HCMAG's new rookie is from the SUNY- Oswego (NCAAIII), Jon WHITELAW, a 25 year old Canadian, who is 175cm tall and weighs 79 kg. He gives us his impressions on his transfer and ambitions with the club. This is a joint interview between Jon and Mark Jooris, player agent and friend of coach Tommie Hartogs who tells us more about this promising player. Jon will " volunteer " for the rest of this season, with the goal of getting a professional contract for next season.
Mark what can you tell us about this player?
• Mark: Jon is an excellent skater. He is a quick and effective comprehensive team player.
Jon, you play " volunteer " to HCMAG for the rest of the season , probably with a small job in addition to hockey. What are the reasons that convinced you to join the Penguins ?
• Mark: For Jon, this is an opportunity to showcase his talent. The youngster believes in his the potential and if he shows his value to the team, he will be rewarded next season by a contract. For him to prove his qualities on the ice.
• Jon: The reasons that led me to join the Penguins are quite simple: it's a great opportunity to not only play in one of the most competitive professional leagues in Europe, but also to play for a great organization what club Morzine -Avoriaz , Les Gets . I am confident in my ability to integrate into the team and I am determined to succeed in this club. I believe in my potential this season with the team, I hope this will lead to me being rewarded with a contract next season. For this year, I just want to do my best to prove my worth and to contribute as much as possible to the group.
What are your feelings joining HCMAG ?
• Jon : Plaing hockey in Europe has always been one of my dreams. I am very excited and grateful for the opportunity that was offered me to come here in Morzine -Avoriaz , Les Gets. The HCMAG is a club with a rich history and I am glad to be a part of today. I hope my skills will allow me to have an immediate impact and that I will be able to help the team succeed its goals for the rest of the season.
Can you tell us more about yourself and your young hockey career ?
• Jon : I'm from the University Oswego in New York, where I got my degree while playing for the NCAA university team. I have a rather strong character that allowed me to earn the respect of the staff and my teammates. This repore helped me to assume leadership roles in most of the teams that I 've played. I think my speed and intelligence of the game are my strongest attributes as a player. I'm looking forward to playing hockey for HCMAG and discover Magnus League: I hope that my speed and style will quickly adapt to the style of play in the league.
What do you know about France, French hockey and resorts of Morzine / Avoriaz - Les Gets ?
• Mark Andrew Hare talked a lot about us and Gêtoises-Morzinoises stations, which are two beautiful villages. In addition, the Magnus League continues to improve, the teams are competitive and attract many foreign players such as Jon .
• Jon : I know a little bit of France, my father was born in Metz. My grandfather lived in France and worked in the Canadian Air Force. He told me a lot of experience in this country, he was also a hockey player and very good skier. I am aware of the French cultural richness, I always enjoyed learning the history of France in my studies. Sporty side , the French hockey is becoming more competitive each year, the Magnus League and the national team have improved greatly in recent seasons . As I said earlier, I am very excited to play here , the style of play I like a lot . Andrew Hare also told me a lot of the village, its atmosphere and hospitality extended to him . We are former teammates of Oswego, he of course played a big role in my interest and desire to play for HCMAG . More importantly, he told me how it was nice to live here and as everyone was friendly. I am very happy to be part of the Morzino-Gêtoise community!
A word to the fans?
• Mark : I think they will appreciate the speed of Jon !
• Jon : I've heard about the passion of the fans and their support to the club, volunteers and supporters . I count the days before my arrival in Morzine and I hope the fans will continue to be the go all season !