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07/19/2006
Silvertips Alumni Report: Riley Armstrong
Everett Silvertips Press Release
Photo Credit: Katrinas Sports Photography |
Former Silvertips forward Riley Armstrong has one thing on his mind heading into his 3rd professional season in the American Hockey League. Get off to a good start. Riley wants that better start with the Worcester Sharks, the AHL affiliate of the San Jose Sharks and expects to have a breakout season. Silvertips play-by-play man Keith Gerhart had a chance to chat with Riley while on his Armstrong family summer vacation. And speaking of the Armstrong family, Riley's brother Colby Armstrong, of the Pittsburgh Penguins, also had some insight about the Pens' outlook for the 2006-2007 NHL season. So let's catch up with one of the fan favorites in Silvertips history, Number 9, Riley Armstrong.
Keith Gerhart: Riley, how would you sum up your sophomore season in the AHL?
Riley Armstrong: It wasn't the best season for me. I had a very tough season and did not have too much confidence. I was in Cleveland last season and part of a very frustrating losing streak that broke the record for the longest losing streak in the AHL. My ice time was limited at times but for the most part it was a frustrating season but I still have my head up and cannot wait for the next season.
KG: What was the difference for you from year one in the Sharks organization compared to year two?
RA: I think ice time was a difference. My first season in Cleveland, I was on the power play and penalty kill units, which helped me be successful in my rookie year. My second season I did not play much on the power play or penalty kill and it kind of affected my season. It is something I learned from and hopefully I will take that experience into Sharks training camp this summer.
KG: What type of things do you need to do to be successful for the Worcester Sharks in 2006-2007?
RA: For me I want to start fresh and have a good training camp. I think if I have a better training camp with the Sharks I might stay in camp longer and it should give me confidence for the rest of the season.
KG: The team in Cleveland you were with last season has moved to Worcester, Massachusetts. What is the reaction from fans in Worcester about having an AHL team back in that city?
RA: They already have sold over 5000 season tickets. Worcester is more of a college town and love hockey. I think it will be kind of an Everett situation where it will be fun to come to the rink everyday and play in front of big crowds like Everett. I would also like to say hello to all of the great fans in Everett and it was great seeing them support the Silvertips during the 2006 NHL Draft. It was fun to watch.
KG: This question is for Colby. What are your feelings about the Pittsburgh Penguins heading into the 2006-2007 season and what is it like to be on the same line with Sidney Crosby?
Colby Armstrong: I think the key for us is to have a really good start. The Eastern Conference will be competitive this year, so we need to have a fast start. We have some new faces in the front office and on the ice and it should be a good season. As far as playing with Sidney Crosby, it is pretty fun. He makes it easy for on the ice. We had good success last season and I think we can do the same this year as well.
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