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The North Shore Winter Club has been a key hub for hockey training in North Vancouver since its establishment in the 1950s. Each Friday afternoon in November, the facility buzzes with the sounds of young athletes maneuvering their hockey gear through its corridors. With four ice surfaces at their disposal, players of all ages have ample opportunities to refine their skills. In addition to ice hockey, the club features a gym and courts dedicated to tennis and pickleball, making it a versatile venue for sports enthusiasts.
The alumni wall: A testament to success
The club’s alumni wall stands out as a celebration of achievement, featuring the names of distinguished former members who have excelled in their sport. Among these athletes are Chloe Primerano, a defender for the University of Minnesota, as well as Macklin Celebrini and Connor Bedard, both of whom have made significant impacts in the NHL. These individuals exemplify the club’s commitment to developing talent and may represent Canada at the upcoming Olympic Games.
Potential Olympic stars
At just 18 years old, Primerano is the youngest member of her group and is already making strides in hockey. Now in her second year of college, she has the potential to become the youngest player on the Olympic team if selected. This achievement would mirror the historic feat of Marie-Philip Poulin, who was the youngest participant in 2010. During the summer months, Primerano, along with teammates Bedard and Celebrini, trains rigorously at the club, fully utilizing the facilities to prepare for the upcoming competitive season.
Building a hockey community
According to Kyle Turris, a retired NHL player and the current general manager of the club, fostering a sense of community is essential. Turris emphasizes that having prominent alumni return to the club serves as an inspiration for younger players. “Seeing these extraordinary talents in action helps motivate our minor hockey players, providing them with role models to aspire to,” he states.
North Vancouver is emerging as a hockey hub, particularly for women’s hockey, highlighted by the recent establishment of the Vancouver Goldeneyes in the PWHL. This development is expected to significantly elevate interest and participation in the sport.
Success breeds success
The North Shore Winter Club serves as a training ground for NHL stars like Jansen Harkins and Kent Johnson, as well as emerging talents such as Nina Jobst-Smith. Drafted 19th overall by the Goldeneyes, Jobst-Smith reflects on her journey that began with the North Shore Avalanche, the team she played for during her formative years. She stresses the significance of community in hockey: “When organizations foster a welcoming environment, they help grow the sport and encourage more players to join,” she states.
Mentoring the next generation
The club demonstrates a strong commitment to player development through dedicated coaches such as Cole Todd. Todd’s connection with the Celebrini family began years ago when he coached Macklin’s under-13 team. He recalls the collaborative discussions he had with Macklin’s father, Rick Celebrini, about athletic development, where both learned from each other’s experiences. This mentorship has been invaluable for Todd, who regards Macklin as a younger brother.
As the NHL draft nears, anticipation grows for both Connor Bedard and Macklin Celebrini, who are competing for spots on the Olympic team. Bedard’s exceptional skills and pace have garnered widespread attention, while Celebrini’s recent performances have solidified his status as an emerging talent.
Learning from passion
Todd highlights that observing the dedication of Primerano, Bedard, and Celebrini inspires him in his role as a coach. “Their commitment to their craft is infectious; it pushes me to elevate my coaching methods every single day,” he states. If all three athletes secure their spots on the Olympic roster, Todd has considered traveling to Italy to support them.
The potential success of these athletes would represent a significant achievement for the North Shore Winter Club, further establishing its reputation as a breeding ground for future hockey superstars. “Everyone here will be cheering for them,” Todd emphasizes, reflecting the club’s spirit and pride in its athletes.