The Stars were late starting their training camp due ice not available at the Joe Thornton Community Centre until after Labour Day . The Stars then squeezed in practices and five exhibition games, before the GOJHL season opened.
"We have some catching up to do and we're trying to do that in leaps and bounds," Daniels said. "The players have some catching up to do. They got a little rusty over that period."
Only two players remain from the 2019-20 team, therefore many new faces for head coach Rob Coutts and his staff.
"We're learning every step of the way," Daniels said. "As long as all of the players are improving and the product is improving on the ice for the fans it's all a good thing. Our team is going to be fast and young. We're very young. We have some good talent that we're very happy with. It'll be a work in progress but we're really looking forward to it."
Trent Rickwood, Owen Willmore, Liam Kidder and Dylan Watson will be skating for their home town team.
"That's huge for us," said Daniels. "The minor hockey program in St. Thomas is doing their job. It's good for the St. Thomas kids to play at home in front of fans and not have to travel."
Jackson Dobbin hails from Thorndale and Jack Weber comes from Lambeth.
Scouting players for this year's roster was challenging as there hasn't been any action to watch since February of 2020.
"Recruiting was very difficult because there weren't games going on, but everybody is in the same boat," said Daniels. "We're very happy with our team and our selections and hopefully we can build from here."
The GM expects growing pains with a young team, featuring 11 players born in 2004 and six in 2003.
"I would be more than happy if we're a .500 team at Christmas and then peak from there," Daniels said, referring to the goal of every team to excel in the playoffs.
For opening night, jitters two years in the making are expected.
"A lot of nerves for all of them because they haven't really played a game that has meant anything," said Daniels. "Even last year, it was just a few games exhibition games of 11 on 11. It didn't feel like hockey. There was no body contact. Now it's a little more serious. I think there will be quite a few nerves for everybody involved. We haven't done this in a few years. It'll be good to get back at it."
The Stars will likely have their leadership group in place by game time.
That will keep Walker busy stitching letters on those jerseys.