Coyotes say farewell to veteran player at season opener

 In Sports

Days before the Creemore Coyotes home opener Saturday, general manager Tom Macham is looking ahead to ensure his team is well positioned for the playoffs.

He said he is constantly trying to improve the team.

“I’m not done signing players yet,” said Macham. “If we want to keep pace I have to keep trying to improve the team.”

His goals for the season are to stay in the top-four in order to ensure home ice advantage in the playoffs, like the team enjoyed last year, and “provide a real top quality level of entertainment for the Creemore and area hockey fans.”

While other teams in the AA league are close to the Junior B centres and can scoop up members, Macham has to work hard to woo gifted players.

This season he is pleased to have three new highly skilled forwards to bolster the offence: Jake Stoneham from Barrie, Michael Capicotto from Mississauga, and Scott Dorion from Tiny Township.

Macham is also happy to report that Nick Demarchi is back.

“He played like five minutes last year then he hurt his knee,” said Macham. “He can play both forward and defence which is unique.”

Macham has also signed two young defencemen out of Junior C: Ryan Matthews from Barrie, and Andrew Hrinco from Mississauga; and two new goalies: Dylan Halliday from Wasaga Beach, and Rodney Lewis from Beeton.

On a sad note, it will be a farewell game for Jackson Clarke, a former Siskin who has been playing with the Coyotes since the team formed four years ago. His Number 17 jersey will be retired after Saturday’s game and there will be a ceremony at centre ice with a tribute from people in the hockey community.

“He has played his whole life in Clearview,” said Macham. “No one will wear 17 as long as I live and breathe.”

That same night Tribute Communities will present the team with a $10,000 cheque, confirming a sponsorship for a second season.

The home opener will be played against the Milverton Four Wheel Drives, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Creemore arena.

Coyotes home games include much spectacle and opportunities for fan engagement with shoot-the-puck, flag-bearers and kids’ games. New this year is turkey bowling at intermission starting in November leading up to a playoff round in February for a grand prize.

There will be draws each period, and an e-bike raffle, with other prizes for gift cards to local businesses and Coyotes swag up for grabs. Raffle tickets are for sale at the games or by calling Macham at 705-435-8469.

Hogback Road will be performing in the booster club, serving Creemore Springs beer.

Don’t miss the three-on-three exhibition game with the Siskins at the Creemore arena on Nov. 30. Entry by donation to the food bank.

Emma Coleman photo: Number 17, Jackson Clarke. 

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