Canes rookies soaking in camp

By Lethbridge Herald on August 30, 2024.

Herald Photo by Justin Seward Tyden Lafournaise battles for the loose puck with Hayden Iron Shirt during Thursday's scrimmage at training camp.

Rookies are mixed in with returning players at Lethbridge Hurricanes training camp this week and are just wanting to soak  in  the experience  and improve their games for the future.

Tyden Lafournaise was the Canes highest draft pick this past year at the Prospects Draft at 13th overall  and got his first taste of camp Thursday morning.

“It’s obviously a lot faster than I’m used to,” he said.

Lafournaise saw the first skate as a way of getting the nerves out and adjusting to the speed.

“Now from here on out just kind of give it all (you’ve)  got and show everyone what  (you’ve) got, said Lafournaise.

Lafournaise says it’s huge, when asked about the skills gap compared to where he was playing before.

“That jump’s always a big jump, but just trying my best to adapt and do what I can to just fit in with everyone,” said Lafournaise.

Lafournaise spoke about being mixed in the older guys at camp with the different format.

“I really like the new format that they brought, it’s going to be super competitive and the games will be really high pace and fun,” said Lafournaise.

Lafournaise will lace up the skates with the Dunmore-based South Alberta Hockey Academy’s 18 Prep team this season.

“Just development and  just getting ready for that major junior level,” said Lafournaise.

The Winnipeg product amassed 126 points (60 goals, 66 assists) with the Winnipeg Bruins U15 AAA team last season.

Defencemen Reid Soper was picked by the Candes at 32nd overall and came into first WHL camp feeling excited.

“I’ve been expecting to have to face a high level of hockey and I can’t wait to see how I put up with it (and) can’t wait to see how I play,” said Soper.

His hope is that camp will help him when he goes back to the U18 level.

“I think this will be a good stepping stone and this will help me be more prepared for my upcoming season,” said Soper.

Cohen Pentney and Leif Olson were the other two top prospects signed from this year’s draft.

Canes associate head coach Matt Anholt sees the rookies getting more practices with coaches at camp.

“You start learning how we (coaches) talk, and how quick practices are, and the pace and you learn some skill and development stuff while you’re here. It’s only going to multiply your development when you go back to your U18 team,” said Anholt.