nivek_wahs
08-21-2008, 08:01 PM
From Greg Harder.... http://communities.canada.com/reginaleaderpost/blogs/slapshots/default.aspx
Bartley committed to Pats
Regina Pats fans can breathe a sigh of relief.
Defenceman Victor Bartley informed me earlier today that he's putting his pro aspirations on the backburner and is 100 per cent committed to being a member of the Pats this season.
You read it hear first.
The delay in his decision created considerable angst within the Pats' organization and their fanbase. Although he's an under-rated talent, Bartley's value is not under-estimated by the Pats, who know all too well the makeup of the team changes drastically without its all-situations No. 1 defenceman. GM Brent Parker has gone on the record to say Bartley is as good as any blueliner in the conference and among the top five in the league.
As for Bartley's mindset coming in, worry not.
Bartley emphasized repeatedly this afternoon that he's happy to be here and doesn't consider it a fallback situation. He was simply exploring his options, a process that eventually led him to conclude that Regina is the best place for him this season.
For more on what Bartley had to say, pick up a copy of Friday's Leader-Post or log on to Leaderpost.com.
Pats GM Brent Parker told me earlier this week that he wasn't concerned even if Bartley had to miss a few days of camp because he's in outstanding shape.
Turns out he didn't miss much.
Bartley's flight is slated to arrive at the Regina International Airport late this evening. He's expected to be in uniform Friday for the first full day of on-ice workouts. The team opened camp Thursday with a light schedule that included a parents meeting and two evening practices.
Business will pick up Friday with two morning practices and a pair of evening scrimmages.
Bartley committed to Pats
Regina Pats fans can breathe a sigh of relief.
Defenceman Victor Bartley informed me earlier today that he's putting his pro aspirations on the backburner and is 100 per cent committed to being a member of the Pats this season.
You read it hear first.
The delay in his decision created considerable angst within the Pats' organization and their fanbase. Although he's an under-rated talent, Bartley's value is not under-estimated by the Pats, who know all too well the makeup of the team changes drastically without its all-situations No. 1 defenceman. GM Brent Parker has gone on the record to say Bartley is as good as any blueliner in the conference and among the top five in the league.
As for Bartley's mindset coming in, worry not.
Bartley emphasized repeatedly this afternoon that he's happy to be here and doesn't consider it a fallback situation. He was simply exploring his options, a process that eventually led him to conclude that Regina is the best place for him this season.
For more on what Bartley had to say, pick up a copy of Friday's Leader-Post or log on to Leaderpost.com.
Pats GM Brent Parker told me earlier this week that he wasn't concerned even if Bartley had to miss a few days of camp because he's in outstanding shape.
Turns out he didn't miss much.
Bartley's flight is slated to arrive at the Regina International Airport late this evening. He's expected to be in uniform Friday for the first full day of on-ice workouts. The team opened camp Thursday with a light schedule that included a parents meeting and two evening practices.
Business will pick up Friday with two morning practices and a pair of evening scrimmages.