Defender set for first season in Trenton after an award-winning season in the PJHL with Frankford
Ty McCambridge of the Trenton Golden Hawks, finds himself in a fortunate position. Entering his first full season with the franchise, the 17-year old defenceman has the privilege of learning from head coach Derek Smith, a mentor uniquely equipped to guide blueliners.
Smith has a decade of professional hockey experience, including stints in the NHL with the Ottawa Senators and Calgary Flames. He also has an AHL Calder Cup Championship on his resume, which he won with the Binghamton Senators. The Belleville native played his entire junior and professional career as a rearguard.
"Derek is a great coach," McCambridge said. "Just being part of this organization, I'm super excited to get started. I have a full season ahead to prove myself, and hopefully, we can win it all this year."
McCambridge has steadily developed over the years. A graduate of the Quinte Red Devils, he's familiar with the hockey culture of the region.
"Growing up around here, with teams like Trenton, Wellington, and Cobourg being so great for so long, and so many talented players coming from this area, it's exciting to be where I am now," McCambridge said. "I've worked hard to get this shot, and I'm going to make the most of it."
Last season, McCambridge took a major step forward in his development, spending the year with the Frankford Huskies of the PJHL where he recorded 15 goals and 36 assists for 51 points in just 42 games. His strong play earned him the Tod Division's Top Defenceman Award, and four appearances with the Golden Hawks.
The Huskies, led by head coach Patrick Shearer, captured the Tod Division Regular Season Title with an impressive 30-8-4 record. Shearer was named PJHL Coach of the Year, helping propel Frankford to success just two seasons removed from their one-win debut season.
"We had a great group, and everyone bonded really well," McCambridge said. "Pat was great, playing in his system really helped me grow as a player. Making the jump to junior hockey and facing older guys instead of staying at the U18 level really prepared me for what's next."
In addition to his time with the Huskies, McCambridge credits his development to the summer spent training at the World Elite, a Belleville based hockey academy and performance centre.
"It was my first year at World Elite this summer, and it was great. I feel like I reached another level, working out every day and pushing myself, McCambridge said. "I think that has prepared me really well for this season."
As he now prepares for his first full season in the OJHL, McCambridge's hard work, along with guidance from experienced coaches and mentors, has set him up for success.
With the support of the entire Golden Hawks organization, the Corbyville resident is eager to make an impact and contribute to another successful season in Quinte West.
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