Matt Valley’s team won three of four games in the month of September while outscoring the opposition 22-14.
Valley likes the start but isn’t reading too much into the results.
“One thing we’ve liked is our compete level, and the way the group has bought into playing as a team,” Valley noted. “We’ve shown stretches where we’ve managed the puck well and played with good pace, which are habits we want to continue building on. I like how connected we’ve looked at times, which is impressive this early in the season and speaks to the leadership group, for sure.”
“Like most teams this time of year, consistency is a big focus, buying into the way we want our group to play is huge. There are moments when we’re making things harder on ourselves with turnovers or getting away from our structure and identity, which we will continue to work on throughout the season.”
The North Stars had a busy off season with eight players graduating from Junior ‘A’ hockey and several transactions involving Matthew Bertolin, Lucas Bertolin and Evan Simeoni. Goaltender Morgan Blackwood ended up signing with the Rimouski Oceanic in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL).
Valley notes with success comes subsequent changes, adding “We’re very grateful for everything those players contributed to our organization and wish them all the best in their current and future endeavors. As for the new guys we’ve brought in, we like them too, especially as we’ve started up now and seen what they can do mixed in with the strong returning core.
“There’s an exciting feeling brewing in our organization again this year, it’s fun to be a part of. Last year’s championship doesn’t guarantee anything this season, but the experience our returning personnel has gained from that run has been important in helping set the standard for the new group.”
The month of October sees the North Stars play five games each at the Fort William Gardens and on the road. Valley is especially looking forward to the School Day game against the Fort Frances Lakers on Thursday, October 8th.
“Road trips are an important part of team building, but there’s always something special about playing at home in front of your fans, families, and the community that supports you. Our players are excited to spend more time at the Gardens and really establish ourselves in our own building,” Valley mentioned.
“The school day game will be a great opportunity to connect with young hockey fans and showcase our team in front of a very engaged crowd. We know our supporters bring a lot of energy, and we’re looking forward to having that behind us throughout October.”.
UPCOMING OCTOBER SCHEDULE
Thursday 8th vs. Fort Frances Lakers 11:00 a.m. EDT
Friday 9th vs. Kam River Fighting Walleye
Saturday 10th @ Dryden GM Ice Dogs
Friday 16th @ Kam River Fighting Walleye
Saturday 24th @ Dryden GM Ice Dogs
Sunday 25th vs. Sioux Lookout Bombers
Friday 30th vs. Kam River Fighting Walleye
Saturday 31st vs. Kam River Fighting Walleye
