Stratford Warriors have a big turnover of players from last season including five of their six top scorers.
But head coach Dave Williams has reason for optimism.
The Warriors start their GOJHL season tonight at the Allman Arena against Elmira (7:30 p.m.)
Williams and his coaching staff will get a look at a group he says worked hard through training camp and preseason.
“I think you always want to get through the first eight, 10 games to see where you are at. I feel we have made pretty good growth in the three to four weeks that we have been together.”
The roster features a mix of veterans and newcomers.
A realignment to two divisions will see Stratford play some new teams in the regular season this year, including nearby St. Marys.
Williams says that matchup is something to look forward to. Fans should enjoy it, too.
“Both teams have great community support and great community fanbases…I don’t think it will take long to build that rivalry with St. Marys.”
Listowel and St. Marys, last season’s Sutherland Cup finalists, also start their seasons tonight. Listowel host Strathroy while St. Marys host St. Thomas.
