Even without scouts, next level remains top of mind for Cariboo Hockey

Dec 16, 2020 | 9:44 AM

PRINCE GEORGE – Even given the restrictions on playing, the Cariboo Cougars don’t think it’s too late for many of their players to make an impression on the Major Junior and Junior A ranks, even without scouts inside their arenas.

“If you look at it from the WHL and the Junior A side, they need to know what’s coming up,” said Trevor Sprague, Cariboo Cougars General Manager. “They’re not going to get their 20-year olds back next year, or their 19 year olds. They need to fill spots and they need to know about the players. Because scouts can’t come into the arena, the GM’s and the coaches are doing a bigger job to make sure they know what’s coming up for their lineups over the next year.”

U18 Assistant Coach RJay Berra admits being scene was much easier when restrictions allowed for them to put on a Cohort Cup.

“There was scouts allowed in the building and our games go onto a program where scouts can access it there as well,” said Berra. “As of right now, it’s really just working to try to keep them motivated and keep them understanding that everyone is in the same boat, they’re not losing out. If anything, we’re lucky to be on the ice right now up here.”

And even with the restrictions, there comes some advantages, but the motivation remains the same.

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“To be honest with you, right now, the motivation is to have fun,” says Berra. “These guys can’t become stale and stagnant with what they’re doing. They need to enjoy the game whether it’s on an outdoor rink or on the ice with us. We’re doing what we can to simulate gameplay through these very limited drills we’re allowed to do, and put them in situations where they’re going to get quicker and stronger, and be able to buy more time with the puck; but I think maybe the only pro is you can spend a little bit more time on your individual game.”

Without competitive games being played, the coaches and management for the Cariboo Cougars are using their contacts to get these players seen. But as Sprague says, at the end of the day, it’s the players work ethic that will set them apart.

“They just have to have the right mindset to come here and perform at practice, and ultimately make sure their coach and staff are happy with their performance because obviously we’re not sugarcoating things.”

While scouts are currently unable to see these young players first-hand, and managers and coaches are pushing now more than ever to get these players noticed, the pipeline between the Cariboo Cougars and the Prince George Cougars, as well as the Spruce Kings, is much stronger. Potentially leading to some more local talent dawning their hometown threads at the next level.

by Ethan Ready

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Even without scouts, next level remains top of mind for Cariboo Hockey

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