Local talent was spread across the west this weekend as WHL training camps fired up for 2023.

Local players looking to open eyes at camp included, but were not limited to, Kindersley's Cam Perlinger in Portland after signing with the Winterhawks last year. A pair of Unity players visited camps in Carter Ralston playing in Regina, and Kaden Sperle also lacing up the skates out in Portland. 

Roster hopefuls from last year include Macklin's Cole Reschny who is looking for a full time spot after a set of games with the Victoria Royals last year. Cole Peardon was camping in Prince Albert, after playing 50 games as a rookie for the Raiders last season.

The Saskatoon Blades presented a taste of both scenarios locally as returning player in Rosetown's Vaughn Watterodt took the ice alongside roster hopeful Triston Mitchell-McEllhone from Flaxcombe, competing for the Kirkness Cup.

WestCentralOnline has covered the Kirkness Cup in the past.

Local resident Brian Kirkness shared the story about his brother who was with the Blades for many years. 

Watterodt and Mitchell-McEllhone were part of the competition as part of Team Warrener and Team Banham respectively.  Team Wouters claimed the 2023 title over Team Maier.

As some of these players embark on another season at the major junior level, keep an eye out for more local WHL stories throughout the year.