The Kemptville 73’s wrapped up another weekend of exhibition play with a pair of losses.
The 73’s fell in two close matchups with the Brockville Braves, falling on Friday by a score of 3-2, and following that up with a 4-3 overtime loss on Saturday.
Head Coach Jason York says while they didn’t get the results they wanted, he’s proud of the team for giving their all.
“These games have been really competitive, despite the fact that it’s limited contact,” York said. “So, it’s really difficult for the referees to call the game but they’ve done a great job. It could’ve gone either way in either game but it’s just good to have the boys playing hockey again.”
The loss drops Kemptville to 2-6-1 in exhibition play, while Brockville improves to 8-2.
With no set date for the start of the shortened season, York says it’s been good to see his squad keep pace with a tough Braves’ squad.
He says these games are valuable for preparing the team for whatever lies ahead.
“The wins or losses don’t count right now, it’s helping prepare us for if we do have a playoff or even down the road when we start playing for real,” York said. “So, it’s just good to have that competition against a competitive team and it’s beneficial to both sides.”
York adds that returning to play has had a tremendous impact on players’ mental health.
Kemptville wraps up exhibition play on Friday, with another bout in Brockville against the Braves.
“I think the thing that’s been ignored, especially in Ontario is the mental health of teenagers,” York said. “A lot of these kids have been struggling with what’s going to happen for their futures. Just to get playing again and getting these boys in a routine has been awesome.”
Puck drop for Friday’s contest is 7:30 p.m. at the Brockville Memorial Centre.
