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‘They’re elite-level players’: AAA Bantam players headed to all-star game

Four Lloydminster AAA Bantam players are headed to the AMBHL All-Star Game this week.

This will be the second time forward Ryker Singer is representing the Bobcats playing for Team North. Defenseman Logan Beebe, goalie Scott Ratzlaff and forward Brent Hoschowski are also a part of Team North and will be making their first appearance at the all-star game.

Last year, not only were the players a part of the game but the coaching staff also played a part. Bobcats coach Kyle Tapp believes the players will do well even without their regular coaching.

“They’re all great players and definitely deserve to be there. I wouldn’t say we did anything, in particular, to get them there. They’re elite level players. They belong there and I think they would be there whether we were coaching the team or not.” 

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The AMBHL only allows a certain number of players from each team to take part in the game. However, for the players that do go to the game, it gives them an opportunity to showcase their skills to scouts and be a part of the best players in the province. Tapp believes many of the players would make the all-star team without the rule but the four who are going are key players the team relies on. 

“It’s a feather in the cap and then they come home and get back to work. They have a team that they’re committed and dedicated to. I know everyone is happy for them to go and represent the team and showcase their skills. We’re all cheering for them.”

The All-star game will take place at the Bill Hunter Arena in Edmonton on January 11 at 2:30 p.m. Tapp says outside of the all-star game it’s a busy time for the team. A few days after the all-star game, the Bobcats will be facing the top teams in the league at the John Reid Memorial Tournament in St. Albert. 

“It’s invite-only so you have to qualify to get in. Our first game in the morning is against the number ranked team in Western Canada. It’ll be another great test and a great place for guys to showcase themselves.”

The Bobcats will be facing the Delta Wild Academy on January 16. Tapp says there are some nerves but also they are excited to see how they play in the tournament.

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