Prospects Camp Recap with Andrew Gilbert is presented by Border Inn & Suites
Lloydminster, AB – The Lloydminster Bobcats hosted their annual Prospects Camp from
April 4 th – 6 th in Lloydminster at the Centennial Civic Centre, which will be the last camp
to ever be hosted there as the team prepares to move into the state-of-the-art Cenovus
Energy Hub this fall.
As prospects were invited from across Western Canada to the camp, Assistant General
Manager Andrew Gilbert oversees the weekend. Gilbert, who will be entering his 8th
season with the Lloydminster Bobcats recapped the weekend with a questionnaire.
How do you feel the weekend went overall?
It was a great weekend and we always enjoy the opportunity to bring in prospective
players and their families to showcase our program and the community of Lloydminster.
The camp was very competitive this year and we are excited about the talented players
that attended the weekend.
How many teams and prospects were at the camp?
We had 4 teams at camp with roughly 60 player attending.
Why does the organization run smaller number camps, it seems to be a trend here?
This is a focus Nigel Dube and myself have always had since we became involved with
the Bobcats. We believe that having a smaller camp comprised of players that we have
identified throughout the season will not only create a more competitive camp, but also
provides us with the opportunity to evaluate players in detail and meet with them
throughout the weekend.
What was the information given to the players and parents during the presentation on
Day 2?
We focused on a variety of topics throughout the presentation that included what we
look for in prospective players, how important community involvement is to our
organization, and navigating the changing landscape of junior hockey in Canada. We
use this camp as a recruiting tool and an opportunity to build relationships with future
players, so we really try to emphasize the benefits of playing in a great hockey
community like the Lloydminster.
Were there any players at the camp who were signed to Letter of Intents or signed after
camp?
We had multiple signed players attend the camp, which is always exciting for the fans to
see what the future looks like. Also, we did sign a player at camp and extended an offer
to another for the next season.
Many parents had questions or made comments after learning more about the program,
what were the highlights of their comments?
I think one of the biggest highlights for me was how excited and interested parents were
about our players being so active in the community. Parents really seemed the value the
importance we place on the character of our players and how important that piece is if
you want to be a Bobcat in the future. Also, it was a lot of fun to hear from parents and
players about their excitement for the new arena that will be ready to roll next season.
How do you feel the overall camp went, bringing on your 8th season with the
organization, what are you looking forward to this season?
Overall, it was a great weekend. This camp is often the first step in shaping our team for
next season, so it was great to get together with our staff and start the process. We
have an exciting group of recruits coming in for next season so I’m excited to watch
their development and growth. Also, I’m hopeful to build off the regular season success
we had this year and keep pursuing the ultimate prize of an AJHL Championship.
The Lloydminster Bobcats are set to move into the new Cenovus Energy Hub this fall! Be sure to catch all the action and get your season tickets today! Email admin@lloydminsterbobcats.ca to reserve your season tickets today!
