The journey to the start of the regular season is well underway for the Parkland Midget Rangers.
After training camp in late August and several practices since the Rangers still, have lots of extra players on their roster as they look to trim that down leading into late this month.
"We'll have a few more players back by early next week so that'll allow us to see a few more players," said Arnie Caplan, Head Coach. "After we play Yorkton next week, the plan is to drop our numbers a little bit more. That will give us a more workable number heading into the preseason tournament in Souris."
Earlier this week, the Rangers played their first preseason game against Yorkton and fell in that game 5-1. The team then hit the ice yesterday for a practice which welcomed a few new players from the Norman region. With just over 20 days until the Rangers play their home opener, Arnie sees lots of room for improvement.
"I don't think you can ever be pleased," said Caplan. "In this region, the success rate has been low as far as having a winning percentage. It's not easy because we're dealing with numbers. We're always looking at ways to improve this hockey club. I think there's a long way to go, and a lot of work to be done."
Despite losing that game earlier this week 5-1, Arnie definitely does see some bright spots as the team progresses through the preseason.
"Based on what I've seen, we're definitely capable of having a very good goaltending tandem," added Caplan. "I also think we have the capabilities of having a strong defensive core. Offensively, I don't think we have too many natural scorers, but we do have some gritty hardworking players."
Whenever the team hits the ice, Arnie urges the players to do a couple things as they look to crack the main roster.
"I want all of the players to bring to the table what they do best," said Caplan. "If they specialize in being a checker, they need to do that very well. And, of course, the compete level. It has to be there for 60 minutes each time out."
The Rangers hit the ice on Wednesday in game action when they welcome the Yorkton Rawtec Maulers to Credit Union Place. Puck drop is set for 7:30.
