More exhibition action for Wolverines as regular season approaches

The Whitecourt Wolverines are buzzing along through the pre-season, shaping up their lines, and putting in hard work on the ice. On Tuesday, September 3, the Wolverines hosted the Grande Prairie Storm for their second home game of exhibition play. The game was rougher than the previous match against the Sherwood Park Crusaders at the end of August with harder hits and a few spats. In the second, a blown whistle in the defensive end led to a scrap between the two benches which had fans up in a tizzy.

Unlike their previous home game which resulted in a huge win, the Wolverines were unable to contain the pressure from the Storm and ended up dropping the game 4-0. One aspect that head coach Shawn Martin will likely be working with his team is shots. The Storm was able to get 31 shots on the Wolverines’ netminder whereas the Wolverines were only able to get 14. Fans in attendance could be heard remarking on the speed of this year’s team and how exciting it will be once the regular season kicks into gear on September 13.

Earlier in the day, ahead of the game with the Storm, the Wolverines made a significant acquisition by adding Charles Antoine Giguere from St. Joseph-de-Beauce, Quebec to the team. Last season, Giguere split his time between two teams in the QMJHL, Blainville and Moncton, and had 31 points in 65 games.

In an interview posted on the AJHL website, head coach Shawn Martin said they were very excited that Giguere chose Whitecourt to play his last season of junior hockey. “We believe he will add to the skill and speed that we currently have. He is a great player focused on securing a spot next season in the U Sport Conference and has a tremendous amount of character.” Fans can catch him in action when the Wolverines open the regular season on September 13 at the Scott Safety Centre where they will take on the Bonnyville Pontiacs for back-to-back games on Friday and Saturday. The following week, on Tuesday, September 17, the Wolverines will welcome the Grande Prairie Storm back to town and will be looking to square things up with a win.