The Renfrew Wolves get one last practice in before heading to Ottawa to start the CCHL Playoffs
As far as the Renfrew Wolves are concerned, everything is developing right on time.
General Manager Jerrett DeFazio’s Junior A squad will get their CCHL Bogart Cup Playoffs underway against the Ottawa Jr. Senators this Saturday, March 21st, leaning on last year’s deep draft class and a focus on high-character teammates to take a big leap forward in the second year of a three-year rebuild.
The Wolves’ play on the backline has been particularly impressive to DeFazio, who praises his defense and goaltending core for staying strong in the first half of the season despite the departure of local phenom Kale McGregor.
He says a few key mid-season moves have given Renfrew what might be the best goalie tandem in the league ahead of the playoffs.
Another key to this year’s success has been the complete overhaul of their strength and conditioning under coach Luke Homer, which has kept the Wolves ready late into games throughout the winter.
That conditioning and the Wolves’ overall mettle will be put to the test against Ottawa, but DeFazio says the message in the locker room is to keep their chins up as they hit the road for game one.
Renfrew’s return to the playoffs comes following a quick turnaround from last season, when the Wolves finished at the bottom of the league’s standings.
(written by Kasey Egan)
