It's been a dream come true for one local hockey player.
James Young was heading up camping when he heard the news of a Jr. B team coming to his hometown.
“I never thought they'd have a Jr. B team here in Pelham. It was a big shock to my entire family,” Young stated. “The opportunity to represent Pelham on the ice was too good to pass up so I quickly let them know I wanted to be a part of the organization.”
The 16-year-old begins his first Jr. B training camp experience later this month and will provide much needed size to the Pirates. That, added with the ability to battle in corners and do the dirty work, were main factors Pirates coaching staff wanted him to sign after his season with the Southern Tier Admirals. There, he played in 39 games, tallying 27 points.
“I've been playing together with (Admirals coach) Dan Timmins for eight years now, so that's really helped with my development. He's been able to teach me a lot and I look forward to learning even more from Wes (Wolfe).”
While Young may not need motivation for this upcoming season, watching eight of his teammates become Ontario Hockey League draftees last April opened his eyes to how far his game can grow.
“Watching those who got drafted. Watching them develop over the years. It's where I want to be and hopefully I can make the jump and continue to succeed here with the Pirates.”
Young will make his first appearance at the Pelham Arena on Aug. 19 as the Pelham Pirates open training camp. Pirates will also be holding their annual Pirates Cup Exhibition Tournament later in the week as the GOJHL regular season quickly approaches.
