Swan Valley Stampeders open 2025 training camp with eyes on playoff return

The Swan Valley Stampeders of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League will officially kick off their 2025 Fall Training Camp this weekend, ushering in a new season with fresh energy, fierce competition, and a clear mandate: return to playoff contention.

Assistant General Manager Darren Webster spoke candidly about the club’s off-season, which he described as one of the most productive in recent memory.

With several top scorers graduating and three veteran defensemen departing, the Stampeders faced significant roster gaps. “We had a lot of holes to fill,” Webster said. “Our recruiting efforts were focused on bringing in players who could step in and contribute immediately—and so far, they’ve looked great in conditioning camp.”

This year’s camp introduces a revised structure aimed at maximizing player evaluation with four smaller teams competing in mini-games throughout the weekend, culminating in a full inter-squad game on Sunday afternoon. It marks the return of a fan-favorite tradition, giving supporters a first look at the team’s evolving identity.

 Despite missing the playoffs last season, the Stampeders mounted a late-season surge, narrowing an 18-point deficit to just four points out of a postseason berth by January.

That momentum has carried into camp, with every eligible forward returning in peak condition including Ben Groome, Jake Giacobbo, Riley Fequet and Ethan MacTavish just to name a few while among the new faces is Finlay Johnston a standout from Langley’s AAA circuit and signee Crosby Harrison, whose attending camp with the WHL’s Brandon Wheat Kings. 

On defense, the club returns the likes of Gavin Bartha, Darren Hunt, Luke Scheck  added depth with Jackson Fleming, James Cullison, and Carson Connolly, while Cade Bolding is expected to join later from Western League camp.

“There’s going to be a lot of competition,” Webster noted. “No one’s guaranteed a spot, and that’s exactly what we want.”

The crease will be a focal point of camp, with returning goaltenders Elias and Rowan facing a push from three new challengers. With only six exhibition games on the schedule, the coaching staff will rely on high-intensity practices to make critical decisions before opening night.

 The 2025–26 season also marks Head Coach and GM Josh Tripp’s first full campaign as head coach and general manager, a move that has energized the community. Joining him is assistant coach Mark Woolgar, a local favorite returning to Swan River with his family.

“There’s a real hometown feel this year,” Webster said. “Everyone’s rooting for these guys to succeed.”