Sudbury Northern Life
The Kal Tire Sudbury Jr. Wolves will have a different twist to their regular season schedule when they return after the Christmas break.
After hosting the Abitibi Eskimos on Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 8 p.m. at the Garson Arena, the Jr. Wolves will pack their bags for a road trip to Sault St. Marie, Mich. for two league games, which will be part of this year's Showcase event.
The Jr. Wolves will play the Soo Eagles on Saturday, Jan. 10 at the Pullar Stadium at 7 p.m. followed by a match-up against the Blind River Beavers on Sunday, Jan. 11 at 2 p.m. Both games count in the regular season standings. Seven of eight NOJHL teams will take part in the Showcase event.
Several teams within the hockey world have confirmed their attendance. From the National Hockey League, both the Detroit Red Wings and Tampa Bay Lightning will have scouting personnel on hand, as will several Division 1 schools from Michigan, notably Ferris State, Lake Superior State, Michigan State, Michigan Tech and Northern Michigan. Ontario Hockey League scouts, as well as NCAA Division 3 recruiters will also be in attendance.
"This event is a big thing with our players," said Jr. Wolves' Head Coach Dave Clancy in a release. "The boys are really looking forward to playing in the Showcase and having the chance to be identified by higher levels of hockey."
"Once again, I cannot overstate the importance of playing hockey in the NOJHL," said Jr. Wolves president Blaine Smith in the release. "Our players will be scouted and compared to players from the rest of the province for scholarship possibilities.
"In the meantime, our local players get to stay at home, attend their local school, save money and develop their skills in a very competitive league."
The Jr. Wolves have rescheduled a game with the Manitoulin Islanders from Friday, Jan. 9 to Sunday, Mar. 1 at 2 p.m. in Little Current. The Jr. Wolves will also reschedule a road trip to Sault Ste. Marie scheduled for Feb. 13.
