Achi news desk-
These puck-lucky blondes are hoping their team-building bleacher job turns a trip to Nova Scotia into even more fun than they already are.
It’s a tradition that’s been around for years: The Calgary U 18 Buffaloes bleach their hair blonde before the playoffs.
For players like forward Diego Cazac it’s all about bringing the team together.
“Exactly because everyone is doing it,” said the 17-year-old.
“It’s a team (building) thing for sure,” he added, “and it builds character a lot in the room as well I think.”
A deal is a deal
Even their head coach Brent Harrison got in on the act this year. He says he dyed his hair blonde as part of a deal he made with the team.”
“I told the boys if they got to the Telus Cup I would dye my hair,” said Harrison. “I had to be a man of my word and go through with it.”
Players had doubts
Forward Townes Kozicky, 15, wasn’t sure if Harrison would make it through.
“I had my doubts,” he said.
“I thought maybe but it turns out he actually did so it’s pretty amazing.”
“I think it looks pretty good to be honest,” Kozicky added. “I didn’t think it was the worst hair on our team but yeah, I think it looks pretty good.”
Go to Nova Scotia
The Buffs will take their blonde locks to Nova Scotia this weekend for the Telus Cup. Forward Talen Lewis, 17, says it’s an exciting time for the Buffs.
“I think we feel pretty good,” he said.
“Our work has been consistent since the beginning of the year. Everything we’ve been doing and just working hard and trying to improve as a team. I think we feel pretty good, the confidence is high and we are happy to represent.”
First time opponents
Playing in the Telus Cup can be a challenge because you know nothing about your opponent. You can scout them using video but you’ve never played against them.
Casac says you can’t get overconfident.
“You go with a mindset and assume they are the best team in the world,” he said.
“You don’t want to underestimate them at all. You don’t want to come out looking short or anything you have to do your best.”
Feature game
The Buffs will have the hosts right off the bat, when they face the Sydney Rush on Monday night. Harrison says it will be fun.
“I’m sure there will be a big crowd and there will probably be a few ceremonies and stuff with opening ceremonies going on. They are honoring one of their senior teams who went to the Telus Cup years ago so it should be an exciting first game and we should be ready.”
Here’s a look at Buffalo’s schedule
Monday
Calgary Buffaloes vs. Sydney Rush
Tuesday
Calgary Buffaloes vs. Kensington Wild
Wednesday
Calgary Buffaloes vs. Markham Waxers
Thursday
Calgary Buffaloes vs. Brandon Wheat Kings
Friday
Buffaloes Calgary vs Cantonniers de Magog
The top four teams will play in the semi-final on Saturday. The bronze and gold medal games will be played on Sunday April 28ed.
