CHICAGO – The Odessa Jackalopes concluded their main camp in Chicago yesterday after five days of evaluation and competition. The camp saw around 400 players and goalies take part including this summer’s draft picks, tenders and returning players from last year’s Jackalopes squad.
“Camp went really well,” said Jackalopes assistant coach Adam Phillips. “We had some good talent out there and the pace was fast. There was a few nice surprises and the returning players looked good. The all-star games Tuesday morning were very competitive and capped the camp off nicely.”
This was the first main camp for new Jackalopes head coach Jason Fortier and his new staff as they now face the task of assembling a competitive team to compete in the North American Hockey League South Division. Coach Fortier said he was pleased with the camp as a whole and he is both optimistic and excited for what lies ahead.
“It was a competitive camp,” Fortier said. “We felt there was a lot of talent out there. A lot of veterans came back and they seem poised for a big season, a lot of tenders were there as well and seem excited for a bright future.”
After main camp, the Jackalopes have invited a between 32 and 35 promising players to the Jackalopes training camp in order to compete for roster spots before the season starts in October. Phillips is excited for the competition ahead.
“We’re looking forward to training camp where players will be battling to earn their roster spot for the season.”
