As the Toronto Maple Leafs hit the ice in three groups at the Ford Performance Centre on Thursday, it was clear that new head coach Craig Berube is wasting no time in implementing his aggressive north-south system during training camp. Berube is not only focused on tactics, but also on establishing a strong team identity.
“I want our team to have an identity about competing, playing hard, working, and winning 1-on-1 battles,” Berube emphasized during a break in practice. This mindset was evident throughout Thursday’s sessions, which were filled with intense battle drills to set the tone for the season ahead.
Veteran winger Ryan Reaves shared his thoughts on the grueling practice, stating, “That was up and down the sheet battles. In the corners, 1-on-1s, 2-on-2s, but still full-ice drills. The first day of leaning on guys is always hard, but when you throw it into a full practice like that it’s tough.” Reaves, entering his 15th NHL season, acknowledged the physicality of the drills but appreciated the message it sent to the team.
Reflecting on the practice, Reaves noted, “Today was in my top two and it probably wasn’t two. It was a good day, though. It sends a message to the team right away of what our identity is going to be and I think guys enjoyed that battle.”
Berube, a meticulous coach, was seen constantly checking his stopwatch to keep the team on track during the high-intensity workout. “I was really impressed,” the 58-year-old shared. “It was a tough practice, but I didn’t find the pace dropped off that much from start to end, which is very important.”
The players, visibly drained but determined, pushed through the physically demanding practice, with many hunched over their sticks as they caught their breath. The intensity of the training session showcased Berube’s commitment to establishing a hardworking and competitive team culture right from the start of his tenure with the Maple Leafs.
