FRESNO,CA - The Bulldogs Ice Hockey team returned to the ice this week in preparation for their upcoming 2009-2010 season. Bolstering their squad to 27 players the team is eager to make another run at a National Championship.

The increase of players brings added competition, but less stress, to a team that has in previous years been pushed to the brink by playoff time. “In the past, everyone basically cemented spots due to lack of bodies,” said returning defenseman Travis Bybee. “Not the case this year, everyone has to earn their own.” 

With the additional members the team also hopes to reduce their chances of injuries as the physical stress and punishment is shared by more than a few individuals.

Matthew Reynolds, a newcomer this year, is currently the only player sidelined by injury. Out with a broken leg, he is currently in the process of strengthening and rehabilitation, and hopes to be able to play by the first game.

Before lacing up their skates for their first full week back on the ice, the team used the prior weekend to engage in a team-building camping trip. “The team camping trip was purely a bonding trip in my opinion,” said Bybee.

“There was not a whole lot of worrying about the upcoming season, more of setting team standards, and bonding between new players and the vets,” said Bybee.

Echoing his teammate’s statement, Reynolds agreed it was a great bonding experience allowing him to get to know his fellow players really well. “They’re just a bunch of good guys,” said Reynolds.

He also mentioned that there were a few people who really stood out as leaders, although refrained from mentioning anyone by name. 

Even though their season does not officially begin until the end of the month, the Bulldogs will have a chance to play as a team in this weekend’s Alumni game.

This will be the first time the Bulldogs take the ice as a team, and though most players primarily expect it to be an enjoyable event, they are looking also forward to using this experience as a tool to help prepare them for their season opener.

“We have not had a chance to play together with our line mates yet, so that will be a big chance for us to work together and get a feel for how the new kids and new lines work together,” stated Bybee.

The game is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 at Gateway Ice Center. Immediately following the game, Alumni and current players will take part in a BBQ and the team will announce the 2009/2010 Team Captain and Assistant Captains.