Former Hobart College hockey player Matthew Wallace '11 began preseason camp with the Oklahoma City Barons of the American Hockey League today. Originally signed to play with Texas of the Central Hockey League, Wallace is one of four Brahmas who earned a spot in camp for the top minor league affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers.

According to a release on the team's website, Brahmas Head Coach Dan Wildfong is encouraged at the departure of his players.

“This is a great opportunity for these guys, and well deserved. With their hard work and determination they will be able to see hockey at the next level and know what it takes to get there,” said Wildfong.

One of three recipients of the 2011 Francis L. “Babe” Kraus '24 Memorial Award given to Hobart's senior Athlete of the Year, Wallace recorded 52 goals and 46 assists in 105 career games. He shares the Hobart career record for short-handed goals (8), and ranks second in career games played (105), seventh in career power-play goals (17), and eighth in career goals.

A 2011 AHCA first team All-American, Wallace scored a career-high 16 goals and handed out 12 assists as a senior. He was voted the 2011 ECAC West Player of the Year and the 2008 ECAC West Rookie of the Year. Wallace matched the Hobart game records for goals (3) and points (5) in a 6-5 win over then No. 11 Elmira on Nov. 19, 2010. He also received the 2011 Boswell Award as the team MVP and the team's Holden Award for sportsmanship, character, and leadership.

“Matt's track record here warrants an opportunity like this,” Hobart Head Coach Mark Taylor said. “He's our first All-American forward, our most decorated forward, and it's great to see an opportunity like this come his way. Matt's an individual that gives full effort, makes the full commitment and sacrifice. He's a quality person on and off the ice. Matt is going to be playing pro hockey and hopefully it will be in Oklahoma.”

Wallace spent the summer in his hometown of Skaneateles, skating two to three times per week with college and pro players. He also hit the weight room five times a week and worked in runs and bike rides to maintain his cardio fitness.

During a lunch break on his three-day drive to the Sooner State, Wallace admitted his chances with the Barons were tied to the Oilers' preseason camp and what players they assign to Oklahoma City.

“It's going to be very tough to stay in Oklahoma City,” Wallace said. “I'd consider myself very lucky if I'm asked to stay, but it will be a great experience to see what the next level is like.

“The Texas coach already told me he has big expectations for me, so my chances of catching on there are pretty good, but nothing's a given, I still have to do the work.”

Wallace graduated in May with a bachelor's degree in environmental studies. After his playing career is over, he plans to attend graduate school with an eye toward a career in environmental consulting.