Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League

Smith Attends Flames Development Camp

By Flin Flon Bombers

FORMER BOMBER ALEX SMTIH ATTENDED THE CALGARY FLAMES DEVELOPMENT CAMP AFTER SUCCESSFUL FIRST SEASON WITH MICHIGAN TECH.

Alex Smith (Edmonton, AB) had a great freshman season with the Michigan Tech Huskies NCAA’s men’s ice hockey program.

After a 20 point (7g, 13a) first year, the centreman finds himself in his first NHL Development Camp when he was invited to join 37 Calgary Flames prospects this past week.

“Calgary was the first team to contact me and it seemed like a great organization to get my introduction to pro hockey,” commented Smith from Calgary.  “The camp is a little different in that there’s a lot of emphasis on getting familiar with the organization, the Flames way of doing things and what it takes to get to the next level.  A lot of team building activities off the ice.”

Smith grabbed a scholarship to Michigan Tech this past season after an 84 point (32g, 52a) campaigned topped off with another 21 points (7g, 14a) in 16 playoff games helping the Bombers to their first SJHL final in over 20 years.  He is also the eighth Bombers in recent history to attend NHL Development Camps  joining Zane Kalemba, Michael Young, Cole Wilson, Carsen Chubak, Andrew Johnston, Jesse Mycan and Matt Weninger.

In camp with mostly CHL players, taking the CJHL Junior A route hasn’t handcuffed him compared to other Flame prospects.

“On the ice it’s great to be able to measure yourself against top players and some guys who’ve already started their careers,” added Smith.  “I felt comfortable competing at that level.”

Camp ends Friday with a team scrimmage after the four days.  Smith will look to take what he learned from the camp and look to continue success in his sophomore year at Michigan Tech.

“It didn’t feel too weird going to Flames camp, and in the long run, it was probably good to get away from home and out of my comfort zone,” said Smith an Edmonton native and lifelong Oiler Fan on suiting up for their provincial rivals.  “The Flames treat their players great and really make everyone feel a part of things.”

Alex Smith – @Smithers_10

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