The new NCAA rules will mark the opening of Sammy Walker Hockey Camp soon

Growing up in ticks, spraying and peewees, I’ve been to many camps, Walker said. It was always those who had fun outdoor gear that stood out from me. That’s what the kids are sure to do at my camp.

The concept of the current student-athlete talking about my camp didn’t exist two months ago. But thanks to Walkers ’lifelong goal and some of the new NCAA rules that give college athletes more freedom, the first two Sammy Walker’s hockey camp sessions will be held this month in the Twin Cities. The camp nickname promises that off-ice fun like tag, dodgeball and kickball are part of the appeal.

At the end of the last college hockey season, the idea of ​​the current Gopher (or Husky, Beaver, or Bulldog, etc.) putting its name on camp was a no-no according to the NCAA’s extensive rulebook. Everything changed on June 30, 2021, when athletes first benefited from the use of their name, image, and likeness. That means players can make money with referrals while still playing college sports.

Walker acted quickly after the new rules came into force, assembling the camp, reserving ice time (2.5 hours each day for camp attendees), and helping Gophers teammates like Jack Perbix, Jonny Sorenson, and Jack LaFontaine on the ice.

While some have predicted that under the new rules, high-profile athletes, such as the Alabama quarterback or Duke’s starting point guard, could literally earn millions, acceptance offers sent to players like Walker and his teammates have so far been restrained.

I had a few people to reach, just less chances to post something, and they’ll give you something in return, Walker said. For me personally, I don’t see any point in being able to run my own camp, build my own brand, meet kids, and do so. That’s what I’ve always wanted to do.

Sammy Walker skates after campers in a game of sharks and minnows after rehearsals at Potulny Hockey Squirt Camp at Mariucci Arena on Monday. Tyler Schank / The Rink Live

Walker, who has also worked at dozens of hockey camps, will host his own version for three days starting Aug. 16 at Richfield Ice Arena. Another three-day Sammy Walker Hockey Camp will be held Aug. 23 at Cottage Grove Ice Arena. The Richfield camp, which Walker noted is already close to capacity, is for players ages 7-12. Cottage Grove, which is open to 7-14 year olds, currently has more openings. Detailed information and registration information can be found at sammywalkerhockey.com as well as in Walkers Instagram, Facebook and Twitter feeds.

Two summers ago, Walker could be found on the ice at the 3M Arena in Mariucci, and outside the leading fierce Dodgeball games. He worked at a camp run by former Gophers star Ryan Potulny. As Potulny no longer hosts his own camp, he gave his strongest approval to Walkers Camp.

I think hell is great. He works really well with children, said Potulny, who retired in 2018 after 126 NHL games. Sammys just got that bubbling personality. He can join anyone, and with the children he lowers their eyes to the level of. Some kids only do it for money, but Sammy is really connected to the kids and make sure they have fun.

Walker, who turned 22 in June, is the Gophers ’third-year captain from 2021-22 and is a two-time draft by Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning. The 2018 Mr.Hockey winner at Edina, he is also the Gophers ’most restored scorer.

In the near future, however, Walker will be a guy with a whistle that a bunch of young hockey boys and girls will look on and off in August.

It’s awesome to see people sign up, and the comments I’ve seen have been really exciting, said Walker, who admits he took action when the NCAA rule changed. I guess we never thought they went through it. So it was kind of at the last minute that I thought I’d try to do it this summer. I’m very excited about it, and I think the kids really like it.