Warhounds Host Inaugural Youth Summer Camp

GAYLORD, Mich. — For five unforgettable days, the Otsego County Sportsplex was filled with the sounds of skates carving the ice, sticks battling along the boards, and the excitement that only comes from young athletes chasing their dreams.

The 2026 Northern Michigan Warhounds Youth Hockey Camp welcomed players ranging from first-year skaters to experienced high school athletes, creating an environment where everyone had the opportunity to learn, compete, and grow together.

Throughout the week, campers received more than 20 hours of on-ice instruction from Warhounds coaches and players. Every session focused on developing the complete hockey player, with drills emphasizing skating, puck control, shooting, passing, hockey IQ, defensive positioning, and game situations. As the week progressed, the focus shifted toward the less glamorous—but equally important—parts of the game, including winning battles in the corners, blocking shots, protecting teammates, and understanding that effort often matters more than talent.

Off the ice, campers participated in daily dryland training, team-building activities, and leadership discussions designed to teach lessons that extend well beyond hockey. Whether it was learning how to communicate with teammates, overcoming mistakes, or discovering the value of hard work, every activity reinforced the culture the Warhounds strive to build throughout the organization.

One of the highlights of the week was recognizing a Warhound of the Day, honoring players who best represented the values of the organization. These awards celebrated leadership, perseverance, coachability, positivity, and selflessness—qualities that often matter just as much as goals and assists.

The final day of camp brought everything together. Campers competed in scrimmages where they had the opportunity to showcase everything they had learned throughout the week before heading next door for a team bowling outing. The afternoon gave players of all ages a chance to relax, laugh, and build friendships that will continue long after camp ended.

While hockey was the focus, the greatest takeaway was the community that continues to grow around the Northern Michigan Warhounds. Families spent the week supporting one another from the stands, older players encouraged younger campers, and friendships formed between athletes from different towns, schools, and backgrounds.

"The skills are important, but what we're really trying to build is character," said Warhounds staff. "If these players leave camp loving the game more than when they arrived, believing in themselves, and understanding what it means to be a great teammate, then we've accomplished exactly what we set out to do."

The Northern Michigan Warhounds would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to every player, parent, volunteer, coach, and community member who helped make this year's camp such a success. We also appreciate everyone's patience regarding the delayed camp jerseys. While they weren't available during camp, every participant will receive theirs as soon as they arrive.

The future of hockey in Northern Michigan is bright. Watching so many young athletes work hard, encourage one another, and proudly represent the Pack made one thing clear—the next generation is already on its way.

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