Two Icehawks Invited To Red Wings Training Camp

Published on September 13, 2007 under International Hockey League 2 (IHL 2)
Port Huron Icehawks News Release


PORT HURON, Mich. - Two members of the Port Huron Icehawks roster will battle for roster spots with the Detroit Red Wings this weekend. Center Kris Vernarsky and forward Neil Clark have been invited to attend the Red Wings annual training camp this weekend at Centre Ice Arena in Traverse City.

The opportunity grew from the Icehawks relationship as an "AA" affiliate to the NHL team.

"This is great for our players and organization," Stan Drulia, head coach and general manager of the Icehawks said. "The Red Wings have allowed several of our players to showcase their skills at the games highest level. We hope our players can one day play in the NHL."

Vernarsky, 25, was selected in the second-round of the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs and played with the Boston Bruins, where he scored one goal in 17 games. He also played three seasons with the Providence Bruins of the American Hockey League. Last year, the Detroit native played with the Port Huron Flags and scored 22 points in 34 games after being acquired in a mid-season trade.

"It is a great opportunity for me to get my foot back in the door and I am going to take full advantage of it," Vernarsky said. "I still believe I can play at that level. I just want to go out and do the best I can."

Clark (6'2", 210 pounds), hails from Coquitlam, BC. He played at Iona College for the 2002-03 season before he transferred to Manhattanville College, where he played from 2003-06. Last year he was a member of the CHL Laredo Bucks and played in the championship series against the Colorado Eagles. In 21 playoff games, he scored 6 goals. He qualifies as a rookie in the International Hockey League because he has played in less than 60 professional games.

"The opportunity itself is unbelievable, to get to share the ice with players of that level," Clark said. "I will be able to compare my skills to the other guys and see what I need to work on. It will be an unreal experience to skate with the guys who I have idolized."

The camp runs Thursday, September 13 through September 19. The Red and White game is scheduled for Monday.

Two other members of the Icehawks will also be attending training camps with 'AAA' American Hockey League Affiliates this fall. Goaltender Marty Magers will attend camp with the Rockford IceHogs. Defenseman Andrew Davis will also participate in the camp for the Worchester Sharks.

The Icehawks open the 2007-08 season at Flint on October 19. The home opener is set for October 27 at McMorran Arena. Season tickets are now on sale by calling 1-800-700-8888. More information can be found at www.porthuronicehawks.com.

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International Hockey League 2 Stories from September 13, 2007


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