5 THINGS TO WATCH IN STATION NATION

The 2009-2010 season is upon us, and with such an exciting off-season there are lots of things to watch on and off the ice this season. Here are the top five in no particular order:

1. The Euro's: Tomas Jurco and Stanislav Galiev are sure to cause a lot of excitement among Sea Dogs fans and junior hockey fans in general. The offensive minded European forwards are cleared to play and ready for there QMJHL debut tomorrow. Jurco, the Sea Dogs 2nd pick in the import draft, had an impressive pre-season with six points and has already made The Hockey News Hot List. Galiev has yet to play in game action but is touted as an NHL first round draft pick this season.

2. Jake Allen: With the Montreal Junior predicted to finish in the basement, all-star goalie Jake Allen appears to be on his way out come Christmas. Like all good junior players, rumors quickly begin about them being traded to there home town teams. With a large crop of young talent on the Sea Dogs 50 man roster, the goalie could easily be heading to Saint John. But will the Dogs trade potential 2012 Memorial Cup assets?

3. Crazy Canucks: Neither Steven Anthony or Yann Sauve have lived up to the expectations laid upon them. Both are former QMJHL first round picks as well as Vancouver Canucks property. Both players will be out to prove doubters wrong and live up to there potential.

4. Rivalry Cup: Forget the off ice stuff, this season looks to be very promising on ice with both Moncton and Saint John expected to contend in the Atlantic Division. Since the Sea Dogs came on to the scene in 2005, the could be rivalry hasn't lived up to expectations with the teams being at opposite ends of the standings. Lets hope the two teams separated by a stretch of highway can get it going this season.

5. Turk and his crew: Gerard Gallant and Mike Kelly lead a new era of Sea Dogs hockey into the upcoming season. With so many changes the Sea Dogs will look very different with there on ice play. The Turk likes his physical play and should bring a lot of excitement to Harbour Station.

Honorable Mentions: new mascot, new Reebok Edge Jerseys, the next generation of defensemen.