 |
09/05/2008
Hard Working Froese Adjusts to the WHL
Everett Silvertips Press Release
Everett, WA - Throughout the preseason, Byron Froese has proven himself to be a reliable two-way forward who will work hard in the corners and behind the net while also adhering to his defensive responsibilities on the back end. In the physical Western Hockey League, forwards such as Froese are important towards building a team that will forecheck well and limit the opposition's shots. Still, it comes at a price for those involved:
"I love the game, I just love to play it, I've been banged up, but it doesn't stop me." says Froese, recalling his earlier days coming up through the ranks in Winkler, Manitoba.
Life for a WHL rookie can be overwhelming for the first several weeks. More importantly than the cultural adjustments of living in a different country and over a thousand miles from home, Froese must now deal with learning the offensive, defensive, and special teams gameplans, and incorporating them into how he plays, all at a higher level than he has experienced in the past.
"I want to get the systems down pat first, and then start getting more comfortable. I think if we all get the systems, we'll be dominant out there. I want us to get solid first, get sturdy, get used to everything." On how he expects to play in the regular season, Froese once again explains the role he expects to play this year. "I'm going to be concentrating on defense first, and then we'll go for offense after that."
Froese is not distracted by his NHL draft year or his opportunity of trying to impress the scouts. His feet are planted firmly on the ground, his focus is clear, and that type of cerebral player is often the one who can be counted upon in clutch situations. Still, no roster spot has been won yet, and Froese has been competing as hard as he can, all while forming the camraderie with his fellow teammates on this quick and youthful squad. From early indications, his heart and desire are right where they need to be, all while his hockey sense continues to improve.
"We're all competing for a job. It's a good battle, it's fun, we all enjoy it, and we're just going to keep on going. It's pretty fortunate here that they treat us like kings, and I love it."
|
|
 |
