At this time of year, it's unusual to have 36 of the best female hockey players gathered in one location but the first-ever U.S. Women’s National Team Evaluation Camp opens today in Biddeford, Maine at the University of New England. It will be highlighted with three scrimmages beginning tonight at 6:30 p.m. ET.

The camp, taking place through Monday, is vital to Team USA evaluators and will help them scout and assess the status of elite players in the United States.  

“This camp is a new event that has a good blend of Olympians and younger players,” said Reagan Carey, director of women’s hockey at USA Hockey. “It gives us the opportunity to help guide the younger players with their training throughout the year while also providing a measuring stick against our most recent Olympians who must also maintain that high level of play and advance to even greater heights as an athlete.”

The level of international experience at the camp ranges significantly from multiple two-time Olympians to players with minimal or no experience representing America on the ice. The camp at the Harold Alfond Forum is another highly valuable tool to advance the women’s program and produce the highest level of competition and development among these players.

“The opportunity for us to gauge how a player is advancing in her development is critical to the overall growth of the player and the program,” added Carey.

It’s important to note that there are other players not attending camp for a variety of reasons yet they maintain their eligibility and will also be in the active player pool.

“This camp highlights the fact that our overall talent level continues to grow and the number of players who will push for spots on upcoming national teams is greater than ever,” said Carey. “It’s exciting to see and be a part of.”

Carey also noted the importance of the four-year development process, not just the year leading up to the Olympic Games.

“It’s a continuous process and the quad (four-year development) is underway. There will be other events and several valuable international tournaments with our goal being continuous improvement and winning gold whenever possible.”

After this morning’s practice, defenseman Emily Pfalzer noted the value of the camp to emerging players like herself.

“It’s important to have another opportunity to showcase yourself and your abilities. We’re all good players at this level but you have to put your best on display," she said. "At the same time, you can learn from some of the greatest players in the world. The atmosphere is great and everyone supports each other no matter where you play or where you come from.”

A less visible feature of the camp is the off-ice element that can help players advance on the ice. Mike Boyle, Sarah Cahill and Kevin Neeld are on hand to lead the strength and conditioning training that can make a substantial difference to overall performance.

According to Carey, the overall staff, on and off the ice, is equally important to the player’s growth process.

“Starting with our head coach (Ken Klee), this camp features a high-caliber staff designed to help our players perform at their best and continue their development as elite players.”

Players also receive instruction on nutrition to ensure that they are armed with awareness and the best methods possible to eating right and becoming the best athlete they can be.