When the Calendar reaches mid-August it’s time to think school supplies, and hockey.
Actually, the Truro Bearcats got busy shortly after the closure of last season, and for the
second consecutive off-season kicked off a coach search.
By late May the organization named Jon Greenwood the Head Coach, the fifth to hold those
reins since the team returned to the junior ranks in 1997.
The Cole Harbour native brings a rich coaching background to the club, having U18
experience with Halifax McDonalds and Cole Harbour Wolfpack, QMJHL experience with
seven years as Assistant Coach with the Mooseheads, and the last three seasons in that capacity
with the St. Mary’s University Program.
Ryan Porter returns for his second season as Assistant Coach, and a second Assistant is
expected to be named within days.
Jamie Barbour continues in his position as General Manager. He’s been busy and is always
on the lookout for talent.
From all reports the U18 Draft in June was a good one for the Bearcats. In total twelve
players were drafted, including two territorials, Matthew Merryweather (Hilden) and Elliott
Mullen (Shortt’s Lake).
When last season concluded, there were fifteen Bearcats eligible to return. That number was
reduced when Lucas Canning was traded to Pictou County and Jake Beardsmore to Valley. A
third twenty-year-old, Jarrett Todd, elected to enroll at the Royal Military College.
The returnees, unfortunately, witnessed the franchise’s first season in twenty-seven years with
no post season play. They will be on a mission.
Acquiring seasoned veterans is high on the list of priorities, and it is being addressed. Things
are falling into place.
Season tickets for current holders will go on sale August 19th . New season ticket holders can
purchase theirs at the RECC beginning August 26th .
A few dates to keep marked on your calendar: Training Camp opens Sunday, August 25th; the
Bearcats open on the road on Friday, September 13th and have their Home Opener Saturday,
September 14th.