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HOFF · 07-02-2013, 06:26 PM

The countdown to the Season 14 SMJHL Prospect Draft has begun, and the dreams of many youthful hockey stars will come true on draft night. Nothing different can be said of Barnabas Hoff. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Barnabas comes from a line of hockey players, but no Hoff before him has ever been this close to superstardom. We tracked him down during his vigorous training schedule to ask him a few questions about the offseason and the prospects of playing at the next level.

Whatâ€™s been your focus this offseason?

Iâ€™ve really been focused on my weight training. Getting stronger. I know to be successful at the next level I have to be me aggressive with my size. Iâ€™ve already made some pretty big strides in terms of my cardio work. Countless hours have been spent on the treadmill running, just trying to keep myself in game shape. Not only have I been working with 3 different personal trainers to perfect my workouts, Iâ€™ve also been seeing a Nutritionist. Gaining this much muscle in this little time, it takes more than weight training. My diet has taken over my life (Laughs). Protein, protein, protein. In factâ€¦.I need a steak right about now.

What is your top priority for S14?

Iâ€™m really just looking to get comfortable. Where ever I end up playing, I know Iâ€™m going to want to be spear heading the locker room on and off the ice. Growing up, playing hockey and different levels, one thing has been hammered into my head every step of the way has been TEAMWORK. Iâ€™ve been very blessed with some amazing coaches over time, but even more so, Iâ€™ve played along side some great guys. And developing a relationship with teammates can mean the difference between winning and losing. On the ice, I want to establish myself as one of the better scoring big men in the league. I would absolutely love to win a Four Star as well. Really would be a dream come true.

[Image: nash_swiss-4_3_rx404_c534x401.jpg]

Who did/do you look up to in the SHL?

There have been so many greats to strap on skates and play in this league. So many storied franchises and superstars. A couple names jump right out though. Ron Bolt and Jeff Dar. Both played Left Wing and thatâ€™s my position, so it was natural for me to gravitate to their games. Their both deservedly in the SHL Hall of Fame and I can only hope to get a chance to follow the path that they trail blazed.

What do you think your biggest weakness is?

I have to use my size to may advantage more than I do now. Itâ€™s never been a case of wanting to avoid contact, Iâ€™ve just been working so hard on my offensive skill set that I havenâ€™t put much time and effort into improving my physical game. These past couple of months, adding the muscle that I have added, and the work Iâ€™ve been putting in, I have already seen a major improvement in my board work.

Strength?

Iâ€™ve always been solid with the puck. I like the vulcanized rubber stuck to my tape. I feel like Iâ€™m at my best when the pucks in my possession. I see the ice pretty well, and Iâ€™ve been blessed with some great line mates in the past. Chemistry is a huge aspect for me. I need to feel comfortable with the guys next to me. Iâ€™m my best when I can anticipate where the defense is, as well as my teammates.

Goals short term and long?

I want to win a Four Star. Whoever ends up drafting me is going to get a very hungry and determined hockey player. Iâ€™m ready and willing to take on all challenges. This coming season Iâ€™m going to be looking to make a name for myself in a positive way, and Iâ€™m also expecting myself to lead a team to victory.

WORDS: 658
4 Pics

***Ace*** · 07-02-2013, 08:58 PM

Good read.

Too bad you're using Nash as a render.. yuck

HOFF · 07-02-2013, 09:44 PM

Renders don't mean shit, brah......

I happen to like him kinda anyway.

Ask · 07-02-2013, 11:32 PM

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