Blackhawks Rookie Camp, Episode IV

In a galaxy far far away there is hockey in July. Hockey filled with desire passion and the need to impress. You will find it for the last day of camp on Friday July 11 at 10:00 at the Edge in Bensonville. Be there or wait until the leaves turn until for more Blackhawk hockey.

I'm pleased to report that the player injured on Wednesday Simon Danis-Pepin was diagnosed with a strain and a neck contusion and released from the hospital. Good news indeed, he is not expected to return to camp however. Danis-Pepin is one player I would place on the short list to appear on the Hogs line up in October, this Maine Black Bear had an impressive camp previous to the injury.

Yesterdays game the White team had Joseph Palmer in goal, born and raised in the heart of Central New York, attending Ohio State Columbus as a communications major in his junior year. He is a player I was interested in observing and meeting. The goalie competition is tough in the camp this year, already Mike Brodour has been dropped from the roster. Joseph Palmer looks good, yesterday he appeared poised controlled and as one plain speaking observer concisely stated "did not have a case of the floppies". I got a chance to talk to Palmer when he was "cooling down" this thoughtful goalie made an important point. That rookie camps are not just about making the team, it is about comparing yourself to the other players, showing the coaches and staff the gains you have made in the last year. It's all about preparation for the next level and showing that your are ready or in the serious process of training for next level. Palmer looks good now, but the competition is steep, he will be stronger for another season in Columbus. Wherever Palmer is in net this season they will have a level headed nettie, lucky team.

Another player I wanted to watch was the Swedish defenceman Jonathan Carlsson. He is one pretty skater and yes, he is an aggressive guy. He has the endearing quality of protecting his goalie and reminds me of Nathyan Oystrick on the ice at times. If the Hawks don't bite I hope the Wolves will.



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