Neilson runs a training camp every summer in Orangeville, Canada

Nottingham Panthers coach Corey Neilson says nine of the city's ice-hockey players are impressing everyone at a dedicated training camp in Canada.

Callum Bowley, Sam Bullas, Matt Haywood, Robert Lachowicz, Steve Lee, Tom Norton, Tom Soar, Josh Ward and Will Weldon have all flown to the camp.

Neilson said: "I have been impressed by the players efforts and skill sets.

"Credit must go to previous coaching by the likes of Martin Ethridge, Matt Bradbury and Mike Urquart."

Neilson runs a training camp for youngsters every summer in his hometown of Orangeville.

For a second year in a row, a number of ice-hockey players from the Panthers, Nottingham Lions, and the Nottingham junior teams at the National Ice Centre, have flown out to North America to be part of the extensive training programme.

I haven't been disappointed yet by anyone and I hope the coming weeks are the same Panthers coach Corey Neilson

Neilson added: "I'm a big believer in hockey fundamental so we spent the first two weeks focusing on the basic skills that, for whatever reason, aren't hammered into players from an early age.

"The older lads like Lacho (Robert Lachowicz), Bullas, and Norton have the advantage of knowing what it's all about and Steve Lee already has a solid set of fundamental skills.

"The 16 and 17-year-olds, Bowley, Ward, Soar, and Weldon are surprisingly good, and I envisage them kitting up for the Panthers at some point during the season.

"Matt Haywood is a very solid player who most in Nottingham won't have on their radar yet, but looks like he may be a very usable player in the future.

"I haven't been disappointed yet by anyone and I hope the coming weeks are the same. I intend on cranking up the intensity a little next week."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version