Baber relishes opportunity to face his hometown team

In the past, Sault Ste. Marie has produced plenty of hockey talent and in recent seasons, some have moved up to play in the Ontario Hockey League. 

Born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, 18-year-old Camaryn Baber is in his third season with the Saginaw Spirit after being selected in the third round of the 2017 OHL Draft.

After building experience and becoming more comfortable with the league and the city, Baber began to find his rhythm.

"Finding my rhythm was more off the ice (with things like) billets, new cities, and new schools," Baber said. "Just trying to get used to that was the biggest part for me"

Coming back to play on your home town ice is an unforgettable feeling for Baber.

"It's always fun playing at home, seeing familiar faces, friends, and family, while also being able to play on the rink the I grew up playing on is a pretty awesome feeling," Baber said.

The Sault holds a special place in Baber's heart and feels like it has moulded him.

"I think being a guy who has always stayed home and never moved away is a big reason why I am who I am," Baber said.

"I also think Soo Minor Hockey helped shape me into the athlete I am today," he added.

Being exposed to such a big stage can seem to be a little nerve-racking, especially when it's on your very own hometown ice.

Baber believes "just taking it as an experience" is the key to keeping composure when coming back home.

Among his favourite memories is coming right back home to the Sault, before the roaring crowds, contracts, and cameras.

"A memory I cherish most is probably winning the 2013 NOHA championship," Baber said. "Just being so young and winning it at home definitely stands out to me." 

Baber's next stop at the GFL Memorial Gardens will be Friday, March, 20 as the Spirit take on the Soo Greyhounds.