The Airdrie Thunder are getting closer to starting the new season but before that can happen, they will hold their annual evaluation camp. 

The schedule for the Main Camp was released last weekend and will start after Labour Day.

(Photo Courtesy: Airdrie Thunder/Facebook)

Head Coach Derek Stamp explains why they chose to have the camp at this time.

“Going a little bit later, it just gives those players that aren't successful in securing a Junior A spot a little more time and the ability to be at our entire camp instead of trying to come in halfway through.”

This will be Stamp’s second year coaching at the evaluation camp and says not much will change from last year, aside from a couple extra exhibition games.

Stamp says that the offseason so far has been busy but encouraging.

“Starting in June, we were running some ice times on a weekly basis at the request of some of our veterans. It’s actually proved to attract a lot of new interest from potential players. In Junior Hockey, you’re always looking to build your roster and find that balance between age groups.”

As for the evaluation camp, Stamp expects a good turnout this time around.

“Registration is open. We’re getting good traction, we’ve got a fair bit of commitment from our veterans and some other players that are coming back to Calgary to go to school that maybe played in B.C. last year. Overall we think that our numbers will be good.”

The camp registration begins on September 3rd with two days of tryouts before the first preseason game on September 7th against the Three Hills Thrashers.

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