The Minnesota Wild's newest star player, Thomas Vanek, was at the LumberYard Hockey and Sports Center in Stillwater last night to kick off two new hockey development programs.  Thomas is a partner in the LumberYard and has led the effort to bring the Mite Advantage and BUZZSAW AAA teams to the community.  To kick off the new programs, Thomas spent five hours at the rink skating, signing autographs, and taking pictures with kids.  With four on-ice sessions and roughly 30 kids per session, Thomas interacted with nearly every kid and provided individual, personalized feedback.  "Thomas has a passion for teaching the game and it certainly showed last night", stated Lee Erickson, GM of the LumberYard.  After the on-ice training sessions, each kid received at least 1 autograph and a picture with Thomas.   

The Vanek programs at the LumberYard are focused on teaching strong hockey fundamentals at a young age.  The Mite Advantage program is an in-season program where players participate alongside their association program (or as a stand alone option).  The program features 74 hours of training with both on and off ice activities as well as 3v3 games at the LumberYard.  The AAA BUZZSAW program is an all inclusive off season program including 3v3 games, professional led spring and fall training, AAA tournaments and a one week camp in July with Thomas on the ice.  Unlike many other AAA teams, the BUZZSAW program will not hold tryouts.  All interested players should sign up and will be guaranteed a spot on a team.  When the program kicks off next spring, each age group will have 2 teams and they will be grouped by like skill to foster better development.  Registration for both programs is open now at www.lumberyardsports.com.  Spots are expected to fill fast.