People often refer to years, special times, and special events as “chapters” in the book of their life. Looking ahead, one can only imagine what is yet to been written for the players of the 2001 Toronto Marlboros team during the upcoming season. The new chapters created by the team will read like a “Brand New” book.

The 2001 Marlboros have had four incredible seasons under the guidance of Head Coach Louie Gialedakis and his remarkable staff. During that time, the team has gone from a seventh place team to a number one ranked team; from a first round playoff exit to winning Regular Season and City Championships; and from unmemorable tournament play to winning numerous major tournaments.

The 2015-2016 edition of the 2001 Toronto Marlboros came together in early May at Athlete’s Zone in Mississauga, Ontario for their annual Individual Player Fitness Assessments done by Jim Reeves and his staff. But they were also beginning to write the "Brand New" chapter of the Bantam year.
As they will for the remainder of the season, the Marlboros players worked together during the assessments, inspiring each other to better themselves. It was great to see them working as a team.

Coach Gialedakis and Jim Reeves took the time to inform the parents of the importance of proper and regular fitness training. The parents were given an informative look at how an “elite athlete” should be preparing and maintaining their bodies, minds and hockey skills. The discussions detailed the level of commitment, the sacrifices needed, and the dedication to the sport required by the players and the parents over the next two years of these young men's minor hockey careers.

The results of the assessment would be compared to last year's results and shared with the individual players and their parents in order to illustrate just how far each player and their teammates have progressed over the course of last season. These results also help to set goals for each and every player during the off season. Players were informed that Jim Reeves would be re-assessing each player again on the first day of Training Camp in August at the Nottawasaga Resort Inn.

The annual Toronto Marlboros BBQ took place as always at the Etobicoke Ski Chalet in early June. All of the players and coaches in the organization along with their families gathered for a great event with the Toronto Marlboros Executive Board. It was a day that provided a chance for all of the players and their families to get together and enjoy each other’s company over a great meal.

The entire coaching staff along with Jim Reeves took time during the BBQ to meet with each and every player, along with his parents, to discuss each player’s Individual Fitness Assessment and their off season’s plans. They expressed to the players and their families that the upcoming season would have high expectations not only for the team as a whole, but for each and every player. Coach Gialedakis emphasized not only the importance  of coming into Training Camp in great shape, but also the importance of fitness, mental preparation, proper nutrition, team unity, and an overall commitment to one’s self, and the game of hockey. The off-season is where each and every player is expected to make big improvements in their overall fitness.

It was a  great night filled with fun for players, parents, and the coaching staff. The Toronto Marlboros 2001 team is looking forward to the upcoming training camp and the start of a new season/chapter/book.