A closer look at each of the 20 teams participating at the 2021 World Selects Trophy.
The ‘20 in 20’ series takes a deep dive into each of the 20 teams competing at the historic World Selects Trophy in Nashville, Tennessee on June 28th. This 15U tournament is set to feature the best players in the age group from around the world with players from the U.S., Canada and Europe. Today, we take a closer look at North Shore Hockey Development Academy (NSHDA).
NORTH SHORE HOCKEY DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY
The purpose behind the NSHDA is to provide a training ground for elite hockey players to master their craft. The academy is intended for athletes who aspire to play at an elite level and are committed to the game of hockey. Between diverse camps and individual skill seasons, the NSHDA also provides the opportunity to play in high-level tournaments — such as the World Selects — throughout the spring and summer.
The NSHDA prides itself on working with homegrown talent, and thus, much of its 2006 roster for this tournament is based around the Chicagoland area. Nathan Schaefer is a big power forward who can score from anywhere on the ice and has an edge to his game. Chicago Fury forward Chris Vari competes hard at both ends of the ice and seems to find a way on the scoresheet often. Owen O’Rear is a speedy center from the Milwaukee Jr. Admirals who has an explosive first stride and sees the ice better than most at his position.
Defensively, the team will lean heavily on smooth skater Marty McCauley who can control the game from the back end. Aiden Jenks is a physical presence who can bear down and make it tough on opponents below the hash marks. While they all are capable of getting involved in the offense, Evan Simos is exceptional, jumping into the play and pushing the pace with some of the best in the age group.
Seven-season NHL pro and Illinois native Brett Lebda will be behind the bench for NSHDA. He is one of the four coaches that provide programming at North Shore.
WHH is providing exclusive coverage of the 2021 World Selects Trophy. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for the latest news regarding the international tournament later this month.
