The eight-game bubble format in Winnipeg has some similarities to The Island Games last year but also some substantial differences. And Brennan is thrilled that a full Canadian Premier League campaign will take place. It means he and his players can lay a foundation and build upon it.

"We've got to make the most of this and grasp the moment," he says.

"But the good thing is we know we're going into a season now rather than a small tournament. That's the light at the end of our tunnel."

Last season, there was plenty of understandable praise for the squad's collection of raw youngsters and the calibre of their performances in Prince Edward Island. And Brennan is especially pleased they've kept that momentum going, despite such challenging circumstances. And though the squad's average age is just over 22 years, he's quick to point out the likes of Roger Thompson, Michael Petrasso, Jordan Wilson and Dominick Zator as experienced figures that are leading by example.

"I'm delighted with the young boys and their professionalism," he says.

"We've got experience with the older guys in the dressing room and they're leading the way. The young boys are buying into it and it's good to see they've got their heads on right. They all know they want to be footballers and they know this is their opportunity."

LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH THE GAFFER ON THE YORK UNITED FC KICKOFF SPECIAL - AN EXCLUSIVE HOUR-LONG SHOW HOSTED BY EOIN O'CALLAGHAN THAT AIRS SUNDAY, 27 JUNE AT 11AM ON SAUGA960AM.

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