An early winning streak has players and fans excited for this hockey season.
by Roger Klein // Video by Roger Klein
It’s easy to feel the excitement at the Eddie Bush arena when the Collingwood Blues play at home. Head coach Andrew Campoli says the hometown crowd is second-to-none in the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL).
“There is something different in Collingwood, there is a buzz that hasn’t been created in junior hockey in quite some time,” says Campoli.
The Blues started the season with an extended winning streak and continue to be one of the top teams in the country. Team Captain Cameron Garvey says the Blues have momentum.
“We’ve got serious goals this year and we’ve got a really good shot to win the championship,” Garvey says.
The Blues took an early lead in their recent game against the Markham Royals and went on to win 6-1. Garvey feels that there are several factors contributing to the team’s success.
“I think everybody is buying in, everybody’s knowing their role, playing their role and sticking to the systems and creating that family in our locker room,” says Garvey.
The Ontario Junior Hockey League is a place where young, up-and-coming players can gain experience and hone their skills before heading on to the OHL. But the Collingwood Blues are setting their goals somewhere else when it comes to player development.
“What our program focuses on is pushing guys to the NCAA because it allows them to play four years of school and get an education and then continue their career,” says coach Campoli.
Cameron Eke is one of several Blues players who already have a commitment from an American school, Colgate University.
While players focus on the road ahead they are building respect and admiration among local fans. The number of people attending home games continues to grow.
Collingwood Blues board chair Terry Geddes says the team provides great hockey and family entertainment.
“It’s just a really fun place to be on a Friday night or Saturday afternoon, you won’t find anything better,” he says.
The Blues are on the road until November 25th, when they will face-off against the Georgetown Raiders at Collingwood’s Eddie Bush Arena. Tickets are $15 at Ticket Pro.
