Training Camp Starts Tuesday

The 2016-17 is about to begin as the Prep Boys will start with a training camp this week.  There is a lot of excitement around Dann Arena this season.  Not only has the building seen a few upgrades, the team is poised for a special season.  The work starts Tuesday.  Players will participate in on ice practices all week as well as meetings to acclimate them to their new team.  Thirteen players return from a strong 2015-16 team.  The home opener is around the corner with a 6:30pm faceoff on September 10 against cross town rival, the Buffalo Jr Sabres 18U.  Practices are free and open to the public.   

Tuesday 3:45 - 5:00p

Wednesday 5:00-6:00p

Thursday 3:45 - 5:00p

Friday 3:45 - 5:00p

We look forward to seeing everyone at the Dann sometime soon.

2016-17 Roster Preview: Returning Players Bring Experience

The 2016-17 edition of the Nichols Prep Boys’ Hockey Team is highlighted by 13 returning players from a successful team last season.  This experience should bode well for this year’s group.  At forward, senior co-captain Matt Gasuik (South Buffalo) returns for his third year on the team and should bring a level of leadership and understanding of the work that lays ahead.  Senior forwards Steve Senese (Niagara Falls, NY), Brandon Hausler (Mongomery, TX), Connor Zak (Amherst), and Charlie Carlson (Orchard Park) return for their second season and will be counted on for production.  Junior forwards Lucas Herrmann (Lancaster), Chris Morrison (Ridgefield, CT) and Cole Donhauser (Kenmore) will be key members of the success in their second season.  On defense, senior co-captain Tom Elia (Buffalo) brings leadership in his third season with the Big Green and his 8^th year with the school.  Another 8-year student is senior defenseman Jack Millar (Hamburg) who will compete in his second season on the Prep Team along with senior defenseman Zach Gannon (Amherst).  Another defenseman in his second season is junior Adam Hawkins (Morrisvile, NC).  These four will bring stability to the back end.  Junior goaltender Josh Graziano (Clarence) will be back for his second season after seeing time in 31 games last year. 

Three returners spent part of their summer at the USA Hockey Player Development Camp.  Cole Donhauser, Tom Elia, and Josh Graziano represented the NY District at the National Festival and each represented themselves, their families, and Nichols School hockey at the highest level.  

Check back soon for updates on the newcomers in 2016-17.

Development Camp Begins Next Week

Players from the Prep Team and former Nichols players will participate in our annual Development Camp held at Nichols from August 8-11. Development Coach Dave Smith as well as BarrySmith  (Chicago Blackhawks) will lead the 4 day camp designed to give players a jump start on the season with a focus on skills and skating. It's not only a great training opportunity for our players, but it's a great chance to re-connect with some former players. Camp runs from 6-8pm each night, and it is open to the public.