Witzke First to Represent Bobcats at Select 17 Camp
Published on June 25, 2015 under North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Bismarck Bobcats News Release
WILLIAMSVILLE, NY - When the 2015 USA Hockey Boys' Select 17 Festival opens Saturday in New York, defenseman Johnny Witzke will be the first player to represent the Bismarck Bobcats at the annual player development camp.
"It's a great honor to be the first Bobcat to be invited to Select 17's," expressed Witzke, who turns 17 on July 2, "considering what a great program the Cats have built in Bismarck/Mandan over the last 18 years. "I plan to go to New York and represent our team in the best way possible."
Running Saturday through next Thursday, the camp features the top 16 and 17-year-old players from across the country.
Recent notable participants in the Select 17 Festival include projected top 2015 NHL Draft picks Kyle Connor (2013) and Brock Boeser (2014). 2014-15 NAHL All-Rookie goalie and regular season wins leader Matt Jurusik (Janesville) was also a standout at the 2014 Festival.
The prestigious camp is also highly scouted, with college and NHL teams evaluating the tournament for next year's draft.
"I'm excited yet also nervous," admitted Witzke, who was one of the youngest players in the North American Hockey League last season. "It's a very important camp, so of course there will be a little bit of nerves, but once I hit the ice I know I just need to compete the whole time and it will all work itself out."
As a member of Team Gold in the National Division, Witzke will play Saturday at 5:30pm, Sunday at 2:00pm and Monday at 6:00pm. Following Monday's games, the USA Hockey committee will trim the rosters down for an All-Star Game to follow.
Back in North Dakota, the Cats' busy offseason continues on Friday, July 17, as Main Camp returns to the VFW Sports Center, running through Sunday the 19th. As always, Main Camp is open to the public with free admission.
Season tickets are now on sale for 2015-16; if you want to beat the rush of 40,000 fans for next season, now is the time! Call 222-3300 today to reserve your seats.
North American Hockey League Stories from June 25, 2015
- Witzke First to Represent Bobcats at Select 17 Camp - Bismarck Bobcats
- 13th Annual NAHL Showcase Less Than Three Months Away - NAHL
- Prospect Report: Will Ulrich - Minnesota Magicians
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.
