The New Mexico Ice Wolves began their mini camp today, August 30. Day one consisted of a practice for each team in the afternoon and a game in the evening. With the NA3HL season officially underway, here are three takeaways from day one of mini camp in what will be a fun weekend at the Outpost.
Takeaway #1: The drive is high.
The Ice Wolves started mini camp knowing they have something to prove after another successful year but ultimately falling short of their end goal. Assistant coach Alex Gilbert can already see exactly what any coach would want, “This group came in hungry after last season knowing we have to take another step. these kids came in and surprised us since we last saw them and have left us no question about their work ethic, we can expect big improvements from this driven group.”
Takeaway #2: Bright eyes in Duke city.
With several new faces entering mini camp with hopes to make the team, the arena and facilities stole the show for the new comers. Assistant coach Alex Gilbert described this special feeling, “This weekend is always special, players come in from all over Albuquerque amazed at the facilities, many of which wouldn’t have known there was a hockey team in Albuquerque to start.”
Takeaway #3: Great pace and conditioning.
After a practice with each team and a game Head Coach Darren Banks was impressed with the conditioning and pace, “It was a good first day of camp, I’m looking forward to tomorrow. I was really impressed with the conditioning that everyone came in with and look forward to their preparation as well as their ability to sustain the same pace tomorrow.”
The Ice Wolves mini camp continues with games at 11am and 5pm on Saturday, both games are open and free to the public.
