Photo VIA Exeter Hawks
Today is the first Crabby Joe’s game day of the 2026-27 season. The Exeter Hawks face off against Thameford tonight at 8pm at the South Huron Recreation Centre in Exeter.
The Exeter Hawks are getting ready to hit the ice for the start of a new season, and forward Chase Wedlake is hoping his final year with the team ends with a championship.
Wedlake says the team has banded together during its first few practices and is feeling good about the season ahead.
The Hawks have already played exhibition games against Kincardine and Clinton. Wedlake says the team was missing some players for those games, but he expects a much stronger performance with the full roster together for the home opener.
This will be Wedlake’s sixth and final season with the Hawks. He joined the team at just 16 years old and has spent his entire junior career playing in his hometown.
Wedlake says ending his HOCKEY career in Exeter makes the season extra special.
The Hawks are also bringing back several players from last season, along with a few younger players. Wedlake says the team has plenty of experienced players who can help mentor the younger members of the squad.
Exeter made it to the semifinals of the West Yeck division last season before losing in Game 6. Wedlake says the loss was disappointing, but he believes this year’s team has what it takes to make another deep playoff run.
He also says playing in front of Exeter’s strong fan base makes every home game special.
Wedlake has a message for the fans ahead of tonights game.
Go and cheer on your hometown Hawks! Come before or after the game and fuel up at Crabby Joe’s in Exeter!
