Windsor Spitfires 2024-25 Season Thread, Part I

frontsfan67

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Dec 3, 2022
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Belchetz keeps scoring. Runaway favourite for rookie of the year obviously being the #1 pick. Wonder if he scores 40 goals

My guess is in the 30s
 
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thespitslurker

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Aug 29, 2024
16
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Yeah Im getting more and more impressed by him. Initially I wasnt sure if we should pick Wassilyn at 1 but with the right teammates and lineup this year I think we made a good pick. The players around him will totally help him succeed. Greentree, Davis, Abraham, Spellacy, Protas, etc. Play him with any of those guys and he will excel. Looking good! Go Spits Go!
 

OHLTG

Registered User
Nov 18, 2008
16,925
9,214
behind lens, Ontario
A few thoughts from tonight...

- Not a bad crowd overall. There was a lineup right at 5:30 when the doors opened and they slowly/steadily came in. I've read the complex holds 1,000 and I'd guess there were 800-900 in attendance? It was a beautiful rink overall.

The good:

- Belchetz. He makes this game look easy; not from a coast-to-coast, speed-to-burn view but he's aggressive on the forecheck, he uses his linemates, and he'll quickly make his move and it's in the back of the net.
- Nesbitt with another good game. He's not likely to be the 30-goal first-rounder but he's going to give you production and physical play. I'm warming up to him for sure.
- Outwater is another one who's making me take a second look. He seems much more comfortable out there, using his size to create chances.
- Rookie wise, Gaymes was throwing the body around and getting in people's faces. Garden has incredible speed and doesn't give up on the forecheck. Once he adjusts, he's going to be really fun to watch.
- Walton continues to use his size well and it feels like a light-switch has been flicked. He's night-and-day physically, almost looks like he's relishing the idea of being that physical type. I'm curious as to what the difference has been.
- Hicks and Manzo both looked comfortable out there, albeit young.
- Eichler with a couple of bit hits plus got into a scrum with a bigger Colosimo. The kid has no fear and, if he can stay disciplined, I appreciate it.
- Froggett saw 60 minutes and looked very good. I didn't get a great look at the goals from the other end but I'm more confident with him in goal than I am Costanzo, to be honest.

The Not-so-Good:

- Six PPs against can't happen. It felt like they were handing the Firebirds a chance to get back into it.
- My gut says Lemieux is destined for LaSalle. I want to notice him out there, but it's not happening. I'd say the same for Brocklehurst, too (LaSalle wise). He has speed and throws the body but I think a season in Jr B would do him wonders.
- The win was overall bittersweet; up 3-0, tied 3-3, get the 5-3 win. Allowing Flint to come back is not great but it's also a good lesson that you can't let up.


Just thinking out loud here about the cuts to come...

F - Spellacy, Morneau, Abraham, Gaymes, Protas, Belchetz, Greentree, Nesbitt, Davis, Outwater. That's 10. Bubble - Greenwell, Stewart, Lemieux, Morgan, Martin, Garden, Brocklehurst.

Keep... Garden and Martin up, that's 12. Who are your "in case of injury, break glass" guys?

D - Cristoforo, Eichler, Mathurin, Walton, Woodall. That's five. Manzo probably stays up, making it six. Winegard, Lavigne, Hicks, Hjelholt all going for one spot, the rest to Jr. B. I don't know...

G - This one is simpler - it should be Froggett/Windbiel but will Bowler do that?
 

KyGuy9

Registered User
Sep 7, 2012
772
362
A few thoughts from tonight...

- Not a bad crowd overall. There was a lineup right at 5:30 when the doors opened and they slowly/steadily came in. I've read the complex holds 1,000 and I'd guess there were 800-900 in attendance? It was a beautiful rink overall.

The good:

- Belchetz. He makes this game look easy; not from a coast-to-coast, speed-to-burn view but he's aggressive on the forecheck, he uses his linemates, and he'll quickly make his move and it's in the back of the net.
- Nesbitt with another good game. He's not likely to be the 30-goal first-rounder but he's going to give you production and physical play. I'm warming up to him for sure.
- Outwater is another one who's making me take a second look. He seems much more comfortable out there, using his size to create chances.
- Rookie wise, Gaymes was throwing the body around and getting in people's faces. Garden has incredible speed and doesn't give up on the forecheck. Once he adjusts, he's going to be really fun to watch.
- Walton continues to use his size well and it feels like a light-switch has been flicked. He's night-and-day physically, almost looks like he's relishing the idea of being that physical type. I'm curious as to what the difference has been.
- Hicks and Manzo both looked comfortable out there, albeit young.
- Eichler with a couple of bit hits plus got into a scrum with a bigger Colosimo. The kid has no fear and, if he can stay disciplined, I appreciate it.
- Froggett saw 60 minutes and looked very good. I didn't get a great look at the goals from the other end but I'm more confident with him in goal than I am Costanzo, to be honest.

The Not-so-Good:

- Six PPs against can't happen. It felt like they were handing the Firebirds a chance to get back into it.
- My gut says Lemieux is destined for LaSalle. I want to notice him out there, but it's not happening. I'd say the same for Brocklehurst, too (LaSalle wise). He has speed and throws the body but I think a season in Jr B would do him wonders.
- The win was overall bittersweet; up 3-0, tied 3-3, get the 5-3 win. Allowing Flint to come back is not great but it's also a good lesson that you can't let up.


Just thinking out loud here about the cuts to come...

F - Spellacy, Morneau, Abraham, Gaymes, Protas, Belchetz, Greentree, Nesbitt, Davis, Outwater. That's 10. Bubble - Greenwell, Stewart, Lemieux, Morgan, Martin, Garden, Brocklehurst.

Keep... Garden and Martin up, that's 12. Who are your "in case of injury, break glass" guys?

D - Cristoforo, Eichler, Mathurin, Walton, Woodall. That's five. Manzo probably stays up, making it six. Winegard, Lavigne, Hicks, Hjelholt all going for one spot, the rest to Jr. B. I don't know...

G - This one is simpler - it should be Froggett/Windbiel but will Bowler do that?

Can Lemieux be in Jr. B? I remember reading something about the team's first 2 picks having to be rostered, though I don't know the details of it. Still confused by the 16 year old rule - 3 can play a game, but 4 can be rostered? I figured if Belchetz and Lemieux had to be locks for the roster, Garden likely having a spot promised to sign, that left Hicks and Brocklehurst in Jr. B by default with Windbiel rostered but dressing for minimal games with one of Lemieux/Garden scratched for those games.
 

northwest

Registered User
Apr 21, 2024
9
14
Yeah Im getting more and more impressed by him. Initially I wasnt sure if we should pick Wassilyn at 1 but with the right teammates and lineup this year I think we made a good pick. The players around him will totally help him succeed. Greentree, Davis, Abraham, Spellacy, Protas, etc. Play him with any of those guys and he will excel. Looking good! Go Spits Go!
Belchetz was definitely the right pick. Wassilyn is good but isn't as much of a play maker. I completely agree that with the right players around Belchetz it's going to help him get even better. It's going to be fun to watch.
 

northwest

Registered User
Apr 21, 2024
9
14
A few thoughts from tonight...

- Not a bad crowd overall. There was a lineup right at 5:30 when the doors opened and they slowly/steadily came in. I've read the complex holds 1,000 and I'd guess there were 800-900 in attendance? It was a beautiful rink overall.

The good:

- Belchetz. He makes this game look easy; not from a coast-to-coast, speed-to-burn view but he's aggressive on the forecheck, he uses his linemates, and he'll quickly make his move and it's in the back of the net.
- Nesbitt with another good game. He's not likely to be the 30-goal first-rounder but he's going to give you production and physical play. I'm warming up to him for sure.
- Outwater is another one who's making me take a second look. He seems much more comfortable out there, using his size to create chances.
- Rookie wise, Gaymes was throwing the body around and getting in people's faces. Garden has incredible speed and doesn't give up on the forecheck. Once he adjusts, he's going to be really fun to watch.
- Walton continues to use his size well and it feels like a light-switch has been flicked. He's night-and-day physically, almost looks like he's relishing the idea of being that physical type. I'm curious as to what the difference has been.
- Hicks and Manzo both looked comfortable out there, albeit young.
- Eichler with a couple of bit hits plus got into a scrum with a bigger Colosimo. The kid has no fear and, if he can stay disciplined, I appreciate it.
- Froggett saw 60 minutes and looked very good. I didn't get a great look at the goals from the other end but I'm more confident with him in goal than I am Costanzo, to be honest.

The Not-so-Good:

- Six PPs against can't happen. It felt like they were handing the Firebirds a chance to get back into it.
- My gut says Lemieux is destined for LaSalle. I want to notice him out there, but it's not happening. I'd say the same for Brocklehurst, too (LaSalle wise). He has speed and throws the body but I think a season in Jr B would do him wonders.
- The win was overall bittersweet; up 3-0, tied 3-3, get the 5-3 win. Allowing Flint to come back is not great but it's also a good lesson that you can't let up.


Just thinking out loud here about the cuts to come...

F - Spellacy, Morneau, Abraham, Gaymes, Protas, Belchetz, Greentree, Nesbitt, Davis, Outwater. That's 10. Bubble - Greenwell, Stewart, Lemieux, Morgan, Martin, Garden, Brocklehurst.

Keep... Garden and Martin up, that's 12. Who are your "in case of injury, break glass" guys?

D - Cristoforo, Eichler, Mathurin, Walton, Woodall. That's five. Manzo probably stays up, making it six. Winegard, Lavigne, Hicks, Hjelholt all going for one spot, the rest to Jr. B. I don't know...

G - This one is simpler - it should be Froggett/Windbiel but will Bowler do that?
I like your thoughts but I'm not seeing Windbiel there yet. Needs some development and can be inconsistent based on what I saw. He's also a bit clunky at times but he's 16 so he has time on his side.

I was referring to Froggett as the tandem instead of Costanzo. I was not questioning Newlove. Windbiel being here was decided in the summer although he has played well especially in his 2nd game. Newlove played 1/2 a game and was sent to Georgetown so those decisions were already made. Likely to see season start with Froggett and JC along with Windbiel dressing and getting in every 3rd or 4th game. There is a minimum games for Windbiel. 20% which rounds up to 14 games of the 68 that he must play. Dressing on the bench does not count towards the total.
I was checking the OJHL tonight and noticed Newlove has played a few games this season for Georgetown. Thanks for pointing me in that direction.
 
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OHLTG

Registered User
Nov 18, 2008
16,925
9,214
behind lens, Ontario
Can Lemieux be in Jr. B? I remember reading something about the team's first 2 picks having to be rostered, though I don't know the details of it. Still confused by the 16 year old rule - 3 can play a game, but 4 can be rostered? I figured if Belchetz and Lemieux had to be locks for the roster, Garden likely having a spot promised to sign, that left Hicks and Brocklehurst in Jr. B by default with Windbiel rostered but dressing for minimal games with one of Lemieux/Garden scratched for those games.

Good point, I forgot about Lemieux being the second one. If that's the case, then he's your "break glass" guy?!

I like Windbiel but I do think he's a bit raw. I still think he makes it as the back-up, or at least gets in his minimum games somehow.
 

DetSpitsFan

Registered User
Nov 20, 2016
1,223
1,967
Man, I’m worried about Costanzo. I’ve been on team Joey, but I think we have better options.

In my mind, we roll Frogget started, Costanzo backup to start with Windbiel as a 3rd. Play some regular season, with our (close to) full team, and if Froggett still appears the clear #1, which I feel he does now, it’s time to get in Windbiel and give Froggett the reigns. I need a larger sample size before I go with a tandem that has 2 games of OHL regular season experience.

Frogget has a year of eligibility on Costanzo. Will he be better than Joey next year…? That’s what matters. If we fix some D systems, goalies are getting good work, but we lose a couple games due to inexperience, I’m cool with it.

We can make some noise, but I think we’re all on the same page, this year isn’t our run.

Also Belchetz is doing a lot out there while the Spits are missing their top 4 forwards. Excited to see what he does with more weapons around him.

I think Garden should make it. I’ve seen little of the preseason, but what I’ve noticed he’s been fun to watch. I also think Martin gets the call. He’s nothing overly special, but he’s a big body, that doesn’t really do a lot wrong out there. Nothing flashy either, but I’ve liked him. He’s got a purpose and I feel he plays to his strengths knowing he’s not a top 6 guy.
 

hockeylegend11

Registered User
Sep 11, 2010
16,028
4,228
With the 5-3 win last night Spits are now 4-0 in exhibition play so far,last were 1-3 at the same time,wound up 1-4.
Improvement in many areas especially goals for and goals against,last year after 5 games Spits scored 16 goals for a 3.20 average, this year,25 after 4 for a 6.25 average in goals for,goals against they allowed 26 in 5 games for an average of 5.20,this season its 14 for an average of 3.50.
What impresses me more is,3 of the top 4 goal scorers last year Greentree, Abraham, Spellacy have 0 goals so far they scored 87 as a trio, granted they have only played 2 games for Greentree,1 for Spellacy, 3 for Abraham, and all are averaging point per game anyways,Davis has played only 1 game has 1 goal,and Protas played 1 game and scored 3.
Morneau, Belchetz, and Nesbitt have been beasts offensive wise so far in camp and most of the youngsters,Garden, Manzo,Hicks, Lemieux have been very impressive.
No doubt work to be done on the PK and PP but once everyone is back I am sure both areas will improve, take less penalties, create more PP opps because of the skill level once everyone in the lineup, I too was a Joey guy,but we can't ignore what Froggett has done so,was one of the best goalies in camp the 2 years, and he has earned his shot.
Think bright days are ahead.
 

ohloutsider

Registered User
Jan 13, 2016
7,250
8,460
Rock & Hardplace
A few thoughts from tonight...

- Not a bad crowd overall. There was a lineup right at 5:30 when the doors opened and they slowly/steadily came in. I've read the complex holds 1,000 and I'd guess there were 800-900 in attendance? It was a beautiful rink overall.

The good:

- Belchetz. He makes this game look easy; not from a coast-to-coast, speed-to-burn view but he's aggressive on the forecheck, he uses his linemates, and he'll quickly make his move and it's in the back of the net.
- Nesbitt with another good game. He's not likely to be the 30-goal first-rounder but he's going to give you production and physical play. I'm warming up to him for sure.
- Outwater is another one who's making me take a second look. He seems much more comfortable out there, using his size to create chances.
- Rookie wise, Gaymes was throwing the body around and getting in people's faces. Garden has incredible speed and doesn't give up on the forecheck. Once he adjusts, he's going to be really fun to watch.
- Walton continues to use his size well and it feels like a light-switch has been flicked. He's night-and-day physically, almost looks like he's relishing the idea of being that physical type. I'm curious as to what the difference has been.
- Hicks and Manzo both looked comfortable out there, albeit young.
- Eichler with a couple of bit hits plus got into a scrum with a bigger Colosimo. The kid has no fear and, if he can stay disciplined, I appreciate it.
- Froggett saw 60 minutes and looked very good. I didn't get a great look at the goals from the other end but I'm more confident with him in goal than I am Costanzo, to be honest.

The Not-so-Good:

- Six PPs against can't happen. It felt like they were handing the Firebirds a chance to get back into it.
- My gut says Lemieux is destined for LaSalle. I want to notice him out there, but it's not happening. I'd say the same for Brocklehurst, too (LaSalle wise). He has speed and throws the body but I think a season in Jr B would do him wonders.
- The win was overall bittersweet; up 3-0, tied 3-3, get the 5-3 win. Allowing Flint to come back is not great but it's also a good lesson that you can't let up.


Just thinking out loud here about the cuts to come...

F - Spellacy, Morneau, Abraham, Gaymes, Protas, Belchetz, Greentree, Nesbitt, Davis, Outwater. That's 10. Bubble - Greenwell, Stewart, Lemieux, Morgan, Martin, Garden, Brocklehurst.

Keep... Garden and Martin up, that's 12. Who are your "in case of injury, break glass" guys?

D - Cristoforo, Eichler, Mathurin, Walton, Woodall. That's five. Manzo probably stays up, making it six. Winegard, Lavigne, Hicks, Hjelholt all going for one spot, the rest to Jr. B. I don't know...

G - This one is simpler - it should be Froggett/Windbiel but will Bowler do that?
I like your take here but Martin has to make the team. Spits are young and you need that guy to police the shenanigans from other teams. I really like Hicks but he might fall victim to a numbers game. Lemieux likely makes it due to his draft position but he seems like he is the one that needs some jrb time.

I'm going to assume Joey starts Saturday night. If he does it is likely his most important start in awhile. He needs to prove he is the guy. If he is still struggling in preseason how is he going to be once other teams top guns get back?

Froggett has been OK but can he stand up to the skill level of the regular season? I hope the answer is yes because without ohl caliber goaltending this could be another tough year.
I'm not all doom and gloom as I'm real excited about watching the forward group and the D group looks better just having concerns between the pipes. Be safe.
 

Cherrydon

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Jan 4, 2019
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Can Lemieux be in Jr. B? I remember reading something about the team's first 2 picks having to be rostered, though I don't know the details of it. Still confused by the 16 year old rule - 3 can play a game, but 4 can be rostered? I figured if Belchetz and Lemieux had to be locks for the roster, Garden likely having a spot promised to sign, that left Hicks and Brocklehurst in Jr. B by default with Windbiel rostered but dressing for minimal games with one of Lemieux/Garden scratched for those games.
The first 2 picks if signed must be on A cards and rostered. You can sign as many as you want as wild cards from any of the remaining rounds. Only can keep 4 on the regular roster. 10 game rule in effect for card type.
 
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RayzorIsDull

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Nov 16, 2007
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I like your take here but Martin has to make the team. Spits are young and you need that guy to police the shenanigans from other teams. I really like Hicks but he might fall victim to a numbers game. Lemieux likely makes it due to his draft position but he seems like he is the one that needs some jrb time.

I'm going to assume Joey starts Saturday night. If he does it is likely his most important start in awhile. He needs to prove he is the guy. If he is still struggling in preseason how is he going to be once other teams top guns get back?

Froggett has been OK but can he stand up to the skill level of the regular season? I hope the answer is yes because without ohl caliber goaltending this could be another tough year.
I'm not all doom and gloom as I'm real excited about watching the forward group and the D group looks better just having concerns between the pipes. Be safe.
Why does Martin "need" to make the team? He's 19 he probably won't be an OA. He has shown a penchant for being undisciplined. Does he raise the floor or ceiling for this team? There's a case to be made he's on the roster based on family connections. For an organization that wants a reset and culture change rostering a guy based on who he knows and not what he does isn't a good precedent. There are better players available I'm sure.
 
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ohloutsider

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Why does Martin "need" to make the team? He's 19 he probably won't be an OA. He has shown a penchant for being undisciplined. Does he raise the floor or ceiling for this team? There's a case to be made he's on the roster based on family connections. For an organization that wants a reset and culture change rostering a guy based on who he knows and not what he does isn't a good precedent. There are better players available I'm sure.
Martin is not there to make the team " better". He is there to make space for the younger players to get better.
In London Bolton is on the team due to family connections and is not there to make the team "better". If London can use this logic why not Windsor? We keep hearing they are the model franchise?
If not Martin then Wingard needs to be that guy but playing D Wingard is more of a liability. Be safe.
 

RayzorIsDull

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Martin is not there to make the team " better". He is there to make space for the younger players to get better.
In London Bolton is on the team due to family connections and is not there to make the team "better". If London can use this logic why not Windsor? We keep hearing they are the model franchise?
If not Martin then Wingard needs to be that guy but playing D Wingard is more of a liability. Be safe.
Are you talking Ryder? He's on 06 so he can return. Sawyer on the other hand was the one always getting suspended but he also got a 2 year AHL contract. Family connections help but if you get a camp invite and a contract out if someone sees value. London had litany of star players and nhl draft picks. They also set a record for SHG and we're a top PK team. If Windsor can get 20 SHG this year a top PK with taking a lot of penalties then sure. Unfortunately judging by the comments this isn't that type of team at least for this year.

They're the model franchise because they draft and develop well, have very good goaltending and hit on imports. They even have terrible draft picks but because they draft well overall it doesn't hurt. Look at the Spits low on 07s not a great draft. If you want the London model that's great. Of course you can't do that if Bowler can't be your GM. Last year is proof of that unfortunately. Don't be on your 4th coach since opening night 2022. Stability and continuity is how this franchise gets better.
 
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FireBall959

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Apr 11, 2015
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Why does Martin "need" to make the team? He's 19 he probably won't be an OA. He has shown a penchant for being undisciplined. Does he raise the floor or ceiling for this team? There's a case to be made he's on the roster based on family connections. For an organization that wants a reset and culture change rostering a guy based on who he knows and not what he does isn't a good precedent. There are better players available I'm sure.
So who makes the team if not Martin and does he raise the ceiling. I think he pretty much gave his reasoning on whyhe needs to make the team
 
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ohloutsider

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Jan 13, 2016
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Are you talking Ryder? He's on 06 so he can return. Sawyer on the other hand was the one always getting suspended but he also got a 2 year AHL contract. Family connections help but if you get a camp invite and a contract out if someone sees value. London had litany of star players and nhl draft picks. They also set a record for SHG and we're a top PK team. If Windsor can get 20 SHG this year a top PK with taking a lot of penalties then sure. Unfortunately judging by the comments this isn't that type of team at least for this year.

They're the model franchise because they draft and develop well, have very good goaltending and hit on imports. They even have terrible draft picks but because they draft well overall it doesn't hurt. Look at the Spits low on 07s not a great draft. If you want the London model that's great. Of course you can't do that if Bowler can't be your GM. Last year is proof of that unfortunately. Don't be on your 4th coach since opening night 2022. Stability and continuity is how this franchise gets better.
London does not draft well. They trade well and develop/ coach well.
 
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RayzorIsDull

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So who makes the team if not Martin and does he raise the ceiling. I think he pretty much gave his reasoning on whyhe needs to make the team
No the person doesn't necessarily raise the ceiling because we are talking about development and playing young guys this year.

Greentree
Spellacy
Morneau
Abraham
Protas
Nesbitt
Outwater
Belchetz
Davis
Garden
Lemieux
Gaymes

Martin can be your 13th forward, find another 05 forward that can help this year and next year. Still think you will see Lemieux he was drafted where he was for a reason and he has a connection to Newbury.
 

ohloutsider

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Jan 13, 2016
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No the person doesn't necessarily raise the ceiling because we are talking about development and playing young guys this year.

Greentree
Spellacy
Morneau
Abraham
Protas
Nesbitt
Outwater
Belchetz
Davis
Garden
Lemieux
Gaymes

Martin can be your 13th forward, find another 05 forward that can help this year and next year. Still think you will see Lemieux he was drafted where he was for a reason and he has a connection to Newbury.
I can see Gaymes out and Martin in.
 

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