Each week, DUBNetwork will be conducting interviews with people who are directly involved (or have been involved) in the Western Hockey League in some capacity. This includes players, prospects, alumni, team personnel and staff, radio personnel, etc. We will then proceed to post the transcript of the interview for our fans to read and enjoy, in an attempt to get to know these people a little better.
First up, I have interviewed Regina Pats forward Nick Henry. Nick is a 17-year-old right wing from Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, and is entering his rookie season in the WHL. He was kind enough to sit down and answer some questions for us recently. Enjoy!
Nick, you have made headlines in the last couple of weeks for opting out of your verbal commitment to Western Michigan and choosing to suit up for the Regina Pats instead. At what point in time did playing in the WHL become something that you began to strongly consider?
While I was playing for the Portage Terriers at Western Canada Cup my rights were traded to Regina. I think at that point my family started to talk and think about it.
You had the luxury of being in a position where you had the opportunity to play for either Andy Murray or John Paddock, two coaching legends, for the upcoming hockey season. How difficult of a decision was it to choose between Western Michigan and Regina, and what factors came into play while making your final decision?
I think the biggest thing for me was this year of hockey. I have to be graduated to go down to WMU and at this time I can finish my high school in Regina while playing for the Pats under John. My decision wasn’t made on the coaching because I would have loved to play for Andy Murray, but it just didn’t work out.
Last season you played in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League as a 16-year-old on a loaded Portage Terriers squad that won the MJHL championship. What are some things that will benefit you this year from playing Junior A as a 16-year-old, as opposed to Midget AAA, like most guys your age?
I think the biggest thing for me was being able to play with exceptional hockey players like Brad and Shawn Bowles. Practicing with them every day and seeing how hard they work day in and day out. If you want to become the best you have to play with the best.
Being from Portage La Prairie and having the Brandon Wheat Kings just down the highway, were you able to watch the WHL very often while growing up?
When I was a young kid my dad and I went to many Wheat King games. It was a pretty weird feeling playing against the Wheat Kings in preseason at Westman Place.
What does your summer training schedule look like? Do you train in Winnipeg in the off-season or do you train at home in Portage?
This summer I trained Monday-Friday in Winnipeg at the MTS Iceplex. I skated with Winnipeg Jets skill development coach Dave Cameron Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for an hour each day. All five days I worked out upstairs at the Iceplex at Focus Fitness with the Jets’ head trainer.
As previously mentioned, you were part of a championship team last season, so you understand what it feels like to be part of a winning atmosphere. The Pats have been building for this year and next year for the last three or four seasons and are expected to be one of the elite teams in the WHL this year. Do you get the sense around the city and in the locker room that they are close to taking that next step?
I think there are expectations from the city that’s for sure. This year I think we have the guys to do really well and try to win the Western League. It’s exciting to be a part of.
Aside from the obvious team goals of winning a championship this season, what personal goals have you set for yourself heading into the 2016–2017 campaign?
My personal goals this year are to be a good player on a good team; help produce offensively because that’s a big part of my game but also just contribute any way I can and help the Regina Pats win hockey games.
For those who have not seen you play yet, explain what type of player you are. Is there one particular NHL player you would compare your style of play to?
I am a playmaker who likes to cycle the puck down low with my linemates, but also I have a pretty good shot. Not really any NHLers I can think of.
In regards to your game, what are some areas that you feel you need to improve on in order to take that next step?
My biggest spot I can improve in is my skating. I need to have quicker and faster feet. Also I need my top-end speed to get faster.
Including yourself, I believe the Regina Pats have 16 prairie boys on their current roster (eight from Saskatchewan and eight from Manitoba). Did you have any friends on the team prior to going there who have made the transition a little easier?
I didn’t really have any real friends on Regina’s roster but I have played winter hockey versus most of them. Also, I have played summer hockey against guys like Jordan Hollett and Jake Leschyshyn.
Thank you for answering those questions Nick. Now for some rapid-fire questions. Ready?
I have read in past interviews that education is important to you and your family. If you were not a hockey player, what would you be?
I think in the end I would like to work in a job that keeps me close to sports, like an athletic therapist for a hockey team or even a baseball team.
Favorite hockey arena you have ever played in and why?
PCU Center at home in Portage. I had a lot of special moments in that arena last year and played many games there growing up.
Favorite hockey memory?
Winning the Turnbull Cup last year and advancing Western Canada Cup.
Favorite hobby outside of sports?
Baseball.
What type of music (or who) do you listen to before a game, and what is your go-to pregame meal?
I like my country music. Also, I like old rock ’n’ roll before games. Fettuccine Alfredo with chicken.
Thanks for your time, Nick, and good luck to yourself and the Regina Pats in the upcoming season.
