Schmidt Named to 2025 NTDP Evaluation Camp Roster

Forty-six of the top American hockey players born in 2009 have been invited to USA Hockey's National Team Development Program Evaluation Camp. Among those players is Buffalo Jr. Sabres player Sawyer Schmidt.  Schmidt, a member of the 15 Only team, capped off his season with 39 goals and 48 assists for a total of 87 points in 65 games.

“Sawyer is a fantastic player and an even better kid” Coach Polino said.  “His commitment to his craft takes him to the next level every time he touches the ice.  He was an integral part of our team’s success this season.”

Schmidt joins a distinct group of Jr. Sabres alumni who have attended the camp in the past.  

    2017: Case McCarthy

    2018: Luke Tuch

    2019: Michael Bevilacqua, Anthony Agostinelli

    2021: Gavin McCarthy, Quentin Musty

“We are incredibly proud of Sawyer Schmidt for earning a spot at USA Hockey's National Team Development Program Evaluation Camp,” Jr. Sabres President Pat Kaleta said. “This achievement is a testament to Sawyer’s dedication, hard work, and growth over the past year. As an organization, we are extremely honored to support him and wish him the best with this opportunity.”

“It’s such a honor to be selected to this camp and to represent Buffalo, the organization, my teammates, my coaches over the years, and my family.” - Sawyer Schmidt

The camp, which will help select the 2025-26 U.S. National Under-17 Team, will take place March 19-23, at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan. 

The 46 players, including 26 forwards, 16 defensemen and 4 goaltenders, will be divided into two teams during the evaluation, Team Larkin and Team McAvoy. The squads will participate in on-ice practices, off-ice training and a six-game schedule during their week in Michigan. 

For the full list of participants and details on the camp, please click the link below.

NTDP Announces 2025 Evaluation Camp Roster