The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
The Flin Flon Junior Bombers held their Spring Camp in Saskatoon April 15-17. A total of 76 skaters battled it out during the three-day camp, hoping to impress the Bomber coaching staff and scouts to earn an invite to Main Camp in the fall. "In general, we were very happy with the overall level at camp," said coach and general manager Ryan Hoffman. "We had a good local turnout, with over 10 local players. Steven Robinson really impressed us. He'll be ready to play in our league a year from now as a 17-year-old. We were also happy with the performances of our Midget 'AA' Flin Flon kids, and we're looking at bringing them back to Main Camp." There were also a couple of unknowns from Alberta who attended camp and really impressed the coaches, but overall, Hoffman said that the best players in camp were the ones that the organization has on their protected list and has been following for some time. "Our list players were the best players in camp," he said. "We're very happy with how those guys showed, and how they project going forward." One list player to watch for in Main Camp is Keelen Cook, a 6', 210 lb who can play forward and defence. "He's very tough, and an excellent skater," said Hoffman. He's committed to coming aboard. He will be a real good versatile two-way guy for us." In net, there were a couple of out-of-province players that Hoffman was impressed with. Both will be invited to compete for a spot at Main Camp. Hoffman said that cards from Hockey Canada could arrive any day now, and anticipates getting some kids signed as soon as possible. With the level of talent at the Spring Camp, Hoffman and his support crew are looking ahead to a competitive Main Camp in the fall. Approximately one third of the players from the Saskatoon camp will be invited to Main Camp in Flin Flon. The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League will be holding meetings during the Royal Bank Cup in Weyburn next month to discuss the upcoming season. Discussion topics will include setting the number of games and playoff format for 2005/06, as well as setting the opening date for main camps.