After a great first week of training camp and preseason games on Aug. 31, and Sept. 1, we reached out to a few veterans and asked them their thoughts on camp, how they prepared themselves in the offseason, and what they’re excited for in the 2024-25 season.
Jackson Fuller – Goalie
“I’m really excited for this group to continue to grow as individuals and as a team. We brought a lot of good talent in, alongside a very good group of returners that the new guys can really rely on. We are very open with each other, and we emphasize communication, which we believe is a recipe for success. It’s been very exciting to see the boys competing hard against each other and getting themselves and each other better day in and day out.”
“Personally, this summer I really focused on being lighter on my feet which I found to help me be more in control of my body while also being faster. By doing this, I found it to be easier to beat passes on my feet whether it’s just a small push or a large push which ultimately puts myself in a better position to make a save.”
Bryce Johnson – Forward
“We had a great first week of camp as a team, but I feel like the forwards especially made a big step from Monday to Thursday. As the week went on, I saw the boys become more comfortable making east-west plays allowing us to attack as a group. There were times at the start of the week where the defense dominated the forwards and then I felt as a forward group, we adapted well and started to dominate the defense at times. Overall that dynamic of competition between the forwards and defense made for a very productive training camp.”
“As a returning player I’m excited for another shot at the Robertson cup. After a bitter ending last year in playoffs, I’m pumped to try and finish what we started. We’ve brought in a lot of good talent that will play well with our solid group of returning players. I’m excited to get to know all of the new guys and continue to have compete and have fun with my fellow returners. But most importantly I’m super pumped to play in front of our amazing fans!”
Francois DeVilliers
“Training camp was a week full of learning experiences. On the ice, we drilled heavy on zone entries, communication, angling, and pace. Competition was high but many mistakes were made in the beginning. Once everyone started to settle down and get their feet under them, there was room for more poise and creativity, which lead to more goals being scored and plays being made. Off the ice, the returners and new incoming players have gotten to know each other better, which has translated to on ice success. It was a good week overall, and I was impressed with how much better we got after only a few days.”
“Being off for several months after the season ends creates a whirlwind of emotions for the next coming season. However, my excitement for seeing my teammates, getting into the daily routine with them, and going through all the highs and lows with them is what I am looking forward to most. As a returner, being in a teaching role is important for rookie/team success , so I’m excited to make the new guys feel a part of our culture.”
“I focused a lot on developing my strength and stability. I also worked on my shot through lanes and finding ways to get the puck on net. Deception is a big part of my game, so I also touched a lot on that with my skills coaches.”
The team is looking good after its preseason games and the pressure is on as they prepare for the home opener against the US National Team – NTDP on Sept. 13 & 14 at the Outpost. Get your tickets at tickets.nmicewolves.com