Behind the Ice: The Bootcamp That Shaped 'Off Campus'
When Amazon Prime Video decided to launch its new series 'Off Campus', the creative team knew authenticity on the ice would be crucial. To achieve that, the five lead actors — Belmont Cameli, Antonio Cipriano, Stephen Kalyn, Jalen Thomas Brooks and Vinny Iorio — were sent to a two‑week hockey bootcamp before cameras started rolling.
Under the watchful eye of New York Rangers defenseman Vinny Iorio, who served as the series’ stunt double for Garrett, the cast tackled everything from basic skating to full‑speed scrimmages. Iorio’s expertise helped the actors develop muscle memory that would later look convincing to NHL fans watching the show.
For Belmont Cameli, the experience was a steep learning curve. Having never laced up skates before, he described the first days as “a mix of wobbling on the rink and realizing how much there is to master.” The physical demands forced him to push past comfort zones, a transformation that shows on screen.
Stephen Kalyn entered the program with a solid foundation in hockey, but he still had to adapt his shooting hand. Because Iorio is left‑handed, Kalyn practiced shooting and checking left‑handed, a switch that added an extra layer of challenge but ultimately broadened his skill set.
Jalen Thomas Brooks and Antonio Cipriano also embraced the intensive schedule, noting that the camaraderie forged on the ice translated into stronger chemistry during the series’ most demanding scenes. Their preparation paid off, as viewers can now see the actors perform many of their own stunts with confidence.
'Off Campus' is now streaming worldwide on Prime Video, offering fans a behind‑the‑scenes look at the rigorous training that brought the sport to life. The series not only entertains but also highlights the dedication required to master a new athletic discipline for a role.