Dozens of Yarmouth minor hockey players are learning from a pro this week.
The Ryan Graves Hockey School is being held at Mariners Centre.
The hometown boy and Pittsburgh Penguins defender has been hosting the camp since 2019.
Graves says he’s happy to give back to Yarmouth.
“I feel this is the way I’m able to do that, I’ve been really fortunate with the experiences that I’ve had and I want to create something good for kids in the area here. It’s been so fun and so rewarding over the years,” said Graves.
The players get on-ice time with Graves, as well as dry-land training and exercises.
The 29-year-old says hockey schools were some of his fondest memories as a kid.
“So if we can create that type of environment close to home, and have it be something these kids remember for a long-time, that’s the goal. It’s about having fun.”
Graves just finished his first season as a Penguin, an injury kept him out of the lineup late in the season.
He had three goals and 14 points in 70 games, and was a +10.
He says he’s feeling good and looking forward to getting back.
“Injuries happen, it’s part of the business but I feel good now. I’m mid-way through my summer routine and training, and just trying to get better each year.”
Graves is entering his seventh NHL season, he previously played for the New Jersey Devils and Colorado Avalanche.
