Tigers stay sharp in practice as Jaden Schwartz looks on

CC captain William Rapuzzi is happy with the sustained intensity shown by the Tigers during their informal captain’s practices this September.

“I am really pleased with the tempo of the practices,” Rapuzzi said. “Sometimes things drop off toward the end. But this year, there has been no dip. The guys are focused.”

The six freshmen continue to impress and some of the returning players – especially sophomore wing  Charlie Taft, who skated with aggression, confidence and showed off an accurate shot – look stronger and sharper as well. Taft converted a beautiful one-timer by the left post on a pass from behind the net from Rylan Schwartz during one drill. Scott Winkler snapped off a memorable tough-angle shot to score high glove side and Andrew Hamburg skated well and created opportunities for his linemates during drills.

Former Tiger Jaden Schwartz is visiting his former teammates and his brother Rylan this week due to the NHL lockout and the resulting gap in his schedule until AHL training camp starts Sept. 28. He watched Thursday’s practice.

“Once the season started I knew it would be hard to find the time to visit,” Schwartz said. “It’s great to see the guys on the team.”

Schwartz is looking forward to playing for the Peoria Rivermen where he can continue to play and improve his game against top professionals.

“A lot of superstars played in the AHL,” Schwartz said. “You can get a lot better playing in that league.”

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