Photo courtesy of the Alpena 45ers gather during a recent training camp at Northern Light Arena in Alpena. The team will kick off its first season Saturday at 7 p.m.
ALPENA — As the Alpena 45ers prepare for their inaugural season, head coach Miles Grix emphasizes the importance of winning championships and fostering team culture and community ties.
The 45ers begin the season Saturday against the Muskegon Voyagers at Northern Lights Arena in Alpena. Puck drop is at 7 p.m.
With a roster that has undergone significant turnover, Grix is focused on this year’s team’s potential.
“Our goal is to win a championship,” Grix said. “But I also think it’s important to build as a team and within the community. We have a strong group of players and we want Alpena to see what we’ve developed. ”
Almost everyone on the team is new this season, Grix said, presenting both challenges and opportunities.
“We have a lot of new players this year, but we also have a strong core that will impact our performance,” Grix pointed out.
He recognizes that integrating new players will take time and effort, especially since many players have little experience in the league.
“The biggest challenge is that we are a young team,” he explained. “Many of our players have never played in this league before, so it is essential that we all prepare for what is expected of us. We need to make sure we are ready to compete. ”
It may be difficult to build on last year’s accomplishments with a new roster, but Grix aims to recreate the successful culture established at Gaylord.
“Our goal is to reflect what we have at Gaylord while being more involved in the community,” he said.
When asked about the team’s camaraderie, Grix said, “There’s always room for improvement.”
As the team continues to build its roster, Grix is focused on acquiring players that complement the existing talent.
“Our roster is not yet decided. We still have spots left to fill, so we need to make sure we bring in the right players to match our abilities,” he added.
As the Alpena 45ers begin this new chapter, fans can look forward to a season full of potential and development.
Get your 45ers gear at hitclubhockey.com/collections/alpena-45ers or purchase season tickets at tinyurl.com/Alpena45erSeasonTix.
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