Greyhounds Head Coach John Dean Couldn’t Hide His Excitement for Six-foot-Five, 212-Pounder Star

In the world of junior hockey, every season brings its own set of challenges and opportunities, and for the Soo Greyhounds, the anticipation was palpable as they stepped onto the ice for their much-awaited season opener against the Guelph Storm. With a shaky start leading to a record of 0-3, the Hounds were in search of a spark to ignite their campaign. That spark came in the form of Charlie Hilton, a towering six-foot-five, 212-pound left-winger who had just joined the team from the Ottawa 67’s. Despite arriving just hours before the game, Hilton made an immediate impact that would not only help the Greyhounds secure their first win of the season but also serve as a rallying point for the entire roster.

Hilton’s arrival was not just a stroke of luck; it was a strategic move by Greyhounds head coach John Dean, who recognized the need for a player who could bring physicality and skill to the ice. Acquired in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick in 2027, Hilton stepped into his role with a combination of excitement and nervousness, but it didn’t take long for him to settle in. “I’m pumped. I couldn’t be happier. This is the best possible scenario for me,” he said, radiating enthusiasm after the game. “I had some nerves at first, but with the confidence from the coaching staff, I settled right down and felt at home.”

The atmosphere in Guelph was electric as the Greyhounds and Storm clashed. Playing on a line with fellow forwards Travis Hayes and Brady Martin, Hilton quickly demonstrated his knack for creating scoring opportunities. Their chemistry was evident from the outset, as Hilton’s size and skill complemented the dynamic play of his linemates. “They’re both great players; we just started clicking out there,” Hilton remarked, highlighting the collaborative effort that characterized their game.

Hilton’s contributions were significant. He recorded two assists, both of which showcased his vision and playmaking ability. The first came during a crucial second-period moment when Martin fed Hilton on the left wing. Hilton then executed a perfect saucer pass to Hayes, who redirected the puck into the net to give the Hounds a 2-1 lead. The play was not just a highlight; it was a demonstration of Hilton’s ability to read the game and make quick decisions under pressure.

But Hilton was not the only new face making waves that night. Camerin Cardona, a waiver pickup from the Tri-City Americans, scored his first OHL goal, which ultimately proved to be the game-winner. After taking a feed from Carson Andrew following a Storm turnover, Cardona showcased his sharp shooting skills by placing the puck past the Guelph goaltender on the glove side. “I feel amazing. I had a spot planned out. That’s my spot right there,” Cardona said, reflecting on the joy of scoring in his debut. His excitement resonated with fans and teammates alike, further emphasizing the positive energy that the new players brought to the Greyhounds.

As the game progressed, the Greyhounds found themselves in a back-and-forth battle. They initially took the lead, only to have it tied shortly after by Guelph. The Storm’s equalizer came swiftly, with Will McFadden scoring just five seconds into the second period, marking one of the fastest goals in Guelph’s franchise history. The back-and-forth nature of the game created a palpable tension, but the Hounds’ resolve began to shine through as they fought to reclaim the lead.

Throughout the contest, head coach John Dean praised his players’ tenacity and willingness to make sacrifices for the team. “I’m happy for the boys. The guys were willing to pay the price, that’s the bottom line,” Dean remarked after the game, noting how they blocked shots and contributed to the defensive effort, highlighting the collective spirit that often defines a successful team.

As the third period unfolded, the Greyhounds found themselves clinging to a narrow lead. The Storm pressed hard, looking to tie the game once again, but the Hounds’ defense, bolstered by strong performances from players like Hilton, remained resolute. The home team made several attempts to level the score, but Greyhounds goaltender Charlie Schenkel stood tall, making key saves that kept the momentum in favor of the visitors.

Schenkel’s performance was a critical factor in the Greyhounds’ success that night. Dean praised the young goalie, stating, “We needed that tonight. Charlie had a very, very solid game. We relied on him to be big for us in the third period.” Schenkel’s ability to rise to the occasion under pressure not only inspired confidence among his teammates but also solidified his role as a key player in the lineup.

As the final minutes ticked away, the Greyhounds added an insurance goal from Justin Cloutier, who sealed the game with an empty-net goal. The 4-2 victory was a monumental moment for the Hounds, signaling the beginning of what they hoped would be a successful season. The excitement in the locker room was palpable; players high-fived and congratulated each other, reveling in the sweetness of their first win.

Martin, who contributed significantly to the game with a goal and two assists, couldn’t contain his enthusiasm. “I’m juiced,” he exclaimed, embodying the energy that radiated throughout the team. His excitement was shared by his teammates, many of whom had experienced the frustrations of the early season but were now buoyed by the promise of what lay ahead.

In the post-game reflections, Dean acknowledged that while the victory wasn’t a “work of art,” it was precisely the kind of gritty effort that they needed to jumpstart their season. “The hockey gods rewarded a good, solid effort,” he said, summing up the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Looking ahead, the Greyhounds had a packed schedule, with their next game looming against the Sarnia Sting. With a renewed sense of confidence and momentum, fueled by the performances of newcomers like Hilton and Cardona, the Hounds were ready to face the challenges that lay ahead. Dean’s excitement about the team was infectious, and the players, feeling rejuvenated, were eager to build on their success and continue improving as the season progressed.

As they prepared for their upcoming games, Hilton’s debut served as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the world of sports. The Greyhounds had not only secured a win but had also found a player in Hilton who could potentially be a cornerstone for the franchise moving forward. The blend of new talent and returning players would be crucial in shaping their identity and performance throughout the remainder of the season.

In the end, the game was more than just a win on the scoreboard; it was a moment that encapsulated the essence of teamwork, determination, and the unyielding spirit of junior hockey. As the Soo Greyhounds looked to the future, they did so with a newfound belief in their abilities and a commitment to supporting one another, ensuring that the 2023-2024 season would be one to remember.