Canada’s world junior returnees battling for jobs: ‘No freebies’
Brayden Yager received a special visit this fall from Hockey Canada player development coach Scott Walker. With the disappointing fifth-place finish at the previous year’s world junior hockey championship still fresh in their minds, the focus for Yager and his teammates was clear – nothing is guaranteed, and everything must be earned.
As one of Canada’s six returning players from the 2024 tournament in Sweden, Yager, along with his fellow veterans, understood that there were no free passes this time around. Selection camp was in full swing at TD Place, and the message from the coaching staff was loud and clear – this team was not about building an all-star lineup, but rather a cohesive unit where every player had a role to play.
Despite the bitter taste of last year’s early exit against Czechia, the returning players knew they would have to fight for their spots on the roster. Star defenseman Oliver Bonk, also a returnee, emphasized the need for better preparation and readiness from the team this time around.
Yager, along with Tanner Molendyk, Bonk, and Easton Cowan, seemed to have secured their spots on the 2025 team, pending any injuries. The coaching staff made it clear that every player had to prove themselves and show that they deserved a spot on the roster.
For newcomers like goaltender Scott Ratzlaff and forwards Carson Rehkopf and Matthew Wood, the pressure was on to demonstrate their worth and earn their place on the team. With practices and exhibition games against Canadian university all-stars on the agenda, there was little room for error or complacency.
Head coach Dave Cameron reiterated that making the team would not be easy, and every player had to make their case convincingly. The returning players, still haunted by last year’s disappointing performance, were eager to show that they were a more competitive and cohesive unit this time around.
As the team prepared for the upcoming tournament on home soil, the focus was on leaving last year’s disappointments behind and looking ahead to a fresh start. With the goal of going for gold in mind, Yager and his teammates were determined to make the most of their second chance.
Despite some challenges with travel and injuries during training camp, the team remained focused and determined to come together as a strong unit. With a mix of returning players and new faces vying for a spot on the roster, the competition was fierce but friendly, with the goal of representing Canada on the world stage driving them forward.
