GREELEY, CO -- Northern Colorado has generated a lot of buzz around its franchise and the season hasn’t even started yet.

With a new rink and the removal of Junior from its name – the team will now be known as just the Eagles – excitement is building for the season ahead.

Most importantly, the roster features older, more experienced players.

“We have guys with a lot of experience from different leagues and we return 10 from last year,” head coach Steve Haddon said. “It’s just a matter of seeing where everyone fits in, and that’s up to me. We’re looking forward to getting started.”

Northern Colorado won’t rush the camp process. It will last a month and will include practice and preseason games.

“With a month, you have a chance to see what guys are made of and give them a chance to get used to the new systems and environment here,” Haddon said. “We feel like we have a lot of good character guys and I hope the decisions are tough to make. That’s what you want.”

Haddon pointed out exhibition games provide those trying out with a bigger stage to prove themselves on.

“You really get to show what you have as a player, and you want to see your players as much as possible and give them every opportunity to make the team,” Haddon said.

Northern Colorado has set the bar high for itself in its first five seasons, winning division titles and having success in the postseason. It’s also done a great job of developing talent, with nearly 60 moving on to the next level over the past five years, including 12 this year.

“We strive every year to win and develop players. That won’t change,” Haddon said. “Our expectations are always high. We’ve done a lot of good things here, but we want to be better every year. We expect a lot out of our organization.”