The on-ice product for the Olds Grizzlys should be in good shape heading into the 2011-12 Alberta Junior Hockey League season, according to team president Jim Ross.
Ross made the comments following the team's annual awards banquet on Friday at the Olds College Student Alumni Centre.
Because only two of the team's players finished their junior eligibility last season, Ross said there should be plenty of competition for roster spots when training camp gets underway in August.
“I think there's a lot of good young players that we had this year that really, actually carried us after Christmas and … they're all going to be one year older. You look forward to seeing the young fellows mature and come into their own and be better players,” he said.
“There will be lots of players coming back but it always happens that there's young fellows coming up that we've recruited … so there will be lots of competition for jobs I'm sure, in spite of the fact that there's only two (graduating players), but that's always the fun part of the hockey (is) … they come back a little stronger and a little more ready to play,” he said.
Ross said head coach Kevin Willison did an excellent job in guiding the team during his first year, and said the Grizzlys should be in good position under his leadership for the upcoming season.
“He's had that pro experience and he knows what it takes to win and he's instilled that in the players. Him becoming more familiar with the league and what level we play at is certainly going to be helpful for him,” Ross said.
During the banquet, Spencer Dorowicz was given the nod for the scholastic award, while Brandon Thiessen was given the community player of the year award. The most sportsmanlike award for the Grizzlys went to Jordan Kancsal, while Lucas Grundy was deemed the most dedicated on-ice player. The president's award went to Clay Howe, while Zane Jones received the rookie of the year honour. The top defensive player award went to Bart Moran while Brandon Clowes received the most improved player award. The playoff most valuable player award was given to Dylan Hubbs, while Corbin Karl received the top defenceman award. Leading scorer and regular season MVP honours went to Taylor Bourne.
"There will be lots of players coming back but it always happens that there's young fellows coming up that we've recruited ... so there will be lots of competition for jobs I'm sure."Jim Ross, president, Olds Grizzlys
