ODESSA, TX – Last weekend the Jackalopes hosted their annual Pre-Draft Camp in Somerset, WI. The camp took place over the course of four days and featured over 80 participants, all of whom were seeking to make a name for themselves and earn an invitation to the Jackalopes Main Camp in Chicago beginning on July 23.
“Pre Draft camp went really well. There was some good talent on the ice and it was great to be back in the rinks,” said Jackalopes assistant coach Adam Phillips.
The Pre-Draft Camp is an important part of the offseason as it gives prospects the opportunity to showcase themselves in front of the Jackalopes coaching staff prior to the North American Hockey League Entry Draft and a team’s upcoming main camp soon after.
“We were able to interact with players we’ve had on our radar and also add new players to our list who impressed as we head into the draft,” Phillips said. “We’re looking forward to the draft and a competitive Main Camp in July.”
The Jackalopes coaching staff had an opportunity to invite players who they want to get a closer look at or, even potentially draft in the upcoming selection process, to attend Main Camp. All of this serves to give the Odessa the best opportunity to assemble a squad of talented individuals for the upcoming season. The Jackalopes are entering their tenth season as a NAHL franchise.
The 2020 North American Hockey League Draft is set for July 21. Each team will have a select number of picks based on the size of their protected list which includes tenders and veterans from last year’s roster. The Odessa Jackalopes are slated to have the 2nd overall pick in the draft, it will also be the first draft for new head coach Jason Fortier and the second for Phillips.
