When Simcoe County and Muskoka moved into the red (control) zone Monday, the Orillia Terriers Jr. C hockey club had to put its exhibition games with the Alliston Hornets on hold.
Since November, the Terriers have played the Hornets in six games that were modified under the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit’s COVID-19 regulations. Although the Terriers were only able to manage one win, each game was close and left head coach Dallyn Telford believing his team had all the tools needed to capture a Schmalz Cup.
“Alliston has been the top dog for over a decade and I think we are starting to develop the reputation that we aren’t far behind,” Telford said.
“It’s unfortunate that we haven’t been able to play in our normal league this year, because I think this is the best team we’ve had in Orillia, on the ice and off the ice. We have a pretty cohesive unit.”
Although future meetings with the Hornets are on hold, the games were invaluable for the younger players on the team, Telford said.
“It was a chance for the younger guys to see how the intensity level and compete level has to come up in junior hockey, and I think they did a really good job,” he said.
The Provincial Junior Hockey League hasn’t cancelled the 2020-21 season. The goal is to start the season Feb. 1, which is typically when playoffs begin. The Terriers remain hopeful they will be able to take the ice this year and compete for the Schmalz Cup, as their championship window may be small.
“Unfortunately, I think there are a lot of kids on our team who will make the jump to Junior A next year, which is tough, but at the same time it’s great,” Telford said.
“It’s our job to make sure these young kids get there. It’s kind of a catch-22.”
The Terriers also have two players who have hopes of suiting up overseas next season to play professional hockey.
While the Terriers wait to hear if they will be able to play games in the new year, they will continue practising in groups of 10 to work on skills development, puck handling, shooting and fitness.
“It’s important. There are a lot of guys on our team who want to get to the next level, so we have to stay on the ice,” Telford said.
“We are going to keep a positive outlook. If we are able to get back to playing games, then that will be great. If it doesn’t happen, then we will continue the path we are on and keep developing the kids as much as we can.”
