“Have to save the best until last, right?” asked head camp counselor Danny Wood about his final summer camp session coming up in Albert Lea.

Wood will return to town for a second year to run what is becoming a successful opportunity for kids to both learn and practice essential skills, along with developing a deeper love of the game of hockey. Even though there will be quite a few stops before the camp in Albert Lea, according to Wood, it was a “no-brainer” to make sure Maximum Stride returns to Albert Lea for a second year.

As captain of the Thunder in 2008 and 2009, Wood established himself as a truly dedicated individual to the town, going above and beyond to give back to the community both on and off the ice. The dates for this summer’s session in Albert Lea are set for Aug. 22-26. The camp has an age breakdown into two sessions to ensure that players get the best instruction for their age and skill set. Session one includes players ages 4-10 and runs from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Session two includes players ages 11-18 and runs from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Cost for the camp is $200 per player or $50 for individual days.

“Last year the camp was a huge success, and this year I want to make it even better,” Wood said. “I want the players to enjoy their time at the camp and come away from it feeling like it was a great learning experience.”

When camp counselors have a high focus on effectiveness of instruction like those associated with Maximum Stride, players get a good value for their time and parents really get a great value for their money. Deposits for the Albert Lea session are due by Aug. 15.

The camps are a way for players to develop their skills in a structured and fun environment. The camp will have a powerskating and puck handling emphasis for players and a technical focus for goalies. All of the instructors have played at the collegiate level or higher. During the camp, dry land and classroom sessions will be offered, giving advice and information to players in order to enhance their game performance. The Albert Lea camp has something to suit players of all ages, genders and skill levels.

In addition, Wood will be offering private and small group lessons at the arena throughout the rest of July. These are a great way to get hands-on coaching with the focus of each session being tailored to the needs of the player. The times are flexible with your schedule, which helps when the players are involved in other sports.

“I am excited to be coming back to Albert Lea to run another camp,” Wood said. “The people and kids have a special place in my heart after my time with the Thunder.”

Any inquiries can be directed to Wood at 507-384-1086 or emailed to maximumstridehockey@gmail.com. Be sure to check out the website for additional information at www.maximumstridehockey.com. Maximum Stride looks forward to another successful camp in Albert Lea.