Temiscaming to host NOJHL All-Star game

NOJHL Commissioner Hector Seguin (middle) addresses the media during Wednesday's All-Star game press conference in Temiscaming. Photo by Chris Dawson.

TEMISCAMING, QC. - The Temiscaming Royals Jr. A hockey team will be hosting 2009-2010 NOJHL All-Star game set for Saturday, January 2nd, 2010, with the puck drop set for 7:00 p.m. at the Centre. The announcement was made during a press conference at the Brassette-Temrose restaurant in Temiscaming Wednesday morning.

The event will include a minor hockey skills competition at 2:00 p.m. and a NOJHL Skills Competition set for 5:00 p.m.

NOJHL commissioner Hector Seguin is glad to see the league supporting an All-Star game, an event which hasn’t occurred for 5 years.

“The (league) directors decided we had to do something to promote our league so we have to start by promoting our players,” said Seguin who was in attendance at the press conference.

Temiscaming Royals coach and general manager Steve McCharles believes the event will draw scouts from the NCAA, Major Junior and possibly the NHL on January 2nd.

“For us in Temiscaming it shows a commitment from our end to continue to develop our program. I know it’s a league event, but it shows our commitment and I think the town and the area, including North Bay, will be excited now that the official announcement has been made.”

The event will pit the NOJHL Eastern Conference All-Stars against the best from the Western Conference. Team West will be coached by Blind River's Jim Capy, while Team East will be led by North Bay's Ian Swalucynski.

The Jr. Trappers head coach is looking forward to perhaps hearing some cheers instead of boo's when he gets behind the Team East bench.

“I’m excited to see all the different guys try to come together as one and maybe create some rivalries between the West and the East," said Swalucynski, who will be joined behind the Team East bench by Sudbury's Dave Clancy and the Royals Randy Edmonds.

"It should be great for the fans and a fast paced game. Hopefully we can have some good intensity in the game and that’s what its all about. As far as the scouts go, if they are following some kids in our league what better time to come out and see some more kids. We need to make some calls and get scouts out there."

The rosters are expected to be announced within the next week.