Friday, June 22, 2007

James Van Riemsdyk Goes Second

James van Riemsdyk was selected by the Philadelphia Flyers at approximately 7:15 EST as the second overall pick of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.

James is now officially the highest ranked player to ever be recruited to the University of New Hampshire Men's Hockey Team.

Amidst wild speculation on the part of the commentators, James was excited but composed (if he stays with Philadelphia his home games would be approximately one half hour from where he grew up) and his definitive message of his plans to attend the University of New Hampshire in the fall of this year reiterated by the broadcasters. Many notes were made by various organizations but specially of note, was the Philadelphia Flyers' representative who said that they expected him in one or two years. Another broadcaster referenced the Whittemore Center ice surface as "Lake Whittemore" and made sure to point out the lack of high-caliber NHL players produced by our beloved Wildcats. To me this merely suggests the true entrance into the very upper echelon of collegiate hockey of the University of New Hampshire Men's Hockey Team. The same broadcaster speculated that James would need to work on his physical and grinding game, questioning if he would improve on such skills on the big sheet - others think he will be served well by playing at UNH. This of course says nothing as to James himself talking about improving his skating game while at UNH.

Congratulations James!

I'll be back tomorrow with a recap of other 'Cats taken in the draft.

Go 'Cats!

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