Coaching Distinction & Excellence

In June of last year, the Soo Eagles changed ownership and introduced a new Coach and GM., Bruno Bragagnolo, who led the Eagles into the new season, finishing second in their division. Bragagnolo is a seasoned coaching veteran with the Chicago Young Americans of the MWEHL (Mid West Elite Hockey League). He has coached at various levels including the U18 major squad with the Young American organization. He is very well respected by his players, both as a coach and a mentor.

Sault Ste. Marie has a great hockey tradition, the Pullar Stadium is as much a shrine and museum for hockey as it is a great arena.

The Eagles have a strong core in place, and Bragagnolo has built on that by helping players to develop to their full potential. Bruno was named NOJHL Coach of the Year. Eagles Assistant Coach Dennis Bolton has been with the team since its inception, and brings with him extensive playing & coaching expertise, as well as passion for the game.

Soo Eagles Junior A Hockey Program

The Soo Eagles team's mission is to provide all players with an excellent athletic experience and an educational opportunity by combining Junior A hockey and post secondary education to better prepare themselves for the next level of athletics and academics they chose to pursue. The Soo Eagles play 60 games per season, 28 home games, and 28 away, plus playoff games. Our travel is aboard a charted bus. All pre-game meals & post-game snacks will be paid by the club while traveling - Players receive expert off-ice conditioning and strength training. Players are provided with individual workout programs, nutrition education and post season maintenance programs.

The Venerable Pullar Stadium - Our Home Ice

The Pullar Stadium was completed in 1939, and is still considered one of the best arenas to play in. Hockey greats Gordie Howe, Ted lindsay, Sid Abel and Alex Delvechio have skated at the Pullar. The Pullar is known for its"good ice" and takes pride in maintaining that tradition. The Pullar is truly a piece of history in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.The Eagles averaged over 500 fans per game in the 10/11 season. We also had over 1200 fans at home playoff games.

Education for the Season and the Future

The Sault Ste. Marie area offers may fine secondary opportunities. All players are asked to be taking classes to better prepare them for an NCAA hockey future. Sault Michigan is home to Lake Superior State University, while Algoma University and Sault College are located in our sister city, Sault Ontario. LSSU offers diverse programs and degrees as does Bay Mills Community College. Many players choose on-line courses for their flexibility. With minimal road travel, athletics does not interfere with educational instruction. The Soo Eagles have strong ties with NCAA schools and work diligently to promote our promising graduate players. We are about hockey development, but we are equally concerned with academic excellence.

Medical Staff

A physician is in attendance for all home games for the assessment and care of our players. A trainer travels with the team for all away games.

Billet Housing and the Community

Housing is arranged by the Billet Coordinator for out-of-town players. Prospective billets are screened prior to hosting a player. Players are expected to be well behaved at all times, and respect the "house rules" as determined between the billeting family and the player -and comply with team curfews.

The City of Sault Ste. Marie is a friendly, safe, tight-knit community. Players can expect to be recognized and acknowledged in and around the city within weeks of arrival. The Soo Eagles are committed to community service. Players will be exposed to numerous opportunities for volunteering. A dress code is in effect for all home games and players are given a team track suit upon making the roster.

The Soo Eagles and Our Preparation for the Future

The Soo Eagles have an extensive scouting system in place. We have a very diverse roster with players that have played across North America. We look for committed players.

The Soo Eagles and Player Exposure

The Soo Eagles have a very strong marketing program and all players get lots of media exposure. With a strong network in place throughout the world, our players receive exposure to our fans, the media and scouts.

The Soo Eagles Tryout Information

There will be tryout camps held in different locations beginning in late May with the final camp in August.

• Farmington Hill, MI
  
• Sault Ste. Marie, MI