Mix of Veterans and Rookies for New Campaign

Press Release

The Waterloo Black Hawks revealed their 25-player 2011-2012 preseason protected list Monday.

The organization will evaluate players listed on the preseason roster as they vie for a spot on the team in preparation for the 50th season of hockey in Waterloo.  A number of additional skaters from the Black Hawks’ affiliate list will also have an opportunity to compete for a place on the 2011-2012 roster this fall.

“This is an exciting time of year,” said Hawks Head Coach P.K. O’Handley.  “The players, coaches, and (hopefully) the fans are anxious to get going.  There will be ice at Young Arena in just a couple of weeks.”
Newcomers include National Hockey League prospects Tony Cameranesi and Ed Wittchow, both selected during the NHL Draft in late June.  Taylor Cammarata, Waterloo’s top pick in the USHL Futures Draft, is currently on the Hawks’ active roster.  NCAA recruits Matias Cleland and Mark Naclerio each will arrive in the Cedar Valley with Division I commitments.

Meanwhile, ten veterans from last season’s squad are expected to contribute again in 2011-2012.  Goaltender Jay Williams and three second-year defenseman offer stability on Waterloo’s half of the rink.  Tyler Zepeda, the Hawks’ team scoring leader in 2010-2011, returns on offense along with fellow third-year forward Jamie Hill.  After being Waterloo’s youngest forward last winter, Vince Hinostroza will enjoy veteran status.

Black Hawks coaches will also be watching several other players who have skated at Young Arena before.  Ryan Papa made a strong impression during affiliate appearances last season, scoring a memorable game-winning overtime goal on Thanksgiving against the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders.  Goalie Eamon McAdam and forward A.J. Michaelson also played for Waterloo under similar circumstances in 2010-2011.  Dan Carlson (Team USA), Peter Hand (Chicago Steel), and Joe Rehkamp (Fargo Force) each played against the Hawks last season.

For the complete preseason roster, please click here (requires Adobe Acrobat reader).
The Black Hawks 2011-2012 exhibition and regular season schedules will be released at a later date.  To learn more about the 2011-2012 Black Hawks, visit waterlooblackhawks.com throughout the remainder of the summer for periodic player profiles.  For information on season tickets or corporate marketing opportunities, contact the front office at (319) 232-3444.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)