Wheelchair Sports Alberta are sending two teams to this year’s tournament. With a mix of D1 and D2 regulars both the defending champion Roughnecks and talented Bighorns should be in the hunt for the title.

While the Roughnecks are a D1 team and the Bighorns compete in D2 at Nationals – Here in Vancouver they’re mixed squads with a balance of established and emerging talents.

Alberta Roughnecks

The Roughnecks are full of fan favorites from past tournaments. Denolm Stephens always brings the energy for Alberta, and Kenny Hicks might be the most willy veteran in Canadian D2. On the defensive side of the ball Kasey Aiello and Rob MacIssac are about as dependable a pair of low-pointers that you can find at this level.

Additionally, playmakers Lana Cicko and Jeff Dow love to play physical defense. They both know how to use their strong hands to deflect passes, knock the ball off of laps and create momentum swinging turnovers.

Look for Stephens to be the primary offensive option for this balanced team that could be a real dark horse to make the final.

The Bighorns

Don’t call the Bighorns a “B” Team this year. With Branden Troutman (3.5) making plays and creating havoc on defense. The Bighorns should be big favorites to take home the title.

However, they are more than just a one-man show. Dale Nording (2.5) is one of the most experienced players around. The trio of Kendall Winter (2.0F), Andrew Cheung (1.5), and BJ Engerdahl (0.5) are capable pickers who’ll clear paths, pop tires and more than likely make some great catches for tries off deep passes from Troutman and Nording.

Keep an extra eye out for rookie Kurt Timmonds who will be competing in his first tournament this weekend! It’s always exciting to see new players.

Schedule

The Roughnecks are in Pool A while the Bighorns will compete in Pool B. Catch the Roughnecks in the tournament opener on Friday at noon against BC1 on Court 1 while the Bighorns play Quebec on Court 2.