Farabee, Wahlstrom earn rare call-ups to National Under-18 Team for IIHF U18 Worlds

By @MichaelCaples –

For most players with USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program, the two-year stay with the NTDP culminates with a trip to the IIHF Under-18 Men’s World Championship.

Sometimes, however, a player performs so well in his first season that he gets an early trip to the big show.

This year, two players from the Under-17 Team will be joining the Under-18 Team for the prestigious international tournament – forwards Joel Farabee and Oliver Wahlstrom.

The two forwards talked to MiHockey about the news.

“I was really excited,” Farabee said. “Not many people get to do it as an under-ager, so, I’m really excited to be with a great group of guys and head out there.”

“It felt awesome,” Wahlstrom said. “Really special. Very exciting. It’s a very lucky opportunity for me and I can’t wait.”

The two forwards have already gotten a taste of playing with the older NTDP group – Farabee has played in 13 games with the U18s, while Wahlstrom has played in 11.

“It’s a lot of fun,” Wahlstrom, a native of Quncy, Mass., said. “It’s so fun being a part of the team and just to see how they are now, it’s just a lot of fun.”

Call-ups to the NTDP U18 Team have even included games against NCAA competition. The two U17 forwards played in both games that the NTDP hosted against Arizona State.

“That was a bit of a challenge,” Farabee said. “Those guys are a lot older than normal USHL guys, but it was a good experience. It was something I learned a lot from.”

As far as nerves go for the international tournament – which takes place April 13-23 in Poprad and Spisska Nova Ves, Slovakia – the boys aren’t too concerned.

“Maybe a little nervous, but once I get out there and get a couple skates in me, I’ll be alright,” Farabee said.

The U.S. has won gold in six of the past eight tournaments, and they have come home with a medal in 13 straight appearances.

The trip will be another highlight of their first year; Wahlstrom said his time in Plymouth so far has been a great experience.

“I’ve loved it,” Wahlstrom said. “Ever since I’ve came here, my eyes have been wide open. It’s a special feeling to play for your country.”