USA Hockey has released the lineup for its upcoming Hlinka Gretzky Cup Selection Camp, slated to run from July 23 to 27 in St. Paul, Minnesota. The camp will bring together 36 of the nation’s most promising under‑18 forwards and defensemen, each hoping to earn a place on the eventual 23‑player roster that will represent the United States at the 2026 tournament.
A Deep Talent Pool
Among those candidates is Buffalo native Sawyer Schmidt, who began his OHL career with the Saginaw Spirit before making a splash with a first goal against the Sarnia Sting on February 13. Schmidt’s early professional experience also includes 33 games with the Buffalo Jr. Sabres, where he posted seven goals and 20 assists, and a stint with the U.S. National Team Development Program’s U17 squad.
The selection process is more than a simple tryout; it is a critical evaluation period during which coaches assess players in a high‑intensity environment. Schmidt’s journey from the junior ranks to this national stage underscores the depth of talent that USA Hockey hopes to showcase as it prepares for the upcoming Under‑18 Men’s Select Team.
A Competitive Field
The camp’s format pits prospects against one another in a series of scrimmages and skill sessions, creating a competitive atmosphere that mirrors the pressures of international play. With 36 athletes vying for just 23 spots, every shift carries weight, and the coaching staff will use the data gathered to fine‑tune the final roster.
Beyond individual performances, the camp serves as a reunion for many players who have previously faced off in junior leagues, fostering a sense of camaraderie that will later translate into team chemistry for the Edmonton event.
Road to Edmonton
The ultimate goal of the Selection Camp is to solidify the squad that will travel to Edmonton, Alberta, for the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, scheduled for August 3‑8. The Edmonton tournament will bring together the best under‑18 teams from around the world, and the U.S. roster will be the culmination of months of scouting, development, and now, this intensive camp.
For Schmidt and his fellow prospects, the camp represents both a validation of past achievements and a stepping stone toward future professional aspirations. As the final roster takes shape, the excitement among players, coaches, and fans alike continues to build.