Continuing His Career at Home
Tommy Malkmus is heading back home as the newest member of the Bismarck Bobcats’ 2013-14 roster. In late May, the North Dakota native traveled to the neighboring state of Minnesota to try out for the NAHL team. With a successful showing, the former Rhino was welcomed into the franchise that hoisted the Robertson Cup in 2010.
To Rhino fans and the coaching staff, Malkmus’ success was anticipated. During the season, he became stronger, faster and thicker through the motivation and rigorous workouts. Utilizing other resources that the Training Center offers, the skating treadmill bettered his skating, drills helped his hand-eye coordination, and together, they led to unprecedented improvements in his game.
However, in addition to a great facility and staff, Malkmus’ discipline created his opportunity to play in the NAHL. Describing the right wing’s work ethic, Coach Cory Herman explained, “Tommy is the perfect example of a player that worked his way onto the NAHL team. He works hard at the Training Center, he works hard at practice and he works hard on the ice during games.” His self-motivation made him a versatile player with the ability to play on any line. In 38 regular season games with the Rhinos, Malkmus totaled 35 points, averaging nearly a point a game. Through all of his success, Tommy gives credit to the El Paso franchise, “Cory and the coaching staff helped tremendously. They helped me understand my role as a player and increase my confidence in my game.” He also noted that the support of El Paso fans motivated him during his tryout. Describing his experience in the Sun City as “awesome”, he explained that meeting good people and contributing to the community helped him become a better person.
Although Tommy mentioned that he would miss the fans, the staff, his teammates and his billet family, the Rocheforts, he added, “I’m really excited to play at home and have my family watching me.” Already in Bismarck, Tommy only has to drive a few miles when he reports for the first team meeting on August 25. With the offseason coming to a close, the nineteen year old is confident that El Paso has prepared him to excel in a higher league.
