Hoff Heads to Hidalgo
Austin Hoff had a busy weekend as he competed against seventy-five other players for a spot on one of four NAHL teams. The former Rhino’s tryout proved to be successful when he was added to the 2013-14 Rio Grande Killer Bees’ roster. Having known the Bees’ owner from his time at Wenatchee, Hoff had his eye on the Rio Grande Franchise. “It’s a top of the line organization and I’ve heard great things about the coach. I like their style of play and I feel that it’s good fit for me.”
After a summer of working out four to five times a week, skating another three to four days, traveling to a countless number of camps, and working with trainers, Hoff quickly adapted to a tryout camp that he described as “fast paced,” containing “skilled players.” He acknowledges that El Paso helped prepare him for the Illinois camp. “The Rhinos franchise is a top notch organization that is run like a USHL or an NAHL team. With daily workouts and great trainers, El Paso helps players become the best they can be.
I made a great decision to come there last year.” Hoff also recognizes Coach Cory Herman for instilling confidence in him and helping him discover his role on the team, especially at the start of playoffs. In six playoff games, the left winger had seven points after a successful regular season in which he had another 21 points in only 26 games. Herman commented on the former Rhino’s progress, “Throughout the season, Austin got bigger, stronger, and quicker and over the summer, he took it to another level. This is a very big deal for him and our program.”
With a good run at the Thorne Cup joined by the support of loyal fans and an accomplished team, Austin added, “I’ll miss hanging out with the boys in the apartments, going to the rink on game days, and skating out of the Rhino into a good atmosphere.” Although he’ll miss the Sun City, a promising team has Hoff optimistic about a good season. “I’m excited to showcase my abilities to colleges in addition to playing for a great team.” Already planning to extend his career, the El Paso Rhinos have taught Hoff more than hockey abilities and skills. He can now affirm that “if you stay on the grind every day and push yourself, everything will pan out.”
