The Parkland U18 Rangers wrapped up a busy week of information sessions last evening in Swan River. After hosting one earlier this week in Dauphin, Rick Freese and Tyler Carefoot hit the road to get an understanding of what the interest is like in the valley.
Eight players showed up alongside parents. The goal of the sessions was to educate players and parents on what they can expect when they come to training camp. Freese and Carefoot wanted to chat with as many Parkland players as possible.
"I think the parents were very happy that we made the trip and chatted with them," said Freese. "They got a glimpse into what the program looks like. I think it was received very well and they were very happy to see us."
30 players and dozens of parents in all came out between the two sessions in Dauphin and Swan River. For a team that has struggled at times to ice a full roster in the past, numbers like this are certainly a positive for the coaching staff, both of which are from Dauphin.
"We've made a ton of phone calls to a ton of players. We're expecting big numbers at our training camp in August," continued Freese. "I wouldn't be surprised to see 45 to 50 players. I think that's a great thing, healthy competition always helps out a team, especially early in the season."
In case you missed how Tyler and Rick became coaches of the U18 Rangers, well that was announced back in mid-May that they would be joining forces. Tyler ended last season as interim head coach of the program.
"I think we're going to complement each other very well," concluded Freese. "I'm really looking forward to getting the season going and so far, so good."
The U18 Rangers tour will head to Roblin and Russell in the very near future.
