AMHERST – The Amherst Colts are back again this year. This time, the team is based out of Amherst. General Manger of the team, Grove Sutton, hopes they can use their new location to their advantage.
“We’ve been able to get some players out of Mount Allison University,” said Sutton. “That was one of the reasons we wanted play out of Amherst because the facilities here are closer to Sackville and we’re able to import more players from out of province. We managed to get some kids on the team who are from Ontario and out West.”
Sutton said their chances to perform better in the playoffs may have improved this year due to a few surprises.
“We had a few kids show up (to our camp) that we didn’t know would come and I think they’re definitely going to help out (the team),” he said. “I think we have improved our team in all areas but we are still looking to improve our defense. Our goal this year is to be stronger.”
One of this year’s newer players is Kaelan LeBlanc from Vancouver, B.C., a Mount Allison student the team was able to bring in from out of province.
“I started out in the Ramblers camp,” said LeBlanc. “It’s great because this gives me a little more experience to get into school, ease into it while still playing hockey. I can still move up later on but this way, it allows me to still have a good time.”
The Colts will be taking on the Fundy Phantoms in their season opener on Sunday. With the game fast approaching, LeBlanc said he has his game day strategy already worked out.
“I’m going to get a lot of rest and relax a lot during the day. I’m going to have a couple of naps Sunday morning then come out to the game and have a good time, have as much fun as I can.”
jturner@amherstdaily.com
