The Toronto Marlies will open their 2024-25 training camp on Tuesday, Oct. 1, building on the progress of last season and introducing exciting changes to the organization. Under new leadership, with key players returning and new prospects hoping to break into the lineup, fans have much to look forward to as the Marlies get underway.
Last season was a rollercoaster, with the Marlies finishing strong in the North Division despite some defensive weaknesses. However, the Marlies faltered in the playoffs, bowing out in the first round of the Calder Cup Playoffs after struggling to maintain their regular-season momentum.
Anticipation for the season is high as head coach, John Gruden, enters his second season with the Marlies. Gruden is supported by returning assistant coach Michael Dyck and joined by newly appointed assistant coach, Steve Sullivan.
Gruden is known for his expertise in player development, particularly on defence. Marlies fans are counting on him to tighten Toronto’s game and foster a more structured approach.
Players aren’t just chasing the Calder Cup, but also a potential call-up from the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Marlies’ NHL affiliate. Last season, goaltender Joseph Woll was called up from the Marlies and earned a spot on the Leafs’ regular roster for the 2023-24 season.
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As the Toronto Maple Leafs iron out their own lineup, how many of the Marlies star veterans are set to return is still being determined.
“I’m looking forward to being around the team, the facility and working in practice to see what we have; working together to bring out the best in each other,” said Ryan Tverberg, a returning veteran player. “Mentally and physically, I’m just trying to get my body right and prepare so I can perform at my highest level.”
The 22-year-old forward, who played his first full season with the Marlies last year after signing an entry-level contract with the Leafs, impressed fans and teammates alike with his two-way play and competitive spirit.
Tverberg’s speed, defensive reliability and scoring touch were some of the notable attributes that earned him AHL Rookie of the Month honours in January 2024. He scored 15 points that month, including five points (four goals, one assist) in a single game.
“I think being more familiar with the team will allow me to take on more of a leadership role and be more confident on and off the ice,” said Tverberg. “Using last year’s trust in my teammates and coaches, I plan on doing the things that make me a good player more often. With that trust, I want to grow as a complete player so I can be used in all situations.”
Tverberg is currently with the Leafs, making his presence felt in exhibition games.
“Camp is just another chance to show myself in front of all the coaches and staff so they know I’m capable of competing and playing in whatever role they want to throw at me,” he said.
As call-ups and trades create gaps in the lineup, new prospects are eager to make their breakout debut at camp and earn a spot for the upcoming season.
Kyle Bollers, a former TMU Bold standout and Cincinnati Cyclones call-up, said the biggest adjustment he expects from university hockey to the Marlies camp will be “the physicality, speed and size of the other players.”
“My focus at camp is just to be myself,” said Bollers, who is taking a shot at a roster spot this season. “I’ve worked hard over the past four years to gain confidence as a player, and I want to continue playing with that confidence.”
In his final year at TMU, the assistant captain scored an impressive 42 points in 28 games during the regular season.
“The time I spent at TMU has prepared me for this opportunity in many ways,” said Bollers. “Duco, Finer and all the boys on the team really helped me the last four years with finding my confidence, work ethic and putting in extra time to work on my craft.”
“The expectation from coaches is always to take steps forward individually and as a team,” said Tverberg. “With new faces, it’s interesting to see how they play so that you can better understand how to play against them and with them in a game.”
As camp begins, the Marlies have a strong foundation to build on. A solid coaching staff, depth in goaltending and a blend of veteran leadership and emerging prospects make the 2024-25 season an exciting one for fans.
“I’m looking forward to cheering the team on this year,” said long-time Leafs and Marlies fan Graham Nash. “Watching the Marlies is not only great hockey, but it’s fun seeing guys who could have a chance to crack the Leafs’ lineup at some point in their careers.”
Reporter, On the Record, Fall 2024.
