Kremer to stop pucks for Golden Gophers

The Bismarck Bobcats have announced that goaltender Jake Kremer has committed to the University of Minnesota (WCHA) for the 2008-09 season.

The Bobcats’ MVP this past season, Kremer fashioned a 17-24-5 record to compliment a .910 save percentage and a 3.30 goals-against average.

“Jake is a perfect example of a player who’s work ethic carried him to the next level,” said Bobcats head coach Byron Pool. “He works as hard as any player in any league.

“I’m real excited for Jake; I think he’ll make it real hard for the Gophers not to play him.”

Kremer, from Eden Prairie, Minn., led the league in saves (1,475). He also finished second in the NAHL in minutes played at 2,691:39.

“I grew up loving the Gophers and I watched them every time they were on TV, so this is a dream come true,” said Kremer, who turned 20 this month. “The university is great, it’s a tough school to get into and it’s an added bonus that it’s so close to home.

“I learned an important lesson this season: Someone is always watching,” he added.  “I practiced hard every day and Byron took note of that.  Without his help, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today.”

HAPPY CAMPERS: The Bobcats have started the building process for the 2008-09 season.

The first of four open tryout camps took place last weekend in Arvada, Colo., where 86 players were on display in front of the ‘Cats coaching staff looking for an invite back to the main camp in Bismarck.

Ten players were invited back to the main camp, along with two of the Bobcats’ tendered players that were on hand in Arvada.

Pool was pleased with the first of four open camps.

“We had a lot of talent in Arvada,” he said.  “It was real nice to see a handful of young players with a lot of potential show up on our radar.  All in all it was a great camp.”

The Bobcats keep moving forward with the next open tryout camp, which will be held in Trenton, Mich., from May 24-26.