We’re on a ferry from Victoria to Vancouver as I blog, I’m trying not to get too distracted with the ocean out the window beside me – was that a whale?? Clearly I’m hoping to see a whale.

Before I get into yesterday, I’d like to thank Shawnigan Lake School for hosting us. Everything from the dorms to the food and the rink was great.

Wednesday was all on ice early on and most of the drills were focused on the forwards, with very high compete levels. The one-on-one and two-on-two battle drills really take a lot out of you, but those battles are ones you have to win to be successful.

It was our last on-ice session and overall I’d say it was fun hitting the ice with the guys, but they really push you hard here trying to get the most out of you. I’ll continue working that way this season, while improving the explosiveness in my first three strides.

The skill level of this group surprised me, I’ll say that. Everyone at this camp had a right to be here; everyone added a different element of skill to the camp, and we truly all did get along like brothers.

I got to know Anton Cederholm, Jared McCann and Thatcher Demko the most (and I’m not just saying McCann and Demko because they walked by and told me to write that!). There have been some great friendships made and I’ll definitely stay in touch with the boys throughout the season.

Whale update: still none.

This afternoon we’re visiting BC Children’s Hospital before attending a Canucks season ticket member event at Rogers Arena. If you see me, come say hi, I’m excited to meet all of you!

Brock