Minor hockey teams from all over Alberta are competing for the title of provincial champions. One of those teams is representing Drumheller in the provincial arena.
The Tier 3 Midget Raptors, which have been having a strong season thus far, are getting ready to enter the second round of provincials, starting tomorrow.
Their opponents are their division rivals from Canmore, who currently are in first place of the Central Alberta Hockey League Tier 3 Midget division.
The Raptors breezed through the first round, but are expecting more resistance from Canmore.
“I don’t think we can compare round 1 to 2, because it’s going to be a lot more difficult. We’ve played them before and they’re a difficult team to beat. So far, we’ve lost one and tied one against them and they’re the top team in our league,” said Nick Schinnour, assistant coach for the Raptors.
The Raptors are a formidable force on the ice, but are often fighting against both their opponents and the penalty box.
“I think if we stay out of the penalty box, we’d have an excellent team. The penalties are hurting us pretty bad. You can’t play short-handed all game,” said Schinnour. “They’re all pretty committed hockey players and want to win. They’re passionate at what they do and show it on the ice.”
Provincial games are decided by who can score the most goals in two games. The first game will take place tonight in the Drumheller Memorial Arena at 7:15 p.m. The second game will be in Canmore.
“They’re playing really well together now. It’s going to be a rough, tough game for sure. They’re a really good team,” said Schinnour. “We can skate with them and if we can stay out of the box, we can win it for sure.”
