The first preseason game of 2023 is officially in the books, and the Niverville Nighthawks came out on top, defeating the Kam River Fighting Walleye by a score of 3–1 in front of a home crowd at the CRRC.

The preseason is an opportunity for the coaches to kick the tires on a team that has a lot of new talent. And it was a unique chance to take on Kam River, a visiting team from the Superior International Junior Hockey League.

Niverville kicked off the scoring early in the first period when forward Michael Tanchak found the back of the net at 3:19. The goal was assistant by Caleb Lepitre and returning defenceman Eric Martin.

The Nighthawks managed to widen the lead early in the second period—coincidentally, the goal once again happening at exactly 3:19. The counter came from forward Michael Debrito. Tanchak earned an assist for his second point on the night. Newcomer Gavin Holod also assisted on the play.

Kam River made it interesting less than a minute later, when Sam Sargent scored for the visitors, narrowing the lead to 2–1.

At 8:59, Niverville completed the scoring with a final tally from forward Regan Anderson, assisted by Avery Laliberte, a native of Lorette, and Cobe Delaney.

Later in September, The Citizen will publish a more detailed recap of the preseason, including reflections from the players and coaching staff.

In the meantime, preseason play will continue this upcoming weekend with a trip to Selkirk on Sunday afternoon to face the Steelers. The Steelers will return the favour with a visit to the CRRC on Tuesday, September 12 for the rematch.