Alyssa MacMillan is going to be filled with pride playing hockey for B.C. in the Canada Winter Games in Prince George next February.
MacMillan impressed enough during the final stage of the under-18 tryouts in Summerland last month to earn a spot on the team.
“There was only one forward to be cut … definitely stressful down to the last day,” said MacMillan. “That last game was a weight off the shoulders.”
MacMillan, who plays for the Okanagan Hockey Academy female midget team, said it was a tough camp as players were put through their paces with fitness testing and on-ice sessions everyday. There were also team activities and games in the evening.
“I definitely learned a lot. A lot of high-level coaches we have on our staff,” said MacMillan.
Thoughts of the Canada Winter Games will not ever really escape MacMillan’s mind. While playing with the OHA, MacMillan will also be joining Team B.C. for a tournament in Regina in September. They also have a weekend to spend time with the boys team in December.
“I’m really excited,” said MacMillan.
According to the B.C. Hockey website, the U18 level is the third and final stage of the high performance program.
Under-18 athletes will be evaluated on their play at the national competition and successful players will be invited to the Hockey Canada U18 identification camp. The high performance program prepares players for the national program where they will undergo the same fitness testing and attend similar types of camps.
