The Olds Grizzlys opened their preseason schedule with a tough test, lining up against the reigning back-to-back AJHL champions, the Calgary Canucks, in a weekend doubleheader.
The first matchup took place Friday night at the Max Bell Centre in Calgary, where fans were treated to a fast-paced and evenly matched contest from start to finish. Each period ended in a tie, as neither side was willing to give an inch. Goaltender Sharky Nowek stole the spotlight, standing tall between the pipes with 44 saves, including a highlight-reel stop in the dying seconds of the third period to keep Olds alive. His effort set the stage for newly signed forward Dexter Materi, who played the hero just 46 seconds into overtime, burying the game-winner and securing the Grizzlys’ first preseason victory.
24 hours later, the two teams squared off again—this time at the Olds Sportsplex in front of an energized home crowd. The Grizzlys fed off the atmosphere and delivered a commanding performance, skating to a convincing 6–2 win. Olds’ offensive depth was on full display, with scoring contributions spread throughout the lineup. The game also carried a harder edge compared to the opener, featuring big hits, scrums after the whistle, several major penalties, and even a spirited fight that immediately followed a highlight-reel goal from forward Jordan Wales, sending the home fans to their feet.
The pair of victories not only gives Olds a strong start to the preseason but also provides a glimpse of the team’s grit, skill, and energy heading into the year.
The action continues this Thursday, September 4th, when the Grizzlys host the Fort McMurray Oil Barons at the Olds Sportsplex. Puck drop is set for 7:00 p.m.—skip the line and secure your tickets in advance here: https://tickets.oldsgrizzlys.ca/
