Wednesday, April 17, 2013 – The Canmore Eagles Junior A hockey club held their annual “spring camp” last weekend at the Canmore Recreation Centre and Head Coach and General Manager Andrew Milne certainly liked what he saw.
“It was a very competitive camp,” said Milne, who put more than 135 players through a grueling weekend, which included one practice and three exhibition games. “ We had players who came from all over Canada and there were a number of players who certainly caught the eye of our scouting staff and made an impression. It was a very busy weekend and I think they were all very tired by the end of the weekend.”
When asked who surprised him the most, it was local Canmore boy Noah Philp, the little bother of current Eagle Simon Philp, and current WHL Kootenay Ice “Rookie of the Year” Luke Philp. “Noah is only a 98, but he was great over the weekend,” said Milne. “He was in the Top 5 in scoring and played really well.
“On defence Kyle Craddock was a little bit of an unknown coming into camp, but the 97 born Peace River product really impressed the staff with his skating and poise with the puck. Also 17-year-old Jakob Lavoie, who has some previous AJHL experience with the former Saint Albert Steel was very impressive as the camp went on.
“Other players that could possibly add some size and skill to the forward positions include Bryan Huck, Ryley Risling, Jaden Sveinson and Brett Radford.
“All of these players did very well at camp and all have been approached by Eagle management and are discussing possible future opportunities with the Canmore Eagles.”