Spring Camp Offers First Look at New Prospects
Published on May 29, 2013 under Western Hockey League (WHL)
Regina Pats News Release
Regina, Saskatchewan - On March 20th, the Regina Pats were granted a great opportunity when the Blue and White won the WHL Bantam Draft Lottery allowing the team to select second overall at the Draft on May 2nd. There was plenty of speculation as to who the Pats would select on Draft Day, and when it was all said and done, the Pats came away with who was widely regarded as the most offensively dynamic player available, Sherwood Park Flyers Captain Sam Steel.
According to Pats Head Scout Dale McMullin, it's that top end skill that prompted the Pats to take the AMBHL's Top Forward from 2012-13 season. "I think Sam Steel is just one of those types of players who's fun to watch," said McMullin. "He's a great skater with a high skill level, really sees the ice very, very well and seems to make everybody around him that much better. He's just fun to watch and a great kid as well."
This weekend's Spring Development Camp at the Cooperators Centre offers Pats fans their first chance to see the organization's new top prospect in action. For Steel, it's a chance to become familiar with the organization who selected him in the draft. "It's exciting to finally be a part of the Regina Pats for the first time," commented the young centre. "For the past week I've been extremely excited going into camp and I'm hoping I can do everything I can there."
For his first experience in a WHL setting, the Sherwood Park product is focused on keeping things simple. "I'm just going to go (to Regina) and play my game and not try to be anything I'm not. I guess (the Pats) picked me for a reason so I'm just going to play my game and fit in as much as I can."
After taking some time to become familiarized with the Pats, the prospects hit the ice Friday evening at 6 p.m. followed by 10 a.m. on ice sessions Saturday and Sunday morning. Practices at the Cooperators Centre are open to the public so fans can get a look at the fresh crop of Pats prospects.
Steel knows that as the second overall pick, expectations are high in Regina, but feels all he can do is stick to his style of play. "I guess it's there, you hear about it and you want to live up to those expectations which can be tough at times, but I'll just try and do my best."
Western Hockey League Stories from May 29, 2013
- Spring Camp Offers First Look at New Prospects - Regina Pats
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- Hockey Alberta to Host Alberta Hockey Summit - WHL
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.
