By Kris Smith
McBean who came through the Dundee Stars youth system and spent the past two seasons playing with Dundee Comets, in the Scottish National League, is taking the next step in his development this year.
The 18-year-old centerman will be splitting his time between the Stars and Solway Sharks in the National Ice Hockey League Division 1, with his main ice time coming in Solway.
Johnny will train with the Stars and may be called up to play in the Elite League, but the club’s preseason training camp has been his first chance to play alongside pro hockey players and learn the game at the pro level.
So far, McBean has savoured every moment and is enjoying the challenges the step up has presented him.
He said: “The camp has been tough.
“The standard of the players is higher than I have ever trained with before, but being on the ice with athletes like that makes you a better player and pushes you to work harder to keep up with the rest of the team.”
Johnny also picked out a few things that have caught his eye whilst being around the team and the training facilities over the past couple days.
“There have been a few things that I have noticed, such as the professionalism the club has is nothing like I have been a part of before”, he added.
“It makes you want to work harder because you see how much effort everyone in the background is putting in.”
This weekend’s double header against Belfast Giants is not only the first test for the Stars squad under new Head Coach, Jeff Mason but also a chance for players like McBean to showcase their potential.
Johnny is certainly looking forward to the weekend but he also cannot wait to take in the full experience, he explained: “This weekend is a very good opportunity.
“Getting to travelling with the rest of the team on an away day will be a good experience and will make me hungrier to get more chances to be a part of the team on game days.
“Also getting the chance to dress would be surreal, especially in an arena like Belfast have.”
Secure your seat for this Sunday’s home opener against Belfast by purchasing your tickets HERE.
