Geoff Rollins was hired as interim head coach of the Calgary Canucks late last season, taking over from Mat Robinson and he helped guide the Canucks into the Alberta Junior Hockey League playoffs. Rollins is back this season with the interim removed from his title. He’s excited to put his stamp on this organization. “I’ve got to say how impressive it was last year for those guys to be able to buy into that under the circumstances in such a short period of time,” said the 44-year-old. “When I talked about having the right guys back, you know we’ve kind of picked up where we left off (last season),” Rollins said. “Those guys are great leaders and were great last year and they’re going to be great this year. That always helps when you have a core group of guys.” High expectations One of those veterans Rollins is referring to is 20-year-old forward Nick Anisimovicz. This is his last year of junior hockey and he wants to go out with a bang. Anisimovicz has high expectations. “(We want to be) Centennial Cup champions,” he said “Might as well go for it. I think we’ve got a good group so far and we’re going to keep going for it.” Woulds back to full health Another player Rollins will count on is 20-year-old defenceman Dylan Woulds, who is looking forward to getting back on the ice with his teammates in game action. Woulds was limited to just 17 games last season after suffering a knee injury. He says that’s now behind him. “I feel great,” he said. “I’ve been working out and strengthening it. I feel much better and honestly can’t wait to start the season. It feels almost like a new knee.” Hoping to make an impression The Canucks will have some new faces in the lineup this season. One player hoping to crack the roster is 16-year-old defenceman Jack Bissoon. He played with the Triple “A” North Stars last season and would like to make the move down the hall into the Canucks dressing room this season. “You know obviously the expectation is to make it,” said Bissoon. “I think I can be a contributor on the team no matter what the role is. If I’m one of the defenceman who has to grind in the corners or get pucks out. If they need me to block shots on the penalty kill, anything they need me to do I’m willing to do.” “You know I’m a new guy coming into the league and I want to make a good impression with the veterans and gain their respect.” The Canucks open up the pre-season on Saturday as they’re in Drumheller to take on the Dragons.
