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***bluesfan55*** · 09-21-2024, 02:01 AM

The Anchorage Armada shocked most of the SMJHL with their regular season success (we do not talk about the playoffs), finishing second in the league with a squad many considered to be middle of the pack. One of the team's surprises was their almost all-rookie defense, which was anchored by studs Barcus Juneau and Deven Rappelyea. One of the more unsung contributors on that blueline was 14th overall pick Dieter Frühstück, whose style of play is a throwback to the days of old. Frühstück, who at 6'9", 275 pounds is a behemoth of a man, almost led the league in blocked shots, finishing second to Maine's Boofa Benson with 253 blocks. We caught up with the German rookie at the end of season media scrum to catch his thoughts on the season, and what he's looking forward to.

Q: How was the season, Dieter?
A: Good. Very good, in fact. The vibes around the team were great; everyone was super close and I think that rapport and camaraderie we had helped us overperform expectations for us this year. None of us thought we could finish this high up until we got on the ice - we realized we had something special going on, and we were rolling into the playoffs until that happened. As for me, I performed a lot better than I was hoping I would. I want to become more of a big hitter, but I pride myself on those shot blocks, and I really wanted to lead the league but I was happy to finish second.

Q: What drives you to play the way you do?
A: Defense always comes first! I'd rather sacrifice my body on a block than score a goal because it means that we're not giving anything up. I want my goalie to see me as a second goalie - the opposing offense needs to get past me before they can have a chance on net. I know most defensemen nowadays have some sort of offensive game but it doesn't matter to me. I'd rather do the job the position dictates before having a little offensive touch.

Q: What about the draft? Rumor is you're a highly regarded prospect.
A: I couldn't care less about where I go. I know my agent has represented numerous players (Mitchell van der Heijden, Sebastien Regazzoni) with close ties to the Hamilton Steelhawks, but I'll go anywhere as long as they want me and the locker room is close and tight-knit. Obviously I'd want to go to some places more than others but my mind is open. I genuinely do not care. I know most GMs would think I have a preference but I don't have one.

Q: What do you think will happen for Anchorage next season?
A: I think with the amount of talent returning, we need to make a deep run in the playoffs. We'll have one of the best rosters in the league. I think I'd be lying if I didn't say a run at the cup is possible. We'll have the talent to do so. It's up to us to capitalize on that.

That was all we were able to ask Frühstück. We wish him the best of luck in his career.