartbreaking after the run that we went on,” Shields explained. He noted that the veterans can use that experience to guide the new players. “Us veterans, we know what it takes. We've been there, we've seen a winning team, and we've been a winning team, so we can help share those winning habits with these young guys to try and get there again this year.”
The players at camp are divided into three teams for practices, drills, and evening scrimmages throughout the weekend. According to Shields, splitting up the veterans among the squads is an effective way to build new relationships and team chemistry from day one.
“It's good that we get to meet some younger guys and some guys that are trying to crack their roster,” Shields said. "It really helps, kind of you know, make some friendships and find some chemistry before we get into exhibition.”
The camp will conclude on Monday with the annual Red & White game at 3:00 p.m., where the winning team will be awarded the Eric Calibaba Cup. After a weekend of competing against teammates, Shields is looking forward to finally lining up against a different opponent when the preseason starts next week.