Joey Daccord's Olympic Dream: A Seattle Kraken Goalie's Journey to Team USA

Hello, Kraken fans! We're going to try something new for the upcoming season. We'll drop a blog summary of our Locked on Kraken and Women's Hockey Report Episodes on BlackrosieMedia.com.

In our first episode recap, Locked on Kraken host Erica L. Ayala discusses Joey Daccord's incredible birthday gift this year – an invitation to Team USA's Hockey Orientation Camp. This milestone marks a significant step in the Seattle Kraken goaltender's journey towards Olympic glory.

The 29-year-old netminder's selection among 44 players for the camp in Plymouth, Michigan, is a testament to his hard work and recent success.

Kraken general manager Jason Bottrill couldn't contain his excitement: "It's just amazing. It's very well deserved. It's great to see him being rewarded for going over to the World Championships and being part of a team that brings home gold," he told Seattle Kraken writer Geoff Baker.

Daccord's Path to International Success

Daccord's rise through the Kraken organization has been impressive. From his time with the Coachella Valley Firebirds and Charlotte Checkers to his current role in Seattle, he's consistently shown improvement and dedication.

His first taste of international play came during the World Championships in Denmark. Daccord described the experience as "insane," highlighting the passionate atmosphere.

"The international game is so much like soccer, with flags and drums and chanting and singing the whole time. It was such a cool experience,' Daccord told Baker. "To get the opportunity to wear the USA jersey for the first time... it was quite emotional for me and I was just very grateful to be there and to try to take it all in."

Olympic Hopefuls and Seattle Kraken Connections

While Daccord's selection is cause for celebration, it's worth noting that teammate Matty Beniers wasn't included in this round of invitations.

However, the camp roster boasts an impressive array of NHL talent, including:

- Forwards: Matthew Boldy, Jack Hughes, Kyle Connor, Jack Eichel

- Defensemen: Quinn Hughes, Adam Fox, Charlie McAvoy

- Goaltenders: Connor Hellebuyck, Jake Oettinger, Jeremy Swayman

Interestingly, all 23 players from the recent U.S. Men's National Team at the Four Nations Face-Off (except Matthew Tkachuk) will attend the camp.

What This Means for Seattle Kraken Fans

Joey Daccord's inclusion in the Team USA camp is a proud moment for the entire Kraken organization. It showcases the team's ability to develop talent and compete on the international stage.

As we look ahead to the Milano Cortina Olympics, Kraken fans have multiple reasons to be excited:

1. Joey Daccord has a real shot at making Team USA

2. Philipp Grubauer is already confirmed for Team Germany

3. The possibility of seeing Kraken players face off against each other in Olympic competition

Olymipc gold medalist Hilary Knight joins Locked on Kraken

BONUS: We will also get to cover any PWHL players representing their country! We've already interviewed Olympians Hilary Knight and Cayla Barnes

The Mental Game: Insights from Seattle Kraken Goalies

Both Daccord and fellow Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer recently shared their perspectives on the mental challenges of their position. Daccord emphasized the importance of mental preparation. "The mental game is the number one thing. We're just as frustrated as the fans are when things don't go our way. We're trying our best, working as hard as we can," he said in an interview with KING 5.

Meanwhile, Grubauer highlighted the value of finding balance off the ice.

"At the barn with my dog, just going on hikes, go fly fishing once in a while, stand in the river, just enjoy the remoteness, the nature. I think that always is pretty good for my head," he said in the KING 5 feature.

While the NHL season remains the primary focus, this international recognition adds an extra layer of excitement for Seattle hockey fans. It's a reminder of the world-class talent wearing Kraken blue and the bright future ahead for this young franchise.

Stay tuned to Locked on Kraken for continued coverage of Joey Daccord's Olympic journey and all things Seattle Kraken as we approach the new season!

EDITOR'S NOTE:

Although AI was used to summarize original and referenced content in this post, it was edited and posted by Black Rosie Media staff.