At what age did you start playing hockey?

Ross: I started playing hockey when I was six years of age, in Aldergrove, tyke division, 1996 I think it was. I remember waving up to the stands, hi mom.

Did you play any other sports?

Ross: Yes I played football and baseball. In Aldergrove I played Atom and Peewee and Flag football, between ages 7 and 9.

Were you better at football or hockey?

Ross: I quit playing football as soon as I started playing rep-hockey. As soon as the rep-hockey practices stared that was it for football. I was never really into the football to much, being a smaller kid I was getting “rocked” quite often so the hockey was a lot better for me.

Other than hockey what would be your next favorite sport?

Ross: I like playing basketball, not so much organized basketball but with friends shooting hoops. I played in high school a bit, but I really didn’t enjoy playing on the team for the school, it just wasn’t for me. I enjoy the game recreationally.

What position do you play on the Kodiaks?

Ross: I play defense, usually on the left side. I can play D on either side but I prefer the left side.

What is your role for the Kodiaks this year?

Ross: To be a defensive defenseman, keep the puck out of our net, kill penalties.

Are you comfortable with your role?

Ross: I like playing it. I’m not a real flashy offensive guy, but I will take the points if I can get them.

The Kodiaks coaching staff, are they quite demanding? Do they try and get more from each of the players?

Ross: Yes, they expect guys to do better: they expect us to give our best every night. If some guys aren’t going, they don’t have a problem sitting them down, sending them a message that they have to pick it up or else they won’t be playing …especially when there are healthy scratches that are not getting a chance to play every game.

It’s frustrating when you’re scratched. No one ever thinks they should be so the next game they just to play your best and show the coaches that they made a mistake in scratching you.

As a player do you think you are playing to you full potential or is there always room for improvement?

Ross: I think there is always room for improvement in my game. I could always move the puck faster, see the ice better. I would like to get quicker.

Do you have any family members that also play hockey and if so what level?

Ross: Everyone in the family plays hockey. My sister Taylor plays Bantam Girls Hockey, my brother Logan plays Peewee for Aldergrove and my younger sister Natalie plays Atom Girls Hockey. My dad used to play in the men’s league when he had more time. When we were younger my dad was often on the ice with me and also with my younger brother.

What are your hockey plans for next year, or is it more school and / or work?

Ross: I haven’t really decided. I’m leaning more towards school because I got to start getting serious. If I play I would probably like to stay with the Kodiaks if I could.

What kind of career will you be preparing for with the course you are to be taking?

Ross: I would want to be in the fitness field somewhere, perhaps a personal trainer.

Please describe a typical week for the Kodiaks?

Ross: Monday we have practice, it’s more of an up-tempo, skating and get your legs moving practice, a get everyone going practice. Tuesday it will be all about how we are going to defend against the other teams system, how we going to attack their D and what their forward will try and do to us. We will on our power play and penalty killing. After the game day Wednesday, Thursday’s practice will be a good practice depending on how the game went: if we did pretty good then it will be a good practice, it won’t be too-too hard and if we didn’t do too well there will be a lot more skating. The coaches will be trying to work us hard as they want better effort and more from the team. Friday’s are at George Preston, the practices are different just because the rink is different. There will be a lot of drill to get the puck moving.

Do you work a job during the week also?

Ross: I work for my dad when I can. I was working full time for about two years until started playing for the Kodiaks. Now I work until around noon, then I go to practice. This week my dad’s working out of town, so I’m home all week, ha ha.

Is playing hockey cutting in to you ability to work and make money?

Ross: Oh yes, definitely.

Any injuries to report this season?

Ross: Just bumps and bruises nothing serious. I’ve been pretty lucky so far, haven’t been hit to hard or got hurt blocking shots. We do have some sore shoulders and sore knees in the Kodiaks dressing room. You either have to play through it or tell the coach you can’t go.

Thanks for your time Ross. Have a great game tonight.