What was your experience like playing for the Jr. Wolfpack and in the Atlantic Junior Hockey League?

My experience playing for Hartford in the Atlantic League is one that i will

cherish forever. In the two years I spent playing in the AJHL I learned that

hard work, dedication, and desire are three of the most important aspects in the

game of hockey. The Hockey was competitive night in and night out. There was

never a game that was not fun and exciting to be a part of. I had a dream to

play college hockey, the Jr. Wolf-pack was the team that helped me take that

dream and turn it into a reality.

How did playing for the Jr. Wolfpack help you prepare for college hockey at Castleton and the ECAC East?

Stepping on the ice as a freshman at Castleton, I felt confident; the Jr.

Wolf-pack has a mentality and a style of play that closely resembles college

hockey. At the college level, you play half the amount of games you would in a

junior season. Therefore, working out and being the biggest, fastest, and

strongest person you can be is extremely important. Each game at the college

level is played like a playoff game. I felt that even as a younger player at the

college level, Hartford prepared me for the tough ECAC-East schedule, and the

physical and mental battles I encounter each time I step on the ice.

What was your favirote memory about playing for the Jr. Wolfpack?

It is not possible to pick out one particular memory during my junior career.

It was the best three years of my life. I would have to say that my best memory

was my entire 08-09 season. Some of my closest friends in hockey came from that

team, the bonds I created with the guys will last forever. We worked hard and

had fun. There was never a dull moment with that crew.

What has been the key to your success at Castleton?

The key to my success at Castleton is easily summed up in one phrase, “Hard

Work”. Nothing in life is handed to you, but if you put in the effort and hard

work that goes with it, any goal can be attained. Whether that be on the ice or

in the classroom, hard work is what separates the good people from the great

people.

What advice can you give the current inspiring student athlete playing for the Jr. Wolfpack this season?

Some advice I would give to aspiring college hockey players is to work hard

and have fun. If you can do that, the sky is the limit. Listen to your

coaches; they have done it before. It takes a special player to keep rising up

through the ranks. Not everyone can do it, but if you work hard, have fun, and

listen you’re certainly not going to hurt your chances. Junior hockey is one of

the best times of your life, so don’t take it for granted.