The largest Midget AAA showcase in Canada is underway in Calgary.
The Prince Albert Mintos open the 33rd annual Mac's Tournament against the Winnipeg Wild at 2:30 p.m. Sunday.
The tournament offers a good break from league play, said Mintos’ head coach Tim Leonard.
“(There's) lots of pressure on these kids everybody expects us to win and it's tough to stay up there,” he said.
“I think we can put the league behind us for a few weeks. We're going to go out … and enjoy ourselves.”
The Mintos sit in first place in Saskatchewan Midget AAA at the Christmas break, two points ahead of the Moose Jaw Generals.
Prince Albert also rolls into the Mac's on a hot streak with nine wins in their last ten games.
Leonard attributes the team's recent success to a healthy line-up.
“The last few weeks here we've had everyone and we're pretty pumped about it. Guys are starting to get settled into their roles and their line mates,” said Leonard.
“These kids are excited and I expect them to go out and compete hard and I think we will show ok out there.”
There are 25 teams competing at the tournament that runs until Jan.1. Other Saskatchewan teams in the field include the Beardy's Blackhawks, Tisdale Trojans and the Saskatoon Contacts.
Mintos' schedule:
Dec. 26, 2:30 p.m. vs Winnipeg Wild
Dec. 27, 8:00 a.m. vs Red Deer Optimist Rebels
Dec. 29, 4:15 p.m. vs Valley West Hawks
Dec. 30, 10:45 a.m. vs UFA Bisons
Beardy's schedule:
Dec.26, 11:45 a.m. vs Cariboo Cougars
Dec.27, 8:00 a.m. vs Sherwood Park J.Ennis Kings
Dec. 28, 10:45 a.m. vs San Jose Jr. Sharks
Dec.29 1:30 p.m. vs Calgary Northstars
bbosker@panow.com
