Hockey Alberta has identified the top 20 U18 female hockey players under its Team Alberta Program. After a week-long provincial evaluation camp from July 1 – 6, 2008, the list was narrowed down from the original 46 athletes to the top 25. The top 25 met Sept. 13 and 14 for the final selection camp before the top 20 were established. (See roster below).
Team training will continue in Edmonton Oct. 10-11, with a practice and an exhibition game against the University of Alberta Pandas on Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. at Clare Drake Arena.
Team Alberta will be competing at the 2008 National Women’s U18 Hockey Championship in Napanee, ON from Nov. 4-8. The competition starts Nov. 5 when Team Alberta takes on Quebec in the first round robin game.
The tournament will feature 18 games over five days, culminating with the gold medal game on Sunday, Nov. 8. The tournament is host to a total of eight teams, including Team Alberta, Ontario Blue, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Quebec, Atlantic, British Columbia and four-time defending champions Ontario Red.
"With the final roster established we look to the final training camp in Edmonton to focus on solidifying our team cohesiveness and game strategy. These players realize the highest standard of play that is expected of them in Napanee and I am confident that we as a coaching staff have prepared them to carry through on these expectations," said Head Coach Howie Draper.
With a disappointing seventh place finish in the 2007 tournament the team looks to re-establish their high standards and make a stronger finish this year.
"I am honoured to be a returning member of Team Alberta. U18 Championship will be a true test of the last few months of hard work and dedication we have given to each other. As a team I know we can improve on last years finish," said Saige Pacholok, defenseman Team Alberta.
For more information on the 2008 National Women’s U18 Hockey Championship being held in Napanee, ON. Please go to www.hockeycanada.ca. |
