(900 words, x2 Media bonus)

Now that the dust has settled and the draft has past us, players are getting settled into their new teams and getting to know management as we inch towards the start of the season. Today, we got someone to stop and chat with us about their experience during their big draft day, Face of The Franchise.

So, what was going through your mind leading up to and during the draft?

To be completely honest, I had no clue what to expect. I had just been doing my thing and trying to get to know people as much as possible. I had several discussions with different general managers around the league feeling me out, did a few interviews to show people who I was and the amount of interest I had in the league, and a few other "get to know me" type of events. I was feeling pretty good leading into the draft, seeing my name in a few mock drafts going in the first or second round. Obviously, I didn't end up going that high, and sorry for busting your mocks, people, but it was still a fun night regardless. I got to see a few people I know of go pretty high and it was nice to see them get their recognition. When I saw my name get called at 40th overall, I was very excited to go to Lethbridge. I have experience talking with JNH a long time ago, so its nice to be reunited.

Did it bother you going later than anticipated in the draft?

That's a tricky question. Yes and no if that makes sense. Yes because I am a competitive guy and always want to be the best I can be. I hoped teams would see the amount of work i'll put in and take a chance on me as soon as they could. But also no because I am just happy to be on a team, especially one that I know is going to take care of me. I know Lethbridge is going to be a good organization to be apart of for a long time. The fact that I've gone later will only make me work harder to prove all other gm's wrong for passing on me multiple times.

You've mentioned a couple times about how you think Lethbridge will be well as an organization. Could you elaborate?

Yeah, I mean I've only talked to the team and management for a day and they have already helped me out more than I could hope for. They've taken the time to teach me all sorts of things from what i should be working on in my training, what to focus on, how to improve everything about my skill level, going over certain equipment with me to see if its best for me, and even how to make some money. Aside from how they've treated me, they just seem very hands on with the team. I can tell they truly care about the success of not only the teams position in the standings, but of all the players that enter their organization. It feels like a great place to be.

Speaking of training, how do you plan to spend training camp? Anything specific you are working on?

After discussing it with management, i got the sense that they definitely want me to keep spending time perfecting my bread and butter in passing. I'm being brought in to create offense for this team, and the best way for me to do that is to create scoring chances for anyone on the team out on the ice. However, we did discuss all other things I should be working on. My skating needs some work, so I definitely plan on spending a few sessions on the ice really perfecting my stride to get that extra step on defenders. I also want to work more on my shooting. Its nice if I can create plays and all, but I need to be a scoring threat myself. Next, my defensive game. I've been working on that during camp primarily aside from passing, and I feel it is helping my game a bunch already. Being able to keep the puck out of the net is just as important as putting it in the net.

Last question; What goals do you have set for yourself this season? A certain amount of points in your head?

To be honest with you, I don't plan on getting caught up in that. For me, I just want to play my game and progress. Putting an idea of a certain amount of points or goals or games played is not the way I want to operate at in this early stage of my career. I feel when you get those types of numbers in your head, it can mess with you and you can make irrational decisions. I just want to take things naturally and improve everyday and become the best player I can and help my team win games. 

Well that's all we have for you, Face! We really appreciate you taking the time to meet with us today. Good luck this season, and we hope to have you back here soon!

Thanks guys, I appreciate it! See ya next time.

Player Thread           Update Thread

Dude is gonna be an absolute steal at 40 overall

Dude is gonna be an absolute steal at 40 overall

Thanks buddy! Good luck this season!

Player Thread           Update Thread

Dude is gonna be an absolute steal at 40 overall

Thanks buddy! Good luck this season!

You too!

Dude is gonna be an absolute steal at 40 overall

I agree.

Great article carp!

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