Kyle Okposo

#9 - University of Minnesota


PREGAME

What’s your favorite pre-game drill?
Four guys at each blue line, skate around in the circle and give-and-go.

Do you listen to music before games to get ready?
Not really, although today I listened to a little bit of Craig David and Eagle Eye Cherry. But that’s rare for me.

So how do you mentally prepare for the game?
I just lose myself in my thoughts about the game, what I have to do and try to visualize a little bit.

Do you have any superstitions or rituals?
I have way too many to count. I’m trying to crack down on them. This year I’m trying to just go with the flow, so not really right now.

MAIN EVENT

Who’s your best friend in hockey?
I have a bunch of them now. If I had to pick one, it would be Johnny Case; he plays for Chicago. He’s a Hockey Canada boy. We’ve been friends since we went to (Shattuck-St. Mary’s), and we’re still close to this day.

Who was your favorite player growing up?
Growing up, it was always Peter Forsberg. I like the way he plays, and I love the Avs.

Who was your favorite coach?
Tom Ward of Shattuck-St. Mary’s.

What’s your favorite city to play in?
Faribault, Minn.

What would you do if you had two full days off during the season?
Well, I can’t play golf because it’s winter. I would probably rent about six movies and maybe get Chipotle a few times and just kind of hang out on the couch.

What sports do you play other than hockey?
Golf. Touch football when I can. I’m big into golf, though.

Is it important to play multiple sports?
Absolutely. It’s important to develop your athleticism, especially in high school. Playing a second sport or even a third is good.

Do you have any advice for young players?
Just keep working. When you’re not, somebody is working harder than you.

What’s the best advice you ever got?
The hungriest dog runs the fastest.

What’s your most memorable hockey moment?
Winning the two (USA Hockey) National Championships.

In the Bag

Skates: Bauer 195
Stick: Vapor 40 (right now)
Helmet:  Bauer 4500
Gloves:  Bauer Supremes

Issue: 
2008-01

Poll

Who is your favorite American player?
Auston Matthews
21%
Jason Robertson
6%
Tage Thompson
10%
Matthew Tkachuk
7%
Patrick Kane
23%
Other
32%
Total votes: 364