Johnston playing with the big girls

Carly Johnston, a Level 11 student at King Academy in Harbour Breton, is one of the big girls with the Central IcePak Triple A Girls' hockey team this season.

Ms. Johnston was one of about 50 young girls who tried out for the team back in October and was one of the 17 players who made the roster.

Ms. Johnston said, "I played hockey inn Harbour Breton, and I wanted to take my game to a brand new level last year. I was a member of the IcePak Triple A last season, and I made the team again this year.

"I was on the tam last year, so I know what the coaches need and expect from me. I'm a strong skater, and I like to think I play a good game of hockey."

Alexander Crawford has been coaching the Triple A IcePak girls' Triple A team for the past three years. He said that Ms. Johnston was selected for the 2009-2010 for several reasons.

"Carly really understands the game and is a smart hockey player. She is a really good forward for us and is a key part of our team.

"In addition, she is really dedicated to the game, and to the team, and has an excellent attitude, both on and off the ice."

In addition to the regular season games Ms. Johnston will play this season against the other four IcePak teams in Newfoundland and Labrador, Ms. Johnston is really looking forward to two special tournaments.

She said, "In January 2010 we will be participating in a Playdown in Stephenville to determine which other Triple A team, besides ours, will qualify for the Atlantic Triple A Female Tournament that will be played in Gander in March 2010.

"As our team is from Central, we are guaranteed a spot in the March event, and I'm really looking forward to playing against the best young female hockey players in Atlantic Canada. It will be great tournament for all of us."