As junior hockey seasons wrap up across Alberta, many local players are reflecting on the pandemic-affected season.

Former Airdrie Xtreme and AC Avalance player, Brandon Machado, spent last season with the Okotoks Oilers of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL). While this was his second season with the team after many years in the WHL, it was one he won't forget.

The AJHL season was paused at times due to government restrictions and teams had to cancel or postpone games because of positive COVID-19 tests.

All that made for just eight games played by Machado and the team last season, all with no fans in the stands.

"It was definitely a frustrating, different season but at the same time, we knew that we were very fortunate because a lot guys throughout North America didn't have the opportunity to play this year," Machado said.

"It's definitely different with no fans but we're very fortunate to play and I'm grateful that we got any games in."

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