USNTDP: Frankie Simonelli, Michael Mersch

I really need to start paying better attention to things. Apparently, last month (where was I?) usahockey.com had a feature on future Badger defenseman Frankie Simonelli, and 2 days ago (again, where was I?) they had a feature of future Badger forward Michael Mersch.

Simonelli and Mersch both played on the USNTDP U17 squad last season. I'd imagine that they'll be on the U18 squad this season? I think both players are slotted to join the Badgers in 2010 or 2011 -- I think Simonelli more likely in 2010 and Mersch more likely in 2011, simply based on the players lined up so far on D and F.