Mercyhurst Athletics

Mercyhurst College and Head Coach Tom McKinnon are proud to announce that Mark Loecher and Shane Vorndran have been selected to participate in the World University Games evaluation camp this weekend in Grand Rapids, MI. They will join 78 other players from around the nation, all of who will be competing for roster spots on the United States 2011 World University Games Team. 

Mark Loecher, a returning Junior was awarded the team's most improved player award at the end of last year's season. Mark's point production doubled from his freshman to sophomore season and he became an integral part of the team's first power play unit. Coach McKinnon commented, "Mark is one of our hardest workers. He understands what it takes to elevate his game at the next level. He trains relentlessly in the off-season and is completely focused on coming back each season with more to offer our team and program, which undoubtedly led to his overall improvement on the ice this past season."

Joining Loecher at the WUG tryouts is Freshman Shane Vorndran. Shane had an immediate impact as a freshman, leading the team in goals (32), points (56), power play goals (11) and short-handed goals (3). He was awarded the team's leading scorer, rookie of the year and most valuable player at the conclusion of the 2009-2010 season. Shane was also selected to represent Mercyhurst at the ACHA D1 All-Star Game where he was tracked as the league's fastest skater. McKinnon believes that Vorndran has already begun to make his mark within the league and envisions a future for Shane that will be steeped in responsibility and potential as he matures as a collegiate player.

McKinnon commented, "we are very proud to have Mark and Shane represent themselves and our program at the World University Games Evaluation Camp. There is no doubt that they are two of our most prepared athletes who possess the natural skill and intangible skill sets needed to be successful at this camp."

ABOUT THE WORLD UNIVERSITY GAMES EVALUATION CAMP

A tryout camp will take place the weekend of August 6-8 at Patterson Ice Center in Grand Rapids, MI. For the men, the camp is looking to have 4 teams of players, so approximately 80 players will be invited to the camp.

Players who make the final roster will represent the United States and compete at the 25th Winter World University Games in Erzurum, Turkey [January 27-February 6, 2011].  This will be the 6th consecutive time for the Men's Team and the 1st time for the Women's Team.