The Bearcats Algoma is a Canadian junior ice hockey team based in Thessalon, Ontario. The team was founded in 2017 and has since then established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League (NOJHL). In this article, we will take a closer look at the team’s history, achievements, players, and future prospects.
History of the Bearcats Algoma
The Bearcats Algoma was founded in 2017 as an expansion team in the NOJHL. The team was created to provide young hockey players in the Algoma region with an opportunity to play at a high level and develop their skills. The team’s first season was a challenging one, as they struggled to find their footing in a highly competitive league. However, the team showed great resilience and determination, and they ended up finishing the season with a respectable record of 14 wins, 28 losses, and 2 overtime losses.
In their second season, the Bearcats Algoma continued to improve, finishing with a record of 18 wins, 24 losses, and 4 overtime losses. The team’s success was due in large part to the outstanding play of their goaltender, Brandon Gordon, who was named the NOJHL’s Goaltender of the Year. The team also had several other standout players, including forward Max Khull, who led the team in scoring with 43 points.
Team Achievements
Despite being a relatively new team in the NOJHL, the Bearcats Algoma have already achieved several notable accomplishments. In their first season, the team made it to the playoffs, where they were eliminated in the first round by the Soo Thunderbirds. In their second season, the team once again made it to the playoffs, this time advancing to the second round before being eliminated by the Blind River Beavers.
In addition to their playoff appearances, the Bearcats Algoma have also had several players recognized for their outstanding play. In addition to Brandon Gordon’s Goaltender of the Year award, the team has had several players named to the NOJHL’s All-Rookie Team and All-Star Team. These achievements are a testament to the team’s commitment to developing young talent and building a winning culture.
Key Players
The Bearcats Algoma have had several standout players over the years, including Brandon Gordon and Max Khull, who were mentioned earlier. However, there are several other players who have played key roles in the team’s success. One of these players is forward Ryan Vendramin, who led the team in scoring in the 2019-2020 season with 54 points. Vendramin is a skilled playmaker who has a knack for finding his teammates in scoring positions.
Another key player for the Bearcats Algoma is defenseman Tyler Dunbar. Dunbar is a physical presence on the ice and is known for his hard-hitting style of play. He is also a skilled puck-mover and has a powerful shot from the point. Dunbar’s leadership and toughness make him a valuable asset to the team both on and off the ice.
Future Prospects
The future looks bright for the Bearcats Algoma, as the team continues to develop young talent and build a winning culture. The team’s coaching staff, led by head coach Jordan Smith, has done an excellent job of identifying and developing young players who have the potential to become impact players at the junior level and beyond.
One player to keep an eye on in the coming years is forward Owen Shier. Shier is a highly skilled player who has already shown flashes of brilliance in his young career. He has a quick release and a deadly accurate shot, and he is not afraid to go to the dirty areas of the ice to score goals. With continued development, Shier has the potential to become a top player in the NOJHL and beyond.
Conclusion
The Bearcats Algoma may be a relatively new team in the NOJHL, but they have already established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. The team’s commitment to developing young talent and building a winning culture has paid off in the form of playoff appearances and individual awards for their players. With a talented roster and a coaching staff that is dedicated to success, the future looks bright for the Bearcats Algoma.
