Highlight #1 - Signing as a FA

After being left on the board during the SMJHL draft, Markus Tegernako had a few discussions with teams around the league who were looking to strengthen their netminding. Delighted of the attention, Markus signed with an up-and-coming team that he felt would have a great shot at silverware in the future, the Lethbridge Lions. He had a warm welcome in the locker room, and was able to find his mentor, an ex-Lion and now Toronto North Stars' starter, Harry Carpet.

Highlight #2 - First career game

It wasn't until the 22nd game that Markus earned his first career start, which ended in a well-fought loss against the Anchorage Armada. His nerves showed as he had a few miscues, but he felt confident that he could show his coach and the rest of the front office that they had made the right choice in signing him. After the game, he had a quick chat with fellow rookie and winning goalie Ian Venables, exchanging about the life of a starting goalie, and how they both adjusted to the tight scheduling in the SMJHL.

Highlight #3 - First career win

The very next game, it was time for Tegernako to show his true colors, as he earned his second start against the Montreal Militia. This time, he wouldn't miss his opportunity, and made 31 saves on 32 shots, en route to his first career win in the SMJHL. Not only that, but he was also selected first star of the game - he was elated! Markus allowed himself a bit of a celebration, taking a few players out in Montreal and enjoying the sights of the city. The pressure was off, and he could see himself succeeding in the big leagues.

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