The anticipation for the coming hockey season is building, as 66 aspiring young players attended the Norman Northstars hockey tryouts from August 23rd to 25th. These dedicated players traveled from various communities in the North, including Rankin inlet, Arviat of Nunavut, Norway House, Cross Lake, The Pas, Flin Flon, OCN, Churchill, and Gilliam, in pursuit of joining the Northstars team.
Head Coach Justin Valentino expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, citing the impressive turnout at the tryouts as a promising sign for the team's success. He extended his gratitude to all the players and young athletes in the North who participated in the two-week hockey school, acknowledging the immense support that contributed to the players' preparedness and fitness for the tryouts.
“We’re happy with our squad this year” Said Valentino, “And with our coaching staff we have everybody returning from last year so the familiarity between our coaches and the returning players as well as the new addition to the young players we got with speed and skill I think it’s going to make an exciting new season for the Norman Northstars”
With the tryouts concluded and the roster finalized, the focus now shifts to the Major Jr. and Jr. A Camps. Coach Valentino emphasized the importance of connecting with both returning players and new recruits during this transitional period.
Looking ahead, the Northstars are gearing up for a tough competition against the Thistles on September 28th. Before the season kicks off, the team is scheduled to engage in rigorous training, comprising 16 practices, 8 workouts, and five team-building exercises.
Reflecting on his second year as Head Coach, Valentino shared his deep-rooted connection to the Northstar Organization, highlighting his family's legacy within the team.
“The Northstar Organization has been a huge part of my life and my families life” he said, “My Dad was the equipment manager for the for a long time. My younger brother, my middle brother and myself all played for the Norman Northstars and now it’s great to be back and involved in the program and to give back to the community. When your done playing your next best thing is coaching to stay involved in it”
His personal history with the program and his passion for coaching are evident as he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to give back to the community that has played such a significant role in his life.
As the Norman Northstars prepare for an exhilarating season, Justin Valentino's dedication and commitment to both the sport and the community continue to shine through, setting the stage for an exciting chapter in the team's journey.
