Cougars Aim for Continued Success in Upcoming Hockey Season

The Southwest Cougars U18 AAA hockey team is gearing up for the 2025-26 season, beginning with a training camp that opens today. Under the guidance of fourth-year head coach Tanner Lewis, the Cougars have brought together a roster of approximately 48 players, the largest number in several years. This significant turnout reflects the team’s dedication to fostering competition and maximizing player potential as they prepare for their first game against the Parkland Rangers on September 26, 2025.

“It’s going to be very competitive,” Lewis remarked, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming training camp. With the Cougars coming off a successful season last year, where they achieved a record of 26-16-6 and secured a fifth-place finish in the Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League, expectations are high. Notably, the team also made headlines by sweeping the higher-seeded Winnipeg Thrashers in a best-of-five playoff series.

As the team transitions into this new season, Tanner Lewis aims to build on the momentum from last year while integrating a solid mix of returning players. “We’re excited for what’s coming. It’s a good mix we’re bringing back that has a lot of depth with it,” he said, highlighting the established culture within the team.

Key Players and Strategies for Success

The Cougars’ identity is rooted in hard work and resilience, qualities that Tanner Lewis emphasizes to his players each season. He notes that the veterans have a crucial role in instilling this culture in the younger players. “It’s on our vets to push on the culture to these younger guys and show them this is the way the Cougars do it,” Lewis stated.

One veteran player to watch is Kole Beard, whose future with the team remains uncertain as he is striving to secure a spot with the Manitoba Junior Hockey League’s Neepawa Titans. Beard has been with the Cougars since he was 15 years old, making his potential departure a significant consideration for Lewis. “He’s played in every aspect of the game possible,” Lewis said, praising Beard’s versatility and impact on the ice.

Another player expected to make strides this season is Shane Elder, a forward who scored 16 goals and accumulated 35 points last year. Elder is set to expand his role, including contributing to the team’s penalty kill.

The Cougars appear particularly strong at the center position, with players like Taylor Lockhart and Jack Polasek returning after a season in which they combined for 54 points. The defensive lineup will also rely on returning players Cole Forbes, Jaxsten Hansen-Young, and Jamie Williamson, while the goaltending situation remains open for competition. With eight goalies signed up for training camp, Lewis acknowledges that selecting the right three for the preseason will be critical.

Building Towards Consistency

As training camp commences today, the Cougars will participate in two practices followed by scrimmages on Saturday and an intrasquad game on Sunday. The results of these initial sessions will inform the first round of cuts, potentially reducing the roster size from around 48 to 25 or 30 players.

Beyond the immediate challenges of training camp, Tanner Lewis emphasizes the need for consistency throughout the season. “You can’t just flip a switch and expect to be at 100 percent,” he explained, asserting that the team must gradually build towards peak performance as they approach the playoffs.

The Southwest Cougars are set to embark on a journey filled with potential and determination. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the team aims not merely to compete but to excel in the Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League. As they prepare for their upcoming season, the Cougars remain focused on the mantra that has guided them: opportunities are earned, not given.