Central Plains Capitals' goaltender Elyse Denbow will be training with the best players in Manitoba later this month.

The 15-year-old was invited to Team Manitoba's U16 Top 40 Prospect Camp, and she says this will be her first time at an event of this calibre. She outlines the skills she hopes to display in front of the provincial coaches.

"I want to show confidence in net. That's a big thing being a goaltender," Denbow explains. "I also want to show my good attitude and sportsmanship, on and off the ice."

The Plumas native had a 9-7-1 record last season with a 0.910 save percentage for the U18 AAA Capitals sharing the starting role with Anika Moroz. Being the youngest player on the squad last season, she believes this gives her a leg up against some of the girls her age.

"I think playing with the older girls definitely helped me become stronger and made me always try to play at my best," Denbow continues. "With this, I obviously want to be one of the top goaltenders, and I think playing with the older ones has helped me always try to push myself and be more confident."

The camp is set for July 22-24 in Winnipeg, and Denbow says it's going to be taking place at the same time as the U18 camp. The goalie notes she will definitely be taking some time to watch those girls and try to pick up some techniques to use in her own game.

Denbow has been making sure she is in the best shape leading up to the camp and says she's been on the ice multiple times a week in preparation.

"I couldn't imagine going into the camp after not being on the ice as much as I have," says Denbow. "My goalie coach has been helping me prepare even more for this. It's way better being able to be on the ice as much as I am."

Denbow is looking to learn as much as possible during her time with the best the province has to offer.

Related Stories