Ambrosio eager for NHL draft
Colby Ambrosio has a lot of his plate these days.
The 18-year-old Welland native is just weeks into his freshman year at Boston College, where he is studying business and is a member of the Eagles hockey team.
Ambrosio is settling in nicely — he is on the ice almost every day and taking five courses — but this week he could be excused if he is a bit preoccupied.
Ambrosio was ranked 71st by National Hockey League Central Scouting in their final rankings for the 2020 draft which begins Tuesday with the first round. Rounds two through seven will be held Wednesday.
“Now that it’s a day or two away, it’s something I’m thinking about for sure,” Ambrosio said from his dorm room on campus. “I’m not nervous about it, just super excited because it’s been something I’ve been working towards my whole life.
“It’s nice to see that day is about to come.”
Ambrosio’s ranking went up from 82 at the midterm. He has not played since last spring with the Tri-City Storm of the United States Hockey League, where he collected 26 goals and 50 points in 48 games.
“I try my best not to pay attention to the rankings,” he said. “You never really know and you don’t want that to get into your head too much. Obviously, it’s nice to get recognized but I try to just focus on my game.”
Ambrosio isn’t concerned where he is chosen or what organization selects him.
“I just want to get picked,” he said. “I know what I’m capable of doing and I know where I feel I think I can get drafted. There are obviously doubters out there that feel differently but ultimately I’m just looking forward to the day and hopefully I’m lucky enough to get my name called.
“It’s just the beginning. It doesn’t matter where. The team will know they will get a workhorse.”
Ambrosio has had contact with several NHL organizations through video chats and phone calls.
“Some (questions) are straightforward, some kind of just get you thinking a bit, and some you don’t know why they are asking it or what the meaning is behind it,” he said. “Obviously there is a meaning but sometimes you have to take a minute and think what to say and how to answer this question. They ask some crazy questions just to see your reaction.”
Ambrosio is enjoying the experience at BC so far.
“Obviously times are different but it’s been awesome,” he said. “We have a great group of guys. This is the best program I’ve ever been a part of when it comes to the team aspects and everything that is involved with it with the trainers and coaching staff and all that stuff.”
Ambrosio said the school is taking the COVID-19 pandemic seriously. Players work out in separate groups, face shields and masks are worn on the ice, and masks are required on campus and while working out.
“It’s kind of what you have to put up with make this work,” he said. “All of us on the hockey team, we want to have a season, so whatever we can do to make that happen, we’re going to do it. We’re doing the best we can.”
Ambrosio said the team has been told to prepare for games to begin Nov. 20.
“That would be awesome,” he said. “The whole organization and the team, we’re going to make a good run this year. I’m really excited.”
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