Prospect Camp Part 2: Adam's notebook

Ever have those days that you’re running to stand still? Well, that would be me this week. That’s why I don’t like taking vacations. When I take a few days off, my work load increases to a point where I can’t catch up. Then there’s the house and now my writing. Too bad the writing is the only thing I actually WANT to do, but will have to squeeze into tight spaces.
So here is the balance of the Prospect Camp notes from our “Man at the Rink,” Adam from the NYIBC.


Because “My Friend” from Islander Mania (IM) seems to always be available for these things, he was surrounded by players. Martin, Trivino, and DiBenedetto were inquiring about the message board. They looked through different threads including the prospect section. They were told they could join and remain anonymous if they desired to read the boards after they leave camp. (*Note: It’s usually the younger guys who do read the boards religiously when they have time. But I’m still amazed at the number of NHL players who steer clear of them.)

Bailey came by later and took a look at IM too. He was thrilled to learn that he was on the front page and not the prospects section. Martin came back and ribbed Bailey about it, but said if Bailey makes the team he would be ok with the front page status. We showed Martin ITV because he had just been interviewed and was interested in what that was. When we were showing him ITV, Wrecker came over and watched a little. He will be trying to watch more later today.

We browsed the Net to the Mark Katic Fan Club site and viewed an interesting picture of Matt. You'll have to find that on your own. (*Damn Adam… Someone better find me a link!!)

Tyrell Mason:
Being his third year, he was able to come into camp knowing exactly what to expect. “It is nice to come in because it is fun atmosphere and a place to learn and absorb as much as possible from all the different events and meetings.” He always likes to meet the new guys coming in as well.

Asked what he likes most about Long Island, he answered “the weather.” They have gone to Yankee Stadium every year. He said even though he is not a baseball fan, since he is from northern British Columbia, it is like watching a movie to see a game there. And is always impressed with the atmosphere. The prospects do not get to go into Manhattan much during camp, but they did take a ferry on the East River one year to see the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge and the skyline.

His dad was a big Oilers fan back in the day, but was impressed and excited to hear about the fact that Tyrell was able to meet and talk to the Isles greats. (*Okay, who wouldn’t be?)

Since it's his third year, more fans recognize him and ask for autographs. He wanted to thank the fans for coming out and showing their support, and he hopes to be on Long Island soon!

Jared Spurgeon:

He said it is good to get on the ice and work out, but it is tiring after the whole days events. (*Take some vitamins kid, you’re going to need them.)

Trotts and Morrow have been giving the guys a lot of good advice and telling them stories. They brought their rings (11) and the gold medal one day. Jared said all the young guys were awed and inspired.

He said the paintball excursion with Newsday’s Jim Baumbach was fun but painful. Since he is not easily recognized, he didn’t have much interaction with the fans.I asked him what he thinks he needs to work on. Interestingly he said he wasn’t sure since he has not had his team's final meeting for the season to get feedback from his coaches. But of course he hopes to see everyone soon.

Dustin Kohn:
Dustin said he loves that the team is located (very near the city) as it is his favorite thing about the Long Island. (*Um, we’ll fix that.) He said the fans have treated him well during the week, and he loved hearing all the stories and being able to be in the presence of the cup rings, but was very intimated last year meeting Trotts for the first time.

Also a little more from Matt Martin.
I asked him what number he wears in Sarnia. He said 17 and tried to play it off as if it had no meaning, but he finally admitted it's his mother's birthday. He also wishes the camp was longer as he was having a great time.

The prospect camp is a great thing for fans and players alike. It brings us back to the ice, and the boys a little closer to their fan base. I think Martin is right… Maybe it should be a TWO week stint. But I’m just being greedy.

Thanks again to Adam for the great notes from camp. Check the NYIC message board too for some great photos from Carbons2K.
Next up for me… uh… work. DRAT!