The Generals continue to be among Cochrane’s favourite teams.
Holding the top spot in the Cochrane Eagle’s Best of Cochrane Awards for Best Local Sports Team for the past number of years, is a testament to the team’s standing in the community,” said general manager Jacqueline Hurlburt.
“It show the success the Generals have had both on and off the ice,” she said, pointing to the fact that the Heritage Junior Hockey League team is Cochrane through and through.
Not only are the players from the community, but they also devote a lot of time to various events – such as WinterFest and Hometown Hockey – and help mentor younger players both on and off the ice.
“It inspires our younger youth to come out and cheer on the team,” said Hurlburt, adding that many of the younger players look up to the Generals players.
While that community presence is admirable and demonstrates the team’s character and integrity, it is only half of the equation. Success on the scoreboard is what brings the fans to the barn and the Generals have definitely been tallying the points.
“Back-to-back years we have been Southern Division finalists,” said Hurlburt.
Last season, the Generals put on a show tallying the second most goals –236 – and allowing the least – 98 – in the league on the way to a first overall finish and a stellar 33-4-1 record. While the team lost the best of five championship series, the Generals earned a franchise highest showing at provincials with a silver medal.
Hurlburt said the goal for this coming season, is to build on that success on the ice and continue to grown the team’s community involvement and profile.
That will all have to happen under the lead of a new coach with the resignation of Dan Gendur, but Hurlburt is confident the change in coaching staff will not be detrimental to the team.
“The right people will be in place to ensure they continue succeeding,” she said.
