The Dryden GM Ice Dogs have been waiting for the start of training camp since the dates were released, and that moment is finally here.
The Ice Dogs kick off day 1 of their training camp today, September 3, 2021 at the Dryden Memorial Arena (Dog Pound).
Head coach Kurt Walsten, and his staff are gearing up for this first step to the start of the season.
“For us we’re really excited, and I’m sure the players are really excited too, because for the last two years you haven't been able to play in the playoffs either. Anybody that is not excited to get back on the ice, I don’t know what’s going to get you excited,” said Walsten
“It’s one step closer to getting things back to I guess you say normal. Once you get the players on the ice and you’re getting out mentally you feel better, you’re giving this town something to watch once the home games are playing, you’re giving them another back to normal,” added Walsten
Many local and out-of-province players will be competing for a roster spot for the 2021-2022 season.
Walsten and his staff will be evaluating each player and be looking for certain aspects of their game.
“We’re looking for effort, and then we’re looking for second effort, so anybody that competes out there, they’re going to catch our attention in a good way. If you’re a player out there banging your stick, and shaking your head and lazy, well you’re going to catch our attention in the wrong way,” says Walsten
The first two days of training camp will consist of on and off-ice drills for players with individual goalie sessions both days. The camp will finish on Sunday, September 5, 2021, with an inter squad game.
Below is the full Ice Dogs training camp schedule:
Photo courtesy of Dryden GM Ice Dogs
