Making the Cut 2009 opens at NYTEX Sports Centre

34 players register for an opportunity to earn one of two CHL training camp contracts

They came from as far as Canada and as close as McKinney, Texas and they came in great numbers. A record 34 players attended tonight's registration session for the 2009 Making the Cut prospect camp at the NYTEX Sports Centre.

Brahmas head coach Dan Wildfong was pleased with the turnout.

"It's a little nicer with 34 guys; we can actually run scrimmages instead of just practices so it'll be really good to see what they can do in a game," Wildfong said. "My expectations are pretty high."

Several local prospects including Nathan Page and Francois LeMay were joined by two members of last season's Colorado Outlaws Junior A hockey team who played at NYTEX against the Texas Renegades. Other attendees came from all parts of Canada as well as Chicago, Minneapolis, New York and San Diego.

Coleman Kamp, a defenseman from McKinney, Texas wants one of the training camp contracts and is ready for the challenge.

"I'll be fighting tooth and nail for it. I'm prepared for a long haul, definitely," Camp said. "I've been skating with a couple of the Brahmas for the past couple of weeks. I'm a little nervous but excited."

Ian Stewart, also a defenseman from Vancouver, British Columbia is looking forward to the competition.

"I expect high intensity on the ice; everyone's going to be battling," Stewart said. "They know there's only two spots available at the training camp with the Brahmas so everyone's going to be fighting for it."

With the Ray Miron President's Cup on display before them, the prospects were addressed by Brahmas coaches Dan Wildfong and Ron Vogel, owners Frank and Sal Trazzera, General Manager Mike Barack and Equipment Manager Philip Shipp.

After taking care of paperwork and getting an idea of what to expect during the camp, the players went around the table and introduced themselves and stated their positions and their strong points as hockey players. After the session ended, the players had some time to speak with the coaches and to each other before getting their equipment stowed and heading off to their housing for a good night's rest.

Angelo Serse, a standout forward who played with Stony Brook University (ECHA) last season is hoping to be one of the players to make the cut.

"Listening to the coach, it sounds like it's going to be pretty intense...I'm just hoping to get a shot at playing. I would love to play here. They have a great tradition here now for three years; I would love to help to continue that and help to defend that trophy."

Tomorrow's on ice sessions will be from 10 - 11:45am and from 1:45 - 3:15pm and the public is welcome to attend.

Photos from tonight's session can be found in the usual place. I will be shooting at all Saturday and Sunday sessions as well. Can't be there tomorrow (have to work).

Photo Credit: Robert Keith