Former Long Island Gull, and current Mercyhurt Lakers alternate captain, Matt Zay checks in with ligulls.org from the Chicago Blackhawks Prospect Camp

Saturday, July 12th & Sunday, July 13th

Saturday was basically just an orientation day with the Blackhawks.  We checked into our hotel, delivered our equipment to the rink and had our first meeting with all of the Blackhawks staff, which consisted of literally 40 men and women.

Going into an experience like this you're always curious as to who your roommate will be.  I saw that Air Force's Cole Gunner was attending so I figured we would be paired together, and we were.

Sunday was an early riser, with the day starting at 7:15am.  We then took a bus to the United Center, home of the Blackhawks, for physicals and fitness testing.  Being a free agent, the fitness testing was a breeze because we didn't have to do the VO2 or Windgate bike tests.  All the free agents basically sat around and got to know each other over a couple cups of coffee. So that was nice.

Then at around 12:30pm we shuttled over to the practice rink where we had our first skate.  The skate was run very well and was very demanding.  When the skate was over I got a chance to speak with former Stanley Cup champion, Mark Eaton and picked his brain for a minute too.

We'll see what the rest of the week entails for me at the ‘Hawks camp!  I’m excited to keep everyone posted!