USA Select 17: Christian Coalition

We continue our look at Team Green's forwards with a review of four more players that participated at the Select 17 Festival. Today we highlight Jordy Christian of Minnesota who wasn't even born when his Uncle was part of the "Miracle On Ice" team that captured Americans hearts with their Gold Medal triumph in 1980. We also have notes on Andrew Starczewski of New York, Paul Kirtland of North Carolina and Mark Collins of Vermont.

Jordy Christian (2007), F

His uncle (1980) and grandfather (1960) won gold at the Olympics representing the USA (credit USA Hockey) .. defensively aware enough to replace a defender that pinches in .. will need to improve his puck control as he blew the odd scoring chance by not being able to cleanly handle the puck in close .. will support the defense by coming back hard .. gets a nice burst from his first few steps and overall skates well with the puck .. wore #12 .. USA Select 17 totals (6, 1-1-2-0).

Andrew Starczewski (2007), F

Northwood School forward displayed nice mobility with good acceleration .. the pressure he gets from his quickness helps force opponents in to mistakes .. will take a hit to make a play, but definitely likes to dish it out more .. has some sandpaper to his game .. only scored one goal at the Festival, however he showed good anticipation on jumping on a loose puck and then drilling it home .. given his size and skill, should be a player to watch come the 2007 NHL Entry Draft .. wore #14 .. USA Select 17 totals (6, 1-1-2-4).

Paul Kirtland (2006), F

Will be returning to Holderness School where he recorded 17 points (6-11-17) in 27 games last season .. has good hand-eye coordination .. his overall speed is fine, but it just doesn't stand out .. he displayed goal scorer's patience and accuracy on occasion, most notably on one play when he brought the puck from the corner and pulled the goalie from the post and then drilled a laser-like shot over the netminder's shoulder .. his wrist shot is dangerously accurate .. if given space he can thrive, however at 5'8" and 160lbs. he isn't generally able to create space or have much success in traffic .. wore #15 .. USA Select 17 totals (6, 2-1-3-6).

Mark Collins (2006), F

As a member of the Bellows Free Academy High School he scored 55 goals and had 40 helpers for 95 points in 61 games last season .. will need to learn that he can't do it all himself and take better advantage of his linemates .. very agile and closes the gaps on the forecheck .. doesn't hesitate to go in to traffic and will take or give a hit to make a play .. wrist shot doesn't overpower and he has a good, not great slap shot .. wore #16 .. USA Select 17 totals (6, 1-0-1-2).