Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Smokies Camp Begins Today

It's finally here. After five months and eleven days the Smoke Eaters hit the ice this afternoon to begin preparations for the 2012-13 BCHL season.

This season's training camp will have a bit of a different twist from years past, in that the coaching staff has added a two-day rookie camp in advance of a three-day main camp beginning on Friday. Nonetheless, Trail's vets have already, or are in the midst of traveling to the West Kootenay. I wouldn't be surprised to see some of them around the rink today.

For a run-down on what to expect from rookie camp and a full listing of ice-times, click here. I hope to have the main camp schedule posted in short order too.

No question today marks a transition from deathly silence to (just about) non-stop action in terms of the on-ice product. A four-day trip to Chase and Merritt next week will cover the majority of the pre-season schedule (the only home date being next Saturday, September 1 against the Cents). The conclusion of the pre-season will see Trail have almost a full week of practice before departing for Chilliwack for the inaugural Save-On Foods BCHL Showcase. I'm sure I'm not alone in saying I can't wait.

Stay tuned to the blog through the week for commentary and audio reaction from players and coaches alike as training camp kicks into high gear.

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