World Juniors: Team Canada wraps up training camp at CFB Petawawa

The IIHF World Junior Championship is just around the corner, with Team Canada gearing up for the tournament in Ottawa. The team has been hard at work at CFB Petawawa, conducting a pre-tournament camp to fine-tune their skills and build team chemistry.

This camp holds a special significance as it mirrors the preparations made by the 2009 Team Canada, which also trained at the base’s Silver Dart Arena before going on to win gold in the tournament. LCol. Nicolas Forsyth, deputy base commander at Garrison Petawawa, expressed his hope for history to repeat itself, saying, “They did win gold after they visited Petawawa 15 years ago, and I hope that we are part of replicating that good luck.”

For many players on Team Canada, this tournament is a homecoming of sorts, with players like Cole Beaudoin and Oliver Bonk hailing from Ottawa. The close ties to the city make the tournament even more special for them. Luca Pinelli, who has spent the last three and a half years in Ottawa, emphasized the sentimental value of playing in his hometown.

The team wrapped up their camp in Petawawa with a mixed squad game with the Petawawa Stags military teams and a skate with local youth players. They also participated in team-building exercises and got a firsthand look at the soldiers’ training, including flying in chinook helicopters.

After an autograph session at the Petawawa Civic Centre, the team headed back to Ottawa to continue their preparations, with their first exhibition game against Switzerland scheduled for Thursday. The players are aiming to add their winning jersey alongside the 2009 squad’s in Petawawa, hoping to make their mark in the tournament.

Overall, the team is excited and motivated to compete in the upcoming IIHF World Junior Championship, drawing inspiration from past successes and the support of their community. As they gear up for the tournament, they are focused on giving their all and aiming for the gold medal.