Off to a 3-1 start to begin the season, there are many things the Lacombe Generals should be thankful for heading into a busy weekend.

Timely scoring and reliable defense have been as strong as ever, but something that shouldn’t be overlooked is the strength of their goaltending.

Carrying most of the load so far this season is Calgary native Steven Stanford, who’s in his first full season with the Gens, after playing in one game at the Allan Cup last year.

He’s 2-1 in his three starts with a goals against average of 2 and a .932 save percentage.

Spending last year playing for the Dinos at the University of Calgary, Stanford was unsure how he would handle a smaller workload.

What’s made the transition a little easier for Stanford, is the group of guys he gets to play with.

Stanford will look to continue his hot play when the Gens host Stony Plain at the Gary Moe Auto Group Sportsplex on Friday.

Puck Drop is scheduled for 8.