This is part two of a four part series of interviews taken with Hurricanes prospects after a practice on Thursday, July 10th. 
Zac Dalpe was selected by the Hurricanes in the 2nd round of this year's draft with the 45th overall pick. The Canes were very fortunate to get him at that point because he was rated as being one of the top 30 North American skaters by several scouts and draft services.
I was able to attend two skating sessions this week and Zac certainly looked sharp. He could very well end up being the hidden gem of the draft.
While waiting for another reporter to finish questioning Dalpe, I overheard the interviewer asking him about Ohio State. Knowing that Luke DeCock had just asked him about that same subject the previous day, I thought that I would start out my questioning with an attempt at some humor.
CC- Hi Zac, do you have a moment for a couple of questions?
ZD- Sure thing, go right ahead.
CC- I promise not to ask about Ohio State.
ZD- (laughter)
CC- Okay, I lied, who are you playing for next year?
ZD- (more laughter)
CC- No, seriously. What do you think of camp so far? What have you learned?
ZD- Well, I never realized before how long a day could be and how much could be done in one day! We have been busy from early in the morning until night and you get a feeling of what hard work really is and what it takes to get to the next level. We have learned a lot about conditioning and nutrition and things like that. The Hurricanes organization has been great. I have really enjoyed my time here and have learned a lot. It's also been great meeting the other guys.
CC- What do you consider to be your strengths and weaknesses?
ZD- I'm a hard-working, 2-way player who works hard on both sides of the ice. I want to continue to improve my strength and conditioning.
CC- What's been the highlight of your career so far?
ZD- Last year I played for a team in Penticton, British Columbia and we won the league championship. It was the first time that Penticton had won it in 24 years! It was really a huge deal there, it was just tremendous.
CC- Thanks very much Zac, and good luck to you.
ZD- Thank you.
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I came away from that interview with the feeling that Zac was one cool, confident customer. It didn't seem like he felt any pressure what-so-ever with the Ohio State versus Plymouth decision looming over his head. I have the feeling that he will definitely make the decision that is best for him, regardless of any pressure from either side.
He also seems to have a great sense of humor which will always serve him well.