New regional rivalry starts Friday

The two Greater Metro Junior "A" teams in the region will square off for the first time ever this Friday in Verner when the Nipissing Alouettes host the expansion Temiscaming Royals.

The Alouettes will have a younger squad this year which includes only five returning players.

Alouettes head coach Marc St-Georges says he's still waiting for a couple of last minute cuts from other Junior "A" teams to complete the Als roster.

Prices at the door are $9.00 for adults, $8.00 for students and seniors and $6.00 for children 12 and under.

Season tickets are still available.

Royal treatment

The Royals and Alouettes have more than just a regional connection.

The Royals are coached by former Alouette bench boss Steve McCharles.

The Temiscaming Royals host their exhibition opener against the Muskoka Shield at The Centre in Temiscaming, Quebec on Wednesday night at 8 p.m.

The Royals will be led by forward Cory Raymond who recently returned from the London Knights training camp.

Royals head coach and general Manager Steve McCharles likes his team’s depth.

“I’m incredibly impressed,” said McCharles

“We have 12 or 13 strong forwards and six strong defencemen.”

Four North Bay and Temiscaming area players signed with the team including former Trapper Chris Hebert, former Widdifield Wildcat Cory Raymond, former Algonquin Baron Corey Marquardt, and Temiscaming product Brandon Blanche.