Regina, SK (CKLQ) – It’s been a long five weeks for the Regina Pats after they were eliminated in the first round of the WHL Playoffs against the Swift Current Broncos.
And it’s even been longer for goaltender and Brandonite Max Paddock.
Paddock is the only Westman representative in the 2018 Memorial Cup this year, which will be held in Regina, Saskatchewan.
The Pats knew the whole year they would be in the four-team tournament, as the host team.
But after getting beat by the eventual WHL Champions, Swift Current Broncos, the Pats have had to practice for the past five weeks.
"It’s been tough to come to practice, get bag-skated some days, and just do this repeatedly over the past weeks," said Paddock. "But at the end of the day, we know what we’re fighting for."
Paddock hasn’t played since early March, as he went down with an injury on March 19, just days before the opening round series.
Paddock says the whole team has been preparing for any opponent that would have to make their way to Regina.
"We’re all anxious to get going," said Paddock.
Many of Paddock’s family members will be heading out to Regina, thanks to an only three hour drive from Brandon.
"It’ll be great to see my family members there and playing in the national spotlight in front of friends back home," said Paddock.
Paddock excited for Memorial Cup
By Matthew Higgs
May 18, 2018 | 5:00 AM