Defenseman Joslin also shines

By Kim Dunbar

Ryan Vesce’s first year as a Worcester Shark is working out pretty well for him; the forward was named captain of the squad and was recently selected to the PlanetUSA AHL All-Star team.

“It’s definitely exciting,” said Vesce, who also played in the 2006 AHL All-Star Classic. “But being able to play it in Worcester is even more exciting.”

Vesce will be joined by Sharks teammate and defenseman Derek Joslin, who will suit up for the Canadian All-Star squad. “It’s always nice for the fans to have a player represent them, and it will be a nice treat for our fans to have a player on each team,” said Vesce, who insists playing against Joslin will be a good time. “We’ll probably even have a little gentlemen’s bet on the game,” he added.

Vesce is looking forward to the entire All-Star weekend. “The whole weekend is laid back and everyone is in good spirits. It’s just a fun atmosphere,” he said.

During the two-day event, fans will get an opportunity to see the future of the NHL during the main event and in the Skills Competition, which showcases the speed, agility and accuracy of the players. While Vesce won’t know what skills he will get to show off until the day of, he is hoping to compete in the target shooting category. (And with 12 goals and counting this season, Sharks fans know Vesce can surely hold his own when it comes to crashing the net).

Vesce is also hoping for a PlanetUSA win. But no matter what happens, the City of Worcester, its Sharks and the fans will all be winners during the AHL All-Star Classic weekend.