The Dundee Hurricanes closed up their preseason preparation for the 2012 campaign this past Sunday at Dawson Park. After narrowly missing out on the playoffs by virtue of another team drawing a fixture, the Hurricanes have regrouped during the winter. Having lost key personnel to retirement, such as running back Mahamadou Niakate and linebacker Lars Halford, the coaching team knew they had to recruit well.

“It’s always a concern coming in to preseason, how many new faces are going to be in to replace the retirees?” General Manager Charlie Campbell candidly said. “This year, we’ve seen a large influx of new talent and this has fused very well with the returning crew.”

Week by week, the rookies have found their feet and are in the running for starting berths for the upcoming season. With depth across the squad high, it’s a welcome dilemma for Head Coach Ross MacPherson to deal with. “As recently as two seasons ago, we were playing players out of position and both ways just to field a squad. This year, we have the option and opportunity to rotate the positions to keep fresh personnel on the field. Sure, come the first game some will feel disappointed not to start but everyone has pushed very hard for spots and they will all get their chance to shine.”

With the first game being followed by 3 weeks of training, the chance to quickly fix and implement new things within the team will be there. When asked how he felt about his young squad going in to the new season, MacPherson stated “I haven’t felt this good going in to the first game of the season for a long time. This squad is young, but it is hungry and ready. We will go in to this season prepared and up for the challenge!”

The Dundee Hurricanes first game is at Dawson Park, this Sunday 15th April with a 2.30pm kick off. A big crowd is anticipated and preparations for the year are under way.