The Dryden GM Ice Dogs are well prepared for the start of a series of exhibition games.
It’s a relatively new team this year with only five returning players.
However they have been together and practicing for about two months now.
Veteran Evan Pakkala is back for his third season with the Ice Dogs and will be called up to play a leadership role.
Pakkala believes the long layoff has actually been a blessing in disguise.
“Everyone knows each other before we even step into a game and everyone is comfortable playing with each other. I think it’s been really good for our team. I think we are going to come out super strong.”
Pakkala talks about the 2020-2021 edition of the Dryden GM Ice Dogs.
“It’s a little different than last year. This year I feel like we are a lot tighter as a group. Maybe that was with the time that we’ve got off here just practicing. I feel like everyone is willing to work so much harder for everyone and it’s all around going to be super successful.
You can hear more from Evan Pakkala by visiting the Audio link below.
Forward Max Collette is one of the new faces and he’s excited to get going.
“It’s awesome to be back at it. Doing what we love and getting back into a routine, playing some games, so it’s fun.”
The 19-year-old was recently acquired from the Selkirk Steelers of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League where he played in two games this season.
Collette says his focus for the exhibition games is getting back into the routine, getting the legs under him, and prepare for the start of the regular season.
You can hear more from Max Collette by visiting the Audio link below.
