When did you first learn how to skate?
I was about 3 years old; my parents put me in a figure skating class first to learn skating techniques and basics. My two older brothers also started this way. Then we were put into little leagues and went through the minor league system.
Do you have any brothers or sisters that are interested in hockey or that play hockey?
My oldest brother, who is now 27, was drafted in 1992 by Hartford Whalers. He played 50 games in the NHL and then went on to the Orlando Solar Bears. He lost one of his eyes while playing there, but he came back and kept playing. He went to the WCHL and won the championship with Tacoma. After that he retired and moved to Calgary. Now he is part of an investment group. He led the way and then my brother Ryan, (who is in the NHL and plays for the Edmonton Oilers) and now it is my turn.
Has your family been able to watch you play as a Tiger Shark?
Not yet, but they are coming down this weekend to watch me.
What do you like to do when you are not playing hockey?
Just take it easy. Either doing lots of things or relaxing. I like to play golf, the guitar, and during off-season I like to go to our lakeside cabin in B.C. There, I relax and work out and get ready for next season.
Does having a brother in the NHL put a lot of pressure on you?
No I have never felt pressure. I just use it as an incentive to work hard. During the summer, we work out together and he tells me what I need to do. I watch him and try to go just as hard as he does, and do the same things that he does. It makes you want to keep playing and never give up.
Who is your favorite NHL player?
Doug Weight. I have seen him play a lot and I know him. I know his character and personality. The way he handles the puck is great, sweet hands.
What is your favorite NHL team?
Edmonton, of course.
What kind of music do you listen to?
Pearl Jam and really any music on the radio.
When you scored your first professional goal, tell us about the feeling you had and what you did to celebrate?
It was in Jackson and on the power play. The puck came right to me in front of an open net and I put it in. You don't want to keep thinking about that one goal but concentrate on getting more.
You have scored many more goals since that first one, what has contributed to that?
You always want to be scoring more. I am not the goal scoring type; I am more of a role player. I just go to the net and try to cause havoc. Hopefully you will get a break, but when you get a goal it helps the team and keeps your confidence up. I just have to keep plugging away.
Who is the main person to give you advice when you have trouble with your game?
My parents or my brothers. I can always call them up and tell them I don't feel comfortable with this, am I doing this wrong, what can I do here? They always have something to say that helps and even when things are going well they still seem to have a lot to say.