The preseason has officially come to a close for the Olds Grizzlys, and after five intense exhibition games, it’s clear both the AJHL and the local community have taken notice, This year’s squad means business.
On September 4th, the Grizzlys hosted the Fort McMurray Oil Barons in what turned into a high-intensity, penalty-filled showdown at the Olds Sportsplex. The two teams combined for a staggering 238 penalty minutes, but it was Olds who came out on top with a commanding 4-1 victory. Returning goaltender Connor Johnson stole the spotlight in his first preseason start, turning away 41 of 42 shots in a stellar performance. Up front, newcomer Sam Giangualano introduced himself in a big way, netting a hat trick and setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting year.
This past weekend, the Grizzlys hit the road to face the always-competitive Drumheller Dragons in their second away game of the preseason. Despite a hard-fought first period, Olds ultimately fell 6-2 in what would be their only loss of the preseason. Even in defeat, the Grizzlys showed grit and heart, highlighted by an intense moment when Keil Schmalz dropped the gloves with the AJHL’s reigning top goal scorer, Bradley Gallo. Schmalz held his own, winning the tilt and firing up the bench in the process.
Determined to bounce back, the Grizzlys hosted Drumheller the very next day for a rematch, and what a response it was. Backed by a rowdy hometown crowd, Olds dominated the Dragons in a 7-3 statement win that capped off the preseason on a high note. Dexter Materi lit the lamp three times to record a hat trick, while Sam Giangualano continued his preseason tear with four assists, bringing his total to nine points in just three games. Between the pipes, Connor Johnson delivered yet another lights-out performance, stopping 48 of 51 shots to lock down the win.
With preseason in the rear-view mirror, the Grizzlys are now setting their sights on the regular season. They’ll hit the road to open the 2025–26 AJHL campaign on Friday, September 19th, in Drayton Valley before returning home for their much-anticipated Home Hardware Home Opener on Saturday, September 20th. The puck drops at 7:00 PM at the Olds Sportsplex as they take on the Camrose Kodiaks.
