Andrej Meszaros participates in a drill at Bell Sensplex that had players skate through a series of pylons backwards, leap over the boards, run to the end of a bench, hop back onto the ice and repeat. Photo: T. Anderson/OSHC

by Todd Anderson

Although they played a big part in the success of the Ottawa Senators last season, Andrej Meszaros and Patrick Eaves find themselves back at their second development camp.

"It's great because I'm still young and I can improve myself in everything," Meszaros says. "I like being here to meet all the new guys. I like the workouts and Randy (Lee, Senators strength and conditioning coach) and his staff are great. The know what they're talking about and know what's best for us."

Eaves agrees that the development camp staff make the workouts very worthwhile.

"They do such a good job. You can hurt yourself if you're not training correctly. They show us how to do things right. Having these guys is good for the organization. This is a good way to get ready for our main camp."

While hard work is involved, a little fun is also mixed into the camp. Eaves is looking forward to the paintball match scheduled for Monday.

"I'm going to get everyone. I'll probably shoot myself a couple of times, too."

Last season in 58 games in Ottawa, Eaves scored 20 goals and 29 points. Meszaros scored 10 goals and 39 points in 82 games.