Cougars Gear Up for Competitive U18 AAA Hockey Season

The Southwest Cougars U18 AAA hockey team is poised to build on last season’s success as they kick off training camp in preparation for the 2025-26 season. Under the guidance of fourth-year head coach Tanner Lewis, the Cougars will welcome approximately 48 players to their main camp, marking the largest roster the club has seen in several years. This influx of talent sets the stage for a highly competitive selection process ahead of the final roster announcement on September 20, 2025.

“It’s going to be very competitive,” Lewis stated during a press briefing. “We’re excited to see what shapes up and who steps up.” Last season, the Cougars surprised many by finishing with a record of 26-16-6 and securing fifth place in the Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League. Their unexpected playoff performance included a notable sweep of the higher-seeded Winnipeg Thrashers in a best-of-five series, indicating a strong foundation for the upcoming season.

With ten returning players, Lewis is optimistic about leveraging last year’s momentum. “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 noted, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the team culture. The Cougars are known for their hardworking ethos, with Lewis highlighting their ability to compete fiercely, score dynamically, and adapt their defensive strategies effectively.

Leadership will play a crucial role this season. Veteran player Kole Beard is expected to be a key contributor, although his current status is uncertain as he aims for a spot with the Neepawa Titans in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. Lewis praised Beard’s versatility, stating, “He’s played in every aspect of the game possible. He plays on the power plays, he plays on the penalty kill, and when we need a goal, he’s out there.”

Another player to watch is Shane Elder, a promising forward born in 2008, who scored 16 goals and recorded 35 points last season. Elder is set to take on a more significant role this year, including responsibilities in penalty killing. The Cougars’ strength is expected to lie in their center position, featuring Taylor Lockhart and Jack Polasek, who combined for 54 points last season.

Defensively, returning players Cole Forbes, Jaxsten Hansen-Young, and Jamie Williamson will anchor the blue line. The goaltending position remains highly competitive, with eight goalies vying for three spots as both Brodie Cameron and Micky Gross have graduated from the program. “It’s definitely going to be a good battle,” Lewis remarked about the goaltending competition, underscoring the importance of selecting the right players for the preseason.

The Cougars’ training camp will begin with two practices, followed by two scrimmages on Saturday and an intrasquad game on Sunday. These initial activities will lead to the first round of cuts, which could see the roster reduced from 48 to between 25 and 30 players, depending on performance.

Looking ahead, Lewis emphasized the importance of consistency as the team prepares for the playoffs. “It’s all about consistency when it comes time for a playoff run,” he explained. “You can’t just flip a switch and expect to be at 100 percent; it’s kind of like revving up and working your way up to where we want to be.”

As the Cougars aim to carry their success into the new season, their first regular-season game will take place against the Parkland Rangers on September 26, 2025, at Credit Union Place in Dauphin, Manitoba. With a mix of seasoned veterans and eager newcomers, the Cougars are ready to take on the challenges ahead.