Newly-name Cochrane Generals captain James Quaife says they're ready and hope to kick off the season with two wins this weekend but will take the season one game at a time.
The Gens have named their team leadership in advance of their season opener tonight in Airdrie against the Thunder.
"It's exciting," says Quaife. "Last year, I was an 'A' and I'm hoping to step up into the role of leading the group. There's a lot of new young guys, so I'm just hoping to give them guidance this year and hoping we'll make a bit better of a run this season."
The Cochrane player came to the Gen two seasons ago after a year of junior hockey in British Columbia. He was a Bow Valley Timberwolf and played triple A hockey with both the AC Avalanche and Airdrie CFR Bisons.
Outgoing captain Tristan Ripplinger had a say in who would be his successor.
"I think James is the perfect fit for this team," says Ripplinger, who was at practice last night helping the team prepare for tonight. "He's been a leader in his career as a General and I think he's really got a lot of respect from the room. I know players look up to him on and off the ice. He's a great skills guy and I just think he's an all-around great guy and a perfect fit for Cochrane."
Diago Coelho and Brendan Thubron are the alternate captains, and a third 'A' will be split between Ethan Matiece and Zach Wilkins. Wilkins will wear it on the road, and Matiece at home.
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Saturday night the Gens are in Coaldale to face the run-and-gun Copperheads.
The first six games of the season are on the road, and we won't see them here until Oct. 11 against the High River Flyers.
"I don't mind the six games on the road," says Gens head coach Derek Bell. "I think it's a great time for all of us to bond, to get to know one another as we're travelling. I mean, we're not just coming to the rink and then scattering; they're going to be on the bus together, singing, laughing and having a good time."