Glasgow has a pro ice hockey team and we interviewed the assistant captain

You learn something new every day


Didn’t know Glasgow had an ice hockey team?

Well, we do and it’s pretty damn good.

The Tab Glasgow decided to find out more by interviewing the Braehead Clan’s second captain, Jay Rosehill about moving from his native Canada for Glasgow and the Clan. The Clan are the biggest professional ice hockey team in Scotland.

Hi, Jay. What is your role in the Clan?

“As assistant captain, it’s my job to help out the younger players with any issues they’re having on or off the ice rink.”

What’s been your biggest injury?

Jay casually popped out his front teeth and said: “Yeah, that was a bad one – I got a puck to the mouth in my second game here in Glasgow, it was pretty bad – I had to get thirty stitches. I’ve been pretty lucky when it comes to injuries. I’ve had a broken leg, and broken my thumbs loads of times because I’m always fighting so much in the rink but that’s pretty much it, nothing too major.”

Ouch

What’s different about playing ice hockey in Glasgow, compared to other places you’ve played?

“The crowds are great here and I love all the chants you guys have – it’s great to hear when you’re on the ice. The Olympic-size ice rinks here are also way bigger than what I’m used to which is great for me because I’m a good skater, and find it harder to handle the puck when I’m confined to smaller spaces.”

What’s your favourite position to play?

“I’ve played forward for nine years – I would say it’s my favourite position. Recently I’ve been playing a bit more in defence, and I’m surprised at how much i’m enjoying it, but ultimately forward is my favourite.’

What’s your favourite thing about Glasgow?

“I love how all the guys take their shirts off here whenever there’s a little sunshine, I find that really funny. I also love all the old architecture here, where I’m from all the buildings are very new and modern, so I really appreciate the beautiful historical architecture.”

 

What advice do you have for younger players looking to have a career in ice hockey?

“Well, you gotta work hard. Try your best to get into the Dev League, although there’s not as many here for young players as there are in Canada so try your best to find one, work as hard as you can but most importantly enjoy your time skating because before you know it your time will be over.”

The Clan are coming to the end of their five-week stint on the road attending away games. The third of December marked the Clan’s “mid season re-launch” as they played in the Braehead arena facing the Dundee Stars. So far, in the Elite League the Clan are standing in eighth place ahead of the Edinburgh Capitals.

The Clan will play in the Challenge Cup Quarter Finals. The first date is set for the 8th of December, this Thursday, in the Braehead Arena against the Nottingham Panthers. Tickets for this game can be purchased by students for five pounds which includes transport to and from the arena.

You can call Kirstin on 07786136165 to book or email [email protected].