The Nanaimo Buccaneers are beginning a new VIJHL season with the goal of big improvements on the ice and making connections in the community. (Nanaimo Buccaneers)

By Dan Marshall

Starting Fresh

Buccaneers hope training camp is a springboard to success in 2023-24 VIJHL campaign

Aug 19, 2023 | 6:07 AM

NANAIMO — There is a feeling of change around the Nanaimo Buccaneers.

After just a combined six wins over the last two years, the Bucs will have a largely new roster, a new coach, and a new designation as a Junior A hockey club for 2023-24.

Co-owner Tali Campbell said main training camp will begin on Saturday Aug. 19.

“We’re excited to welcome 40 guys to main camp. We’ve got a lot of new faces, obviously a couple of returning guys, and a new coach in Troy Newans. The expectation from day one moving forward is going to be high tempo, fast hockey.”

On day one of camp the Buccaneers players will go through fitness testing, have some practice time and end the day with a scrimmage game.

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On Sunday, Aug. 20 the team will have an exhibition prospects game in Parksville against the Oceanside Generals at 3 p.m.

Campbell is looking forward to the evaluation process over a six game preseason.

“It’s definitely going to be a younger group again. The goal is to look at what we’ve got in our own backyard in the Nanaimo area and start to assess the local talent and provide an opportunity for proper development.”

During the offseason the VIJHL became a Junior A hockey league.

There are increased obligations for the Buccaneers as a Junior A club which should provide players with a more complete hockey experience on and off the ice.

Additional practice times, mandatory gym sessions and increased focus on education are all on the agenda for the Bucs as a result of the change in designation.

After a five win season the Buccaneers will be turning over a large part of their roster.

Campbell said adding character is paramount for the organization moving forward.

“We want to bring in good individuals who have like minded attitudes of getting better every single day both on and off the ice. Something we’re going to be big on again this year is having our players showcase their community leadership.”

Nanaimo opens the VIJHL regular season by welcoming the Port Alberni Bombers on Sept.7.

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