Tryout Camp Impressions Are Two-Way Street
Published on June 14, 2011 under United States Hockey League (USHL)
Des Moines Buccaneers News Release
Urbandale (IA) As dozens of potential future Des Moines Buccaneers descend upon Central Iowa this week all come with the objective of impressing the team's coaching staff. Through on-ice play and off-ice composure they are all looking to get invited to training camp later in the summer.
However, it's not just the players who need to show off during the tryout camp period for it's also the organization that falls under a prospective player's (and their family's) judging eye. Much like a first-date, that job of impressing goes both ways for as much as its important for the Buccaneer hopefuls to show their best it's also up to the organization to put its finest foot forward.
"Tryout Camp is really a showcase for the organization" says head coach Regg Simon. "How well everything is conducted from check-in, to the opening meeting, to the meals being served by the booster club, it's all a part of showing the players and parents the professionalism of our organization and the USHL."
While players coming to the tryout camp no doubt want to make the team, there is nothing locking many of them into staying committed. For some teenagers, a move to Des Moines would be a move away from their hometowns for the first time in their lives. For others, playing for the Buccaneers' isn't their only option and with a number of different opinions in their ears it comes down to where they feel the most comfortable.
Holding the annual tryout camp at their home arena in Urbandale has been a yearly tradition for a number of seasons for the Des Moines Buccaneers. Since the facility maintains its ice surface through June it makes sense to host the tryout camp in Central Iowa and by holding it at the team's base camp it gives the organization a prime opportunity to showcase what players will experience during the actual season.
The Buccaneers' organization does its part to showcase itself through the effort of the team's Booster Club and assorted volunteers. Booster Club members assist with some player meals, while a number of volunteers help with transportation of some players who are without a ride. Many meals are provided at no cost and the Bucs' assist with finding quality, first-rate lodging for those trying out.
"Without the help of the booster and volunteers we couldn't hold the camp here to the extent we do" said Buccaneers Business Development Manager Brant Parriott.
Along with those who assist, the Buccaneers also benefit from a loyal fan base that despite the calendar reading June routinely come out and watch tryout camp sessions.
"For years, fans have loved coming out and watching the camp. You see new faces every year stop by for a few minutes to take a peek" said Parriott. "Then at the All-Star Games we'll have 500 to 600 fans show up which is still far less than our usual 3,000 but for June its unbelievable support."
"It's always a unique experience when players come to our camp" adds Simon. "When we have an All-Star Game and more fans show up for that than some players have ever played in front of, it really shows how well supported we are in the community."
All tryout camp sessions are free of charge for fans.
United States Hockey League Stories from June 14, 2011
- Coaching Staff Finalized For 2011-2012 Season - Indiana Ice
- Tryout Camp Impressions Are Two-Way Street - Des Moines Buccaneers
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
