One last last year's key cogs for the Stratford Warriors is looking to make the leap to the Ontario Hockey League this year.
Carson Harmer, who put up 28 goals and 37 points in the regular season then added 18 points in the playoffs last year for Stratford, is attempting to earn a spot on the roster of the defending Memorial Cup champion Saginaw Spirit. The Mitchell native had to compete against two older brothers while he was growing up so he isn’t worried about competing against some older players who have championship experience. He credits his development with the Warriors for preparing him for this opportunity.
“I’ve learned everything from the day-to-days of being an OHL player, and I’ve gotten to work on my game this training camp,” Harmer said. “Playing in Stratford was unreal. I wouldn’t change the experience for anything, as Stratford is a first-class organization in terms of how the players are treated.”
In three pre-season games with the Spirit, Harmer has two assists so it's fair to say he's still finding his way in the OHL.
“Of course with moving to the OHL I am working on my strength and things like my shot and puck possession,” Harmer said.
It’s a big year for the 17-year-old who is draft eligible this season. He'll be looking to fill out his game in order to catch the eye of National Hockey League scouts, and he's hoping making the Spirit will be the first step in that process.
“It would be amazing to be selected but I am not focused on that,” said Harmer. “I am focused on the things I can control like being a consistent player day in and day out.”
The Saginaw Spirit open up the regular season against the Windsor Spitfires at home on September 25, and luckily for Harmer the Spirit's barn isn’t too far from home.
“My parents already come to games in Saginaw, but playing close to home would allow my friends to come out to the game,” said Harmer. “If I made the team it would be quite a homecoming when we travelled to Kitchener or London.”
