The Estevan Bruins say they will be prepared for the start of the 2020-21 Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) season, whenever it ultimately begins.
Head coach and general manager Jason Tatarnic, with the approval of the Estevan Bruins Executive, has announced that the team will be holding an extended training camp (ETC) with a select group of players ahead of the 2020-21 season, beginning with regular practices on Sept. 8 at Affinity Place.
The Bruins camp will adhere to the current restrictions in place by the Saskatchewan Health Authority which requires less than 50 people involved in the camp. A total of 32 players will be skating with the club during the ETC along with Tatarnic, assistant coaches Phil Fife and Aren Miller, trainer and strength coach Dylan Lafrentz, and other off-ice volunteers and staff members.
Players will take part in daily practices, off-ice training in the weight room, and various other team activities. The club will also look to get the players involved in community events and activities during the ETC as much as possible, keeping COVID-19 restrictions in mind and ensuring safety for both the Bruins organization and the general public.
American forward Isaiah Thomas, who is entering his final season of junior hockey, has opted to play in Texas this season. Two other American-born forwards, Dain Sardelli and Tyler Savage, can’t join the team due to border issues.
Meanwhile, American forward Caleb Petrie and Dayton Deics are able to be with the Bruins this year because they have dual citizenship.
While Affinity Place will not be closed to the public during the Bruins ETC, the public is asked to respect the safety procedures in place by the City of Estevan and the Government of Saskatchewan. Groups of people watching practice is not permitted as the concourse area needs to be accessible for users of the Frehlick Family Walking Track.
There can be no interaction with the players during practice times and off-ice training in the weight room.
At this time, the SJHL and Saskatchewan Health Authority are still working on a definitive start date for the 2020-21 season, including attendance numbers and other game day restrictions. The Mercury will have an update will be provided as soon as it’s available.
Season tickets for the Estevan Bruins 2020-21 season remain on sale and can be purchased at the Bruins office in Affinity Place.
