Hockey alums new and old return to campus for Pro Camp at Munn

Former MSU hockey players skated around Munn Ice Arena again two weeks ago for the Spartan Hockey Pro Camp.

Newton

Assistant coach Tom Newton said the program helps keep the players connected to MSU.

“No. 1, it’s for (the players), to give them an opportunity to get back in shape, get some timing,” Newton said. “No. 2, it’s to keep them connected to the program so they still feel an important part of this, which they are.”

The camp featured seasoned veterans, such as Buffalo Sabres goaltender Ryan Miller and Edmonton Oilers center Shawn Horcoff — along with potential NHL newcomers Justin Abdelkader (Detroit Red Wings) and Bryan Lerg (Edmonton Oilers).

“Well it’s nice,” Horcoff said.

“I see a lot of old friends and people that I played with and even guys that I didn’t play with but are still part of the organization and part of the school. It’s a real good time. We come back have a lot fun with it and it’s nice to see old faces and talk about old times.”

Miller said the program is a good warmup before team camps start up again in a few weeks.

“It’s our first real test: five days in a row, two hours on the ice.” Miller said. “With some regimented drills you focus a little more on — for me balance on the ice — these guys can work on some passing.

“This week usually marks getting a little more serious and it’s about a month before training camp, so it’s about right.”