Vasko invited to Team Canada camp
Alexa Vasko is hoping for an instant replay when she attends a Team Canada Development Camp in Calgary next month.
The 20-year-old St. Catharines native has been invited to the women’s under-22 camp for the second straight year after making the roster last season.
“Last year, going to the same camp and then cracking the U-22 roster and making that jump helped boost my confidence even more,” Vasko said. “It helped me develop as a player and hopefully I can put my best foot forward at this camp as well.”
Vasko can’t wait to get started.
“It’s very exciting getting all this experience,” she said. “It helps me develop as a player and a person. I’m just trying to hone my skills and observe as much information as I can to make me a better player.”
Vasko feels playing for Team Canada is a means to an end.
“This is another stepping stone toward the senior team, whether it’s the senior world championships or Olympics in the next four years,” he said. “It’s another stepping stone towards a big goal of mine.”
Vasko was hopeful of another invite, but wasn’t taking anything for granted.
“You always have to have a good season and try to advance your skills. The scouts are always watching so you always have to put your best foot forward in the games,” she said. “Even if you weren’t on the roster last year, everyone is in the running, so it’s a tight race.”
Vasko is coming off a strong sophomore season at Mercyhurst University where she collected 12 goals in 33 games for the Lakers.
“I think in my freshman year I was a little bit nervous and timid but I think I held my own,” she said. “In my sophomore year I felt like I belonged there and put it all out there on the ice and thankfully it showed and hopefully I continue to grow from there.”
Vasko, who is majoring in exercise science, has been home since late May and is working out diligently on and off the ice to prepare.
“Every morning I’m at the gym at Brock and I skate as much as I can during the week, but you also need time to rest your mind and body to recover,” she said.
If Vasko cracks the roster, she will accompany the team to Lake Placid N.Y., to play a three-game series against the United States.
SUPPORT US
On the right side of our web site, you will notice a yellow SUPPORT US button.
We are asking anyone who finds value in our work and is able to financially help us to click on the button and contribute whatever amount you feel is appropriate and can afford. There is no set amount. Any amount is appreciated.
The funds collected will be used to enhance and offset the expenses of running the web site.
