Broncos Draft Class First to Report to Camp

Training camp is underway for the Swift Current Broncos, with the team's 2014 WHL Bantam Draft selections starting things off with some orientation and on-ice sessions before the rest of the players report on Wednesday.

"It's good to see these young kids come in," said Broncos Coach and GM Mark Lamb. "They're all a little bit nervous, they really don't know what to expect, so that's why we have this orientation to get them up to speed. They get to know each other and all the other teammates before Wednesday, and then they get right into their teams and the fitness tests, so this is a really good deal now."

Lamb says having this orientation can be a positive experience for the young players, especially since the Broncos don't have a stand-alone rookie camp in the summer like some other WHL teams.

"It's very intimidating for these kids, usually for a lot of them, it's their first time away from home going to a different city," he added. "They get to bring their parents and get to know the other parents. It's not just about the player, it's about the whole family... We've had a lot of good feedback over the years since I've been here. We've asked the parents what they think about bringing the kids in and themselves a couple days earlier, and get them up to speed on what we do and how we do things, and it's always very positive."

Defenseman Dominic Schmiemann, the Broncos' first-round choice in the draft, says his first taste of the WHL life has been an unbelievable experience, and adds it's helpful to get the nerves out and meet the rest of the draft class before the main camp starts.

He adds he feels he's made some big strides as a player since being drafted.

"I've been working hard at it and working out every day and getting out on the ice lots," he added. "Going to Alberta Cup helped me progress lots because of the high competition there... it was such a great experience, playing against the top players in Alberta, you couldn't ask for anything better. You learn how to compete and work hard every time. You are so tired through that week, but you have to learn how to battle and work through it."

Despite being at camp, Schmiemann won't be able to play for the Broncos this season, but he wants to leave a lasting impression and learn from the experience.

"I want to leave a great lasting impression, work my hardest and be the best player that I can, and help the older guys that can't make the team get better as well," he added. "I can learn what to do and follow in their footsteps, and they can be my leaders and I can follow and do what they do next year."

The Broncos rookies will play in the first pre-season game next Tuesday in Moose Jaw.