Combining the hockey talents of both Pincher Creek as well as the Crowsnest Pass, a new team in the Ranchlands Hockey League-the Crow Creek Huskies-are preparing for the upcoming season.

After a disappointing season from the Peigan Cowboys, organizers have decided to step aside and take a leave of absence in the next season.

Jeff Kaupp, Cowboys goalie and now Huskies GM, is looking forward to bringing together both communities to create a new squad.

"The name Crow Creek is to combine the Crowsnest Pass and Pincher Creek," Kaupp said. "It gets those communities behind it a little more."

With a new organization behind the Huskies, Kaupp said the team will concentrate on not only being a difficult squad to compete against, but also have a focus on scoring goals.

In the last 30 years, the name Huskies has had a long history not only in the Ranchlands Hockey League, but also in minor hockey as well.

"When Pincher Creek or the Crowsnest Pass weren't able to put a team together, we combined and put a Crow Creek Huskies team together," he said, referring to his years spent playing minor hockey.

In the 1980s, the Huskies started out as a senior A team in the Ranchlands Hockey League. Once it folded, the midget level took on the name and has carried it far.

As GM, Kaupp is hoping both communities get behind the Crow Creek Huskies and is excited for camaraderie between towns.

"We're hoping that when kids are done minor hockey, they can play with us for a couple of years until they make a decision to go off somewhere else or move," he said. "At least it gives them a chance to stay in the game and stay competitive."

Age wise, players must be 18 years or older, but as Kaupp said, that is the only restriction when it comes down to competitors.

"If people still think they can come out and take a hit or two, then they're more than welcome out come out," he said.

Kaupp and the rest of the organizing committee behind the Crow Creek Huskies are welcoming back members of the Cowboys to the team.

"We need some veterans on the team for sure, so anybody who has played with the Cowboys is definitely welcome to come out," he said.

Not only are players going to be coming from Pincher Creek and the Crowsnest Pass, but also Lundbreck, Cowley, Brocket, Fort Macleod, Kainai and even Lethbridge.

Though most of the games will be held in Pincher Creek, Kaupp said they are trying to organize at least three games in the Crowsnest Pass-in order to showcase players and thank the Pass for their support.

As general manager of the new team, Kaupp said he not only brings a love of the game to the table, but also knowledge as he has played for years and has been to provincials before.

"We've got a very good understanding of what it takes to bring a good hockey team to the table," he said.

Currently, players-18 years of age or older-should get a hold of organizers as soon as possible so the Huskies know how many people are interested. By early October, all players and sponsors will be ready.

For more information, email crowcreekhuskies@gmail.com or call GM Jeff Kaupp at 403-432-0001. In addition, call Huskies president Stan Kaupp-after 5 p.m.-at 403-627-4729 for more information on the team.